Mid-America Prevention Technology Transfer Center

Colber Prosper a global advocate dedicated to advancing service-providing institutions through strategic planning, organizational leadership, and equity and inclusion. Passionate about democratic engagement, he has written on the decline of political involvement among college students. He teaches political science and ethics and, in his 2018 book No Entry: Examining the Power that Undermines our Full Potential, explores how political power perpetuates inequities. Ten years ago, he founded Prosper & Partners with the vision of helping people collaborate more effectively.   https://www.linkedin.com/in/colber-prosper-m-s-bb494033/ https://www.instagram.com/prospercolber/  https://www.facebook.com/colber.prosper   The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. Creating a Healthier Life: a guide published by SAMHSA is available free of charge and, offers a broad approach for things we can do - at our own pace, in our own time, and within our own abilities - that can help us feel better and live longer.   https://store.samhsa.gov/product/creating-healthier-life-step-step-guide-wellness/sma16-4958    Powering Potential for Impact is a Ted Talk delivered at Lynbrook High School and discusses how our potential, power and impact are connected and interrelated. Colber Prosper will make the argument that if we aren't aware of how we use our power, we will inhibit others and ourselves from reaching our full potential.   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AoSe3G4KF_I

My Guest on this episode is Stephanie Ahles the Co-Founder and CEO of EmpoweringYOU. She is an expert in effectively leading and managing organizations with a facilitative leadership style that prioritizes collaboration and inclusivity. Stephanie's expertise extends to participatory engagement methods and is certified as a Technology of Participation (ToP)® facilitator and mentor trainer. With over 20 years of experience in County government, Stephanie specializes in leadership and organizational development, change and project management, along with strategic planning.    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stephanie.ahles  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-ahles-68528b41/  SAMHSA Guide: https://www.samhsa.gov/resource/ebp/community-engagement-essential-component-substance-use-prevention-system Blog: https://nashp.org/engaging-with-people-with-lived-experience-in-opioid-settlement-decision-making/  

My Guest in this episode is Georgina Lafoe who is on staff at the Community Engagement Institute at Wichita State University and represents their Prevention Initiatives. Her story begins as a drug endangered child but today her life is thriving and demonstrates resiliency. She loves to build relationships with people who love to help people. Outside of CEI, Georgina enjoys traveling and visiting new cultures and cities. She adores her two nephews and spending time watching them encounter this world as new. Georgina also loves a good movie every now and then (preferably scary).

Greg Puckett a native southern West Virginian with a passion for prevention. He has worked tirelessly to bring special projects and initiatives to his community. He led the charge to support funding for Teen Courts throughout West Virginia, serves on several state committees and on the Board of the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA), where he is a past recipient of CADCA's National Advocate of the Year award. For the past decade, he has traveled throughout the United States to train communities on sustainability, and locally has worked to revitalize his hometown of Princeton, West Virginia. Through the “Princeton Renaissance Project” the group has been actively using culturally effective change strategies to revitalize its local downtown theater. The project is also a community engine to reduce substance misuse, reinvigorate hope in its young people, and engage the future, while embracing its past. He is the father of two children, Lauren, and Joseph, who keep him dedicated to making positive changes and leaving a legacy for the next generation to follow. Email: greg.puckett@strongcommunities.org Website: http://strongcommunities.org/ LinkedIn: @gregpuckettwv Community Toolbox: https://ctb.ku.edu/en/table-of-contents/assessment/promotion-strategies/overview/main

 My Guest today is Kendra Tapie, who serves as the Region Director of Prevention at Serenity Foundation of Texas, managing 3 prevention campuses in Abilene, Wichita Falls and Weatherford. Kendra is passionate about training and using her experience to equip, refresh and encourage others to be more effective in the Prevention field. Kendra helped form a Teen Recovery Group for students under the age of 18 and is a part of the Texas training cadre with the Human Health Service Commission. She has a degree in public speaking and master's in counseling and human development and is an Advanced Certified Prevention Specialist. In 2023 Kendra was recognized as the Texas Prevention Specialist of the Year.      Email: kendra@serenitytexas.com      Website: https://serenitytexas.com/      https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-transformational-leadership-2795313     https://youtu.be/c8ZCBZ_xDXU?feature=shared

Elliott Orrin Hinkle, they/them, BS - Principal and Founder of Unicorn Solutions LLC. Elliott is a skilled speaker, facilitator, advisor, and national expert focused on elevating lived expertise in systems that serve children, youth, and families particularly in support of the LGBTQIA2S+ community. They bring 12+ years lived and professional experience on topics such as child welfare, youth mental health, and the LGBTQIA2S+ community. Elliott has lived experience in the Wyoming Foster Care System as a young person but calls Oregon home. This is their 3rd year as a Federal Lived Experience Expert Partner for the Equity Technical Assistance Center (ETAC). Elliott has worked on the Children's Bureau Capacity Building Center for States Project and Division X TA Project at ICF and the National Youth in Transition Database (NYTD) Reviews via JBS International, and Oregon Healthy Transitions Project at Portland State University, a SAMHSA grant. Passionate about wellbeing and accessibility, they are a recipient of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Award for Health Equity. Dr. Ashley Austin, a cisgender ally to the transgender and nonbinary (TNB) community, is Professor of Social Work at Barry University and Co-creator and purveyor of the AFFIRM Interventions. Dr. Austin is actively engaged in research and clinical practice aimed at improving the well-being of TNB children, teens, and adults.  Her clinical social work practice is rooted in an affirmative and compassionate stance and has a focus on supporting clients of all ages in their journeys toward living fully authentic and connected lives. elliottunicornsolutions@gmail.com https://www.unicornsolutions.org Instagram: @unicornsolutionsllc aaustin@barry.edu Supporting Trans Youth (lgbtqequity.org) Federal Guidance on Gender-Affirming Care​ – The National SOGIE Center www.samhsa.gov/behavioral-health-equity/lgbtqi lgbtqequity.org/june-2024-podcast-series/#

Vida Khavar is  a licensed Marriage and Family therapist who has 25+ years' experience in child welfare. She has assisted many organizations in developing programs that serve children and families. Vida was a consultant for the federal project: RISE, which aimed at improving the lives of LGBTQ+ youth in foster care in Los Angeles County. She is currently the Clinical Director at Family Builders. As such, she collaborates with the California Department of Social Services in developing and implementing affirming policies and practices for LGBTQ+ children in foster care. Vida also leads the Youth Acceptance Project and provides her clinical expertise to several jurisdictions throughout the country. vkhavar@familybuilders.org https://www.linkedin.com/in/vida-khavar-lmft-918a393/ lgbtqequity.org/june-2024-podcast-series/# https://familybuilders.org/programs-services/youth-acceptance-project https://youtu.be/fyXRwX3aeOU - video (Support for LGBTQ Youth Starts at Home) Youth Acceptance Project – The National SOGIE Center www.samhsa.gov/behavioral-health-equity/lgbtqi

Dr. Bryant brings a plethora of experiences and knowledge dealing with substance use disorders (SUD), HIV/AIDS prevention and education, diversity, equity and inclusion training, anti-racism training, and sexual orientation education. He has been successful in developing and implementing a statewide strategic plan for Georgia in response to the opioid and prescription drug overdose epidemic. As a result of this formative work, Dr Bryant received a grant to do a multi-cultural needs assessment among vulnerable populations in support of the Statewide Strategic Plan from the Georgia Department of Public Health. Dr Bryant has published over 20 peer-reviewed articles in the areas of HIV/AIDS, homophobia, racism, and tobacco use prevention, and has been a registered respiratory therapist (RRT) for over 45 years, fighting on the front lines of the Covid-19 pandemic. As a part-time Assistant Professor at Kennesaw State University and Capella, University, Dr Bryant teaches courses in SUD, health and wellness and does research and training in the areas of SUD prevention, treatment, and recovery. Dr Bryant also has over 30 years in long-term recovery. Lbryant1924@gmail.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawrence-bryant-phd https://youtu.be/Tqryt-j94cY (video about LGBTQ+ Older Adults) lgbtqequity.org/june-2024-podcast-series/# www.samhsa.gov/behavioral-health-equity/lgbtqi

Angela Weeks brings extensive national experience creating, implementing, and evaluating programs and initiatives that improve the lives of LGBTQ+ people and communities. She has led the development of LGBTQ+ trainings and tools, policy revisions, webinars series, supported the design and implementation of interventions to support LGBTQ+ youth, and maintained resource databases and websites. In addition to directing this Center, Angela is the Project Director for The National Quality Improvement Center on Tailored Services, Placement Stability, and Permanency for LGBTQ2S Children and Youth in Foster Care (QIC-LGBTQ2S). As the Project Director for the QIC-LGBTQ2S, she has helped develop, implement, and evaluate 15 different LGBTQ+ programs and initiatives for LGBTQ+ foster youth, their families, and the workforce that serves them. She also has extensive experience supporting LGBTQ+ populations experiencing homelessness and the juvenile justice system.  She holds a Doctorate in Business Administration from the University of Maryland's Global Campus and a Master's in Public Administration from the University of Southern California. angela.weeks@uconn.edu lgbtqequity.org/june-2024-podcast-series/# https://youtu.be/-CrjaFBF5dY (video - Learning about Sexual Orientation) www.samhsa.gov/behavioral-health-equity/lgbtqi

Karie, is a Certified ToP® Facilitator and Mentor Trainer with extensive experience in strategic planning and community engagement. Her passion for fostering collaboration and driving positive change has led her to dedicate her career to helping organizations and communities achieve their goals through effective facilitation and inclusive decision-making processes. She excels at creating safe and inclusive spaces for dialogue, managing diverse perspectives, and ensuring that all voices are heard and valued. ·      www.karieterhark.com ·      https://www.linkedin.com/in/karieterhark ·      https://www.instagram.com/kt_facilitation/ ·      https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550480096730

Nathan Wray a Prevention Coordinator for the Roane County Anti-drug Coalition in Tennessee. He's also a highly sought after motivational speaker whose life story is nothing short of inspirational. Nathan speaks from the perspective of lived experience, in hopes of empowering youth, and his story is a powerful testament to the human spirit's resilience. Nathan's message combines his passion for change with a sense of humor that connects with the audience to make a lasting impact.  In his spare time, he hangs out with his four kids and his beautiful life. ·      Website: https://www.nathanwrayspeaks.com/  ·      Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatnathanwray/ ·      Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nwrayspeaks/

I am not a photographer by education or formal training. I often describe myself as an “accidental photographer” since most of what I know is self-taught - born out of a pure love of the outdoors and the beauty of creation. My journey into photography began near the end of my career as a federal drug prosecutor where I supervised the Organized Crime/Drug Enforcement Task Force – a group of agents, analysts and prosecutors who investigated and prosecuted high-level drug trafficking organizations. During that time, I was an eyewitness to some of the darkest aspects of society. Although my legal career was exciting and challenging, the investigation of these cases put me in direct contact with all forms of greed, addiction, violence, abuse and neglect of children, and the loss of dignity, health, freedom, and even life itself. Without recognizing it, all of those things weighed on my heart, mind and soul in ways that I couldn't imagine at the time. It took a mid-life crisis to bring me into the world of serious photography when I realized that decades of exposure to the darkest side of humanity had impacted my ability to recognize many of life's simple pleasures. Up to that point in my life, my wife and I had experienced blessings that are found in a blur of family activities – ballgames, school, church, Scouts, camping, hiking, birthdays, holidays, and occasional vacations. But as our children left home to attend college and raise families of their own, I found myself working longer hours and enjoying life less. After our last child left for college, I reached a turning point with the realization that I needed a hobby, something that would help me focus my attention on more positive thoughts and experiences. My choice at the time was an inexpensive film camera. Although I initially lacked the skills necessary to successfully capture a beautiful image, the simple act of looking through the lens of a camera allowed me to re-discover everything that is wonderful in life – a world full of amazing people, beautiful landscapes, fascinating creatures, and boundless opportunities and adventures. Through the lens of a camera, I rediscovered a sense of joy that I recognized as a gift from childhood when the world was full of wonder and awe. Now, many years later, I am blessed with opportunities to speak and train at local, state, regional and national conferences on a variety of subjects relating to the law, law enforcement, drug education, building strong communities, protecting and nurturing children, and photography. Because of my law enforcement background, many of my presentations require me to describe the grim realities of bad choices that negatively impact children, families and communities, but these opportunities also allow me to provide positive messages and solutions that can overcome feelings of hopelessness, pain, surrender, and despair. This is especially important in working directly with youth (ranging from those who are severely “at risk” to kids who seem blessed with every opportunity in life). At both ends of this spectrum I find that young people are eager to be “seen” AND heard by adults, and when given the right information and encouragement, they become eager to serve AND to lead. Increasingly, my youth workshops include teaching about photography and the great outdoors. My best days involve a photography/nature workshop followed by an outdoor excursion with a busload of kids. The combination of my professional background and love of photography allows me to share real life experiences that provide a stark contrast between choices that bring misery and pain with choices that can lead to a fulfilling and joyful life. By sharing these images, my purpose is to encourage others to make good choices and live happy and healthy lives. By tapping into the sense of wonder we all experienced as little children, we can all rediscover a world that is infinitely more satisfying than anything offered by a popular culture that often leads people in the wrong direction. One of my favorite photographers, Galen Rowell once said: “You only get one sunrise and one sunset a day, and you only get so many days on the planet. A good photographer does the math and doesn't waste either.” I hope that you enjoy each sunrise and sunset as you journey through a wonderful life. ·       Website:  https://www.montestiles.com/Keynote-Presentations ·       LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/montestiles/ ·       Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/montestiles/ ·       Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/monte.stiles  

Rodney Wambeam, Ph.D. is a Senior Research Scientist at the Wyoming Survey & Analysis Center (WYSAC) of the University of Wyoming (UW). He is also an adjunct professor in the Department of Political Science at UW. Dr. Wambeam completed his Ph.D. at the University of Nebraska in 1999 and served as policy advisor to Nebraska Governor Ben Nelson. He was Director of the Evaluation Research Department at the Nebraska Council to Prevent Alcohol and Drug Abuse before moving home to Wyoming in 2002. At WYSAC, Dr. Wambeam and his team conduct numerous substance abuse prevention and treatment research projects in many states including Arkansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oregon, and Wyoming. He currently leads the Federal Prevention Block Grant, State Opioid Response Grant, and National Opioid Litigation evaluations in Arkansas, as well as leading the Opioid/Fentanyl Needs Assessment and Strategic Plan in Wyoming. He has presented more than 50 keynotes across the country on substance abuse prevention with millennials and on the history of alcohol in America. His book “The Community Needs Assessment Workbook” from Oxford University Press came out in 2015. Email: rodney@uwyo.edu Website: https://wysac.uwyo.edu/wysac/people/rwambeam/  Book: The Community Needs Assessment Workbook

My guest on this episode is Rikki Barton who has a passion for communicating essential messages to move individuals and communities onward in their goals. She is the Founder/Lead Consultant of Onward Consulting and holds the Missouri Advanced Prevention Specialist certification as well as international IC&RC certification. Rikki has over 14 years of prevention field experience and currently serves as a consultant to assist organizations, coalitions, and state/federal agencies in the areas of substance use prevention, suicide prevention, and mental health promotion. She has extensive experience working with community coalitions, providing training, grant writing, managing funding sources, and leading a team of preventionists. Rikki trains for CADCA in their youth and adult training programs as well as trains for National Council for Mental Wellbeing as an Adult, Youth, and Teen Mental Health First Aid Instructor. She holds a Bachelors degree from Pennsylvania State University and a Masters degree from Liberty University. In her free time, Rikki loves exploring the outdoors on hikes with her rescue dog, Oreo. Rikki recently returned from an epic adventure trip to Nepal, where she completed the Everest Base Camp trek (unfortunately, without Oreo). ·      Email: rikki@onwardconsulting.biz ·      Web site: https://www.onwardconsulting.biz ·      LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikki-onward ·      Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onward_consulting/ ·      Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/onwardconsultingllc The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. The  National Center of Excellence on social media and Youth Mental Health serves as a centralized, trusted source for evidence-based education and technical assistance to support the mental health of children and adolescents as they navigate social media. https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/media-and-children/center-of-excellence-on-social-media-and-youth-mental-health/ The internet has dramatically reshaped how we buy and sell everything – including each other. Social media has been used by traffickers to recruit victims, to proliferate their trafficking operations, and to control victims through restricting their social media access, impersonating the victim, or spreading lies and rumors online. A leader in helping us to understand this issue is the Polaris Project, they are a survivor-centered, justice- and equity-driven movement to end human trafficking.  https://polarisproject.org/human-trafficking-and-social-media/   

Kris Gabrielsen is the co-director of the Great Lakes Prevention Technology Transfer Center. She has worked in the substance misuse prevention field for over 30 years. Kris was the Associate Director of the Western Center for the Application of Prevention Technologies (CAPT), co-authored the first Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist Training curriculum, and co-authored the textbook, Substance Abuse Prevention: The Intersection of Science and Practice. As a consultant, she has worked with states and communities across the nation to bridge the gap between research and practice, assisting prevention professionals in maximizing their effectiveness.  ·      Web site: https://pttcnetwork.org/centers/content/great-lakes-pttc ·      Website: https://pttcnetwork.org/centers/great-lakes-pttc/product/risk-factors-youth-substance-misuse-0 ·      Website: https://pttcnetwork.org/centers/great-lakes-pttc/product/building-protective-factors-using-social-development-strategy-0 ·      Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GLPTTC/ ·      LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/glpttc/  The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. Many factors influence a person's chance of developing a mental and/or substance use disorder. Effective prevention focuses on reducing those risk factors, and strengthening protective factors, that are most closely related to the problem being addressed. https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/20190718-samhsa-risk-protective-factors.pdf  The Social Development Research Group is a recognized leader in the field of prevention. Their work is guided by the belief that many common behavior, health, and social problems can be prevented. They have studied the causes of these problems in childhood, adolescence, and adulthood, and their research has enriched lives, influenced policy, and strengthened communities across the United States and around the world. https://depts.washington.edu/sdrg/

Dr. Monty Burks Deputy, Director of the Governor's Office of Faith Based and Community Initiatives, where his role is engaging and connecting Tennessee's faith communities to government and other non-profits with the goal of creating partnerships. In this episode we explore Building Blocks – Faith, Prevention, Recovery and the different intersection points between traditional and non-traditional behavioral health communities. Connect with our guest. ·      Email: m.burks@tn.gov ·      Web site: www.tn.gov   (search faith based) The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. Since 1993, SAMHSA has actively engaged and supported faith-based and community organizations involved in mental health services and substance use prevention and treatment. Their Community Substance Abuse Prevention Partnership Program includes more than 800 faith-based community partners. To learn more about programs and practices available, including funding opportunities visit: https://www.samhsa.gov/faith-based-community-engagement Faith and community leaders are often the first point of contact when individuals and families face mental health problems or traumatic events. In fact, in times of crisis, many will turn to trusted leaders in their communities before they turn to mental health professionals. Religious and other community organizations can play an important role in supporting individuals living with mental illnesses and encouraging them to seek help. To learn more about the role of Faith and Community leaders in mental health visit:  https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/how-to-talk/community-and-faith-leaders

Kurt Larson has been representing personal injury clients as a Missouri lawyer for more than 20 years. He graduated in the top of his class from the University of Oklahoma College of Law in 1992, and thereafter spent the summer working with trial attorneys at the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington, D. C. Prior to law school, Kurt graduated from Drury University in Springfield, Missouri, receiving a BA in English, with distinction. One of Kurts greatest projects is founding Safe and Sober Prom Night in 2004 in Springfield, Missouri. The program has evolved from an impaired-driving focus to preventing substance misuse in all its forms. The program today is simply known as Safe and Sober and has reached over 1 million students in 41 states, and schools as far away as Kiev, Ukraine and Queensland, Australia have downloaded their content. Safe and Sober provides an innovative way to combat substance misuse through a free program which features prevention-focused videos and curriculum that are used by schools, homeschool groups, and community organizations. Safe and Sober uses engaging and educational content, to encourage dialogue and preventative action between youth, educators, and parents. To Learn more visit www.safeandsober.org https://www.facebook.com/SafeandSoberOrg https://www.instagram.com/safeandsoberorg/ The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. Know the facts, about 1 in 4 teen car crashes involves an underage drinking driver. Talk with teens about the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Impaired driving is entirely preventable. A link to a SAMHSA resource that gives tips for talking to kids about drunk and drug-impaired driving is available here - https://www.samhsa.gov/talk-they-hear-you/parent-resources/impaired-driving

Seth Dewey has been an advocate for social change in the substance use arena since 2017. He is a co-founder of the Kansas Recovery Network, a grassroots Harm Reduction coalition and has been working in public health since 2020. His passion revolves around the health, rights, and well-being of people who use drugs, people in recovery (no matter the path), and for the populations disproportionately affected by substance use due to the antiquated policies surrounding the issue. Seth is actively involved in recovery housing efforts including serving as the Oxford House World Council Chairman. Recently he was appointed to the Governors Behavioral Health Services Planning Committee for the State of Kansas. Seth is a student at Fort Hays State University pursuing his BS in organizational leadership. Connect with Seth: seth.dewey@renogov.org The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. SAMHSA's working definition of recovery defines recovery as a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live self-directed lives, and strive to reach their full potential. Learn more about SAMHSA's focus on recovery and support at https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/recovery The SAMHSA Harm Reduction Framework is the first document to comprehensively outline harm reduction and its role within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The Framework will inform SAMHSA's harm reduction activities moving forward, as well as related policies, programs, and practices.  Download this resource here https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/harm-reduction/framework 

Dr. Fred Rottnek is a Professor and the Director of Community Medicine at Saint Louis University School of Medicine and the Program Director of the Saint Louis University Addiction Medicine Fellowship. His clinical practices currently include addiction medicine and correctional healthcare. He teaches in the School of Medicine, the Physician Assistant Program, and the School of Law. Board-Certified in Family Medicine and Addiction Medicine, he is the Medical Director for the Assisted Recovery Centers of American (ARCA) and Juvenile Detention in Family Court for the City of St. Louis. He serves on the boards of the Saint Louis Regional Health Commission and Alive and Well Communities.  Email: Fred.Rottnek@health.slu.edu The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. The human brain is the most complex organ in the body. Drugs can alter important brain areas that are necessary for life-sustaining functions and can drive the compulsive drug use that marks addiction. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has a great recourse available titled Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction. For more information visit -  https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/drugs-brain It is reported that only 25% of parents speak with their children about the dangers of drugs. How can we educate parents on the dangers of drugs and alcohol, and provide them with the tools needed to guide and engage children through this very rough and sensitive terrain? Addiction is Real can help answer this simple question – to learn more visit www.addictionisreal.org  We'd like to hear from you, please send your comment, topic or guest suggestion to midamericapttc@gmail.com

“Anna Simonson is the proud wife of Kirk and mom to Liam, 13 and Luna, 9 months. As the Project Director of her Region's state-level Strategic Prevention Framework Partnerships for Success Grant, she works in 10 counties across Southwest and South-Central Missouri to prevent youth substance use through empowerment and protective factors. Anna has been a Missouri Prevention Specialist since 2019, when she began working at Community Partnership of the Ozarks as a prevention specialist. In February 2022, Anna was given the opportunity to oversee the R-PFS grant and has since found her stride as a prevention professional. Anna thrives when she is able to help community-led coalitions leverage resources for effective, equitable, and sustainable community betterment.” email: asimonson@cpozarks.org  The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. Talk, They Hear You is a   national youth substance use prevention campaign that help parents and caregivers, educators, and community members get informed, be prepared, and take action to prevent underage drinking and other substance use. To learn more, visit Talk The Hear You Search Institute has identified 40 positive supports and strengths that young people need to succeed. Half of the assets focus on the relationships and opportunities they need in their families, schools, and communities. The remaining assets focus on the social-emotional strengths, values, and commitments that are nurtured within young people. To learn more, visit Search Institute 

Dr. Emily Kline is a clinical psychologist and assistant professor of psychiatry at Boston University School of Medicine. She serves as the Director of Psychological Services for the Wellness and Recovery After Psychosis team and leads the Motivational Interviewing for Loved Ones lab at Boston Medical Center. Her research focuses on early course psychosis, adolescent and young adult mental health, and parent-focused interventions. Dr. Kline is the author of The School of Hard Talks: How to Have Real Conversations with Your (Almost Grown) Kids and the creator of The School of Hard Talks Online. She has published dozens of articles appearing in a range of peer-reviewed scholarly journals, textbooks, and popular magazines, and she has spoken with audiences all over the world about mental health and interpersonal communication. Dr. Kline completed her bachelor's degree at Haverford College, her master's and doctoral degrees at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, and her clinical and post-doctoral training at Harvard Medical School. She lives in Boston with her family. Email: schoolofhardtalks@gmail.com Web site: www.dremilykline.com  www.learnaboutmilo.com  Socials: Instagram @emilyklinephd  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-kline-b9443624/ E-course: The School of Hard Talks https://handholdma.org/what-can-i-do/the-school-of-hard-talks-online-lessons-from-motivational-interviewing-for-everyday-families Book: The School of Hard Talks https://www.amazon.com/School-Hard-Talks-Conversations-Almost/dp/1632174707/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3GHJJ7DSNKJAV&keywords=hard+talks+emily+kline&qid=1697828581&sprefix=emily+kline%2Caps%2C208&sr=8-1

Nashville based author and speaker Trish Luna needed the story more than 30 years ago for her then-very young children Nick and Sami as their father struggled with substance use disorder (SUD), a struggle that eventually took his life. Trish knows first-hand that shame, stigma, and chaos that comes from dealing with a loved one's addiction, which can impact generations to come. Trish has a master's degree in philosophy and ethics from Vanderbilt University and has a diverse professional background, and “Lambi Talks About Addiction' A Book About Prevention” continues her life's work. She remains an in-demand speaker at school's court programs, treatment centers, non-profits, and professional conferences. For additional information and resources, please visit www.lambilearns.com or email info@lambilearns.com   The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) are strongly associated with a wide range of health problems that can persist throughout a person's lifespan. To learn more about Adverse Childhood Experiences and the Role of Substance Misuse Prevention, download a resource guide from the Strategic Prevention Technical Assistance Center (SPTAC).  https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/sptac-ace-role-of-substance-misuse-prevention.pdf

As the Director and Chief Research Scientist at The Montana Institute, Dr. Jeff Linkenbach has developed national award-winning programs that change community norms. Jeff holds a Doctor of Education with a focus on community education, a master's degree in counseling and has over the past 30 years of experience in public health leadership. He is a co-investigator of the HOPE (Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences) study at the HOPE Center at Tufts School of Medicine and a past Fellow at the Mansfield Academy for Global Leadership at The University of Montana.   In 1998, Jeff created the National Conference on The Social Norms Approach to Prevention, which has since transformed into the renowned Montana Summer Institute on Positive Community Norms. Jeff also founded the Center for Health & Safety Culture at the Western Transportation Institute and is the developer of the Science of the Positive and Positive Community Norms frameworks, which have been utilized by tribal, federal, state, and local organizations to achieve positive change and transformation around issues such as child maltreatment, substance abuse, suicide and traffic safety.  Jeff is known for translating social norms science into practical applications and has trained others to implement effective norms interventions across North America. For the past sixteen years, he has led Positive Community Norms implementation across the state of Minnesota, which has resulted in significant reductions in teen alcohol and other substance abuse. Jeff was a member of the Center for Disease Control & Prevention's Knowledge-to-Action (K2A) think tank on Essentials for Childhood and was commissioned by the CDC to write a supplemental paper on Promoting Positive Community Norms. He has served as a consultant and trainer for numerous prestigious organizations such as the U.S. White House (Office of National Drug Control Policy), the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration, The Canadian Agriculture Safety Association, The U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Harvard University, The American Medical Association, The National Football League, and many others. Email: jeff@montanainstitute.com  Web site: www.montanainstitute.com The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA.

Shanelle was born and raised in Chicago, IL. She relocated to Columbia, MO in 2012 to begin her undergraduate career at the University of Missouri – Columbia. During that time, she developed a love for helping people and found that to be her area of passion. Shanelle graduated with her Bachelor's degree in Human Development and Family Sciences with emphasis in Family and Lifespan Development and a minor in Social Justice. After graduating, she began working in the community to help meet the needs of the people. She has over 10 years of trauma-informed social service experience that includes work as a Domestic Violence Victims Advocate, Youth Specialist, Parent Child Educator, Foster Care Case Manager, and Foster Parent. During that time, she discovered her purpose in life, which is being the voice for the underserved populations in the face of adversity. Shanelle strives to bring equity, cohesiveness, and stability in communities to enhance the quality of them. This will be accomplished by rebuilding the families within them. However, she recognizes that in order to rebuild families you must focus on the individuals that make up the families first. For this to be achieved, parents will be guided in the process of personal development to help them gain confidence within themselves, learn to effectively advocate for the things they want in their lives, and form konnections within the community. She believes that every person deserves to obtain and maintain a high quality of life no matter what their past or current struggles are. Shanelle is currently pursuing a master's degree in public health from the University of Missouri in hopes of obtaining her LCSW license. Her end goal is to be a licensed clinical therapist and traveling keynote/motivational speaker. In her free time, she enjoys listening to music, reading, spending time with her family and friends, and traveling with her young daughter creating memories. View Shanelle's Storyboard here: Implementation of Prevention Programming on Two Campuses Learn about all the BOLD Fellows: https://pttcnetwork.org/centers/global-pttc/pttc-prevention-fellows-2022-23-v2    The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. The Mission of the African American Behavioral Health Center of Excellence is to address the need for greater equity and effectiveness in behavioral health services for African Americans. The center is determined to help transform behavioral health services for African Americans. For more information visit https://africanamericanbehavioralhealth.org

Stephanie DeRosa-Hillmann, LPC, Manager – SOCIAL Network, joined the RWJBarnabas Health Institute for Prevention and Recovery in December 2017. Stephanie is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 10 years' experience in the fields of mental health and substance use. Stephanie received her B.A. degree in Psychology from Georgian Court University and M.S. degree in Mental Health Counseling with specialization in Substance Use from Monmouth University. Stephanie's faith has always played a large role in her life, laying the foundation for her career and passion for serving her community. Stephanie spent much of her early career conducting assessments and providing outpatient treatment to both youth and adults. Stephanie has extensive experience in providing clinical case management services within the community. Stephanie's passion for community engagement and motivation to reduce substance use through collective impact brought her to the Institute for Prevention and Recovery. In her work, she has guided community partners and key stakeholders through a needs assessment process identifying community needs and resources. Stephanie works to open communication and inform collaboration among community partners to best serve youth and families. Her clinical background and strong relationship with faith have come together to kick off the SOCIAL Network project. The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. Did you know that SAMHSA has actively engaged and supported faith-based and community organizations involved in substance use and mental health services since 1992. To learn more visit https://www.samhsa.gov/faith-based-initiatives The 2023–2026 SAMHSA Strategic Plan presents a new person-centered mission and vision highlighting key guiding principles and presenting new priorities, goals, and objectives. To achieve its mission, SAMHSA has identified five priorities, including strengthening the workforce, to better meet the behavioral health needs of individuals, communities, and service providers. To view the strategic plan visit -  https://www.samhsa.gov/about-us/strategic-plan      Email: Stephanie.Derosa-Hillman@rjwbh.org  https://www.rwjbh.org/treatment-care/institute-for-prevention-and-recovery/ https://www.facebook.com/RWJBHifpr https://www.instagram.com/rwjbh_preventionrecovery/ https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/37461221/

My Guest during this episode is Sierra Thomas. She is new to the prevention world, becoming a Community Prevention Specialist in June of 2023. She previously worked as a certified elementary school counselor and continues to love helping others grow in their mental health and wellness journeys. I met Sierra at a professional development workshop, and she shared with me one of her 28 in 28 goals is to be a podcast guest, so I invited her to the Prevention Perk to chat about her leap into the prevention workforce.  She currently resides in KCMO, but hails from small town South Dakota. During this conversation I hope to learn about, “why the leap into prevention” , “what she hopes from this career path”, and most importantly about her dog Harper." The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. To learn more visit www.samhsa.gov The 2023–2026 SAMHSA Strategic Plan presents a new person-centered mission and vision highlighting key guiding principles and presenting new priorities, goals, and objectives. To achieve its mission, SAMHSA has identified five priorities, including strengthening the workforce, to better meet the behavioral health needs of individuals, communities, and service providers. To view the strategic plan visit -  https://www.samhsa.gov/about-us/strategic-plan

My Guests today are Isaac Wulff, Sarah Meyers, Mollie Mustoe, and Brisa Sanchez they represent The Statewide Rural Network, a collaborative group of volunteers and leaders across the State of Washington who are building resiliency and safeguarding youth. Collectively, they represent the voices of rural populations across their state. I met these rural preventionist and recorded this podcast during the 2023 NPN conference in Birmingham. The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. Established in 1980, the Center for Rural Health provides information on rural health policy, research, education, and community development. The center website offers information and links about its work with communities, as well as links to publications on rural health. A link to this resource is in the show notes.  https://www.samhsa.gov/resource/dbhis/center-rural-health  The Statewide Rural Network is a gathering of rural people who support youth in their journey to whole health. To learn more about the work our guests are doing visit www.preventcoalition.org/rural  Email our guests for further collaboration. isaacwulff@gmail.com  sMeyers@qbhs.org   Brisa.sanchez@esd105.org   mmustoe@qbhs.org  

Dave Closson, creator of DJC Solutions, is an established speaker, author, coach, veteran, and facilitator with a passion for linking arms with others who want to live an abundant life. He knows you have the grit to excel in a thriving career, inherit more time freedom, and have the “jump-out-of-bed” feeling every morning. Dave's cornerstone is to meet you where you are, utilizing intent listening to understand the root of your current struggles and desired outcomes on the other side of them… A-Game style. Prior to his current roles, Dave's drive and discipline were developed during his employment as a sergeant in the Illinois Army National Guard as one of few handpicked for the sniper team. While the catalyst for his current success, Dave also suffered a traumatic brain injury while deployed leading to another battle: PTSD and a substance misuse disorder. Overcoming the greatest challenges of his life, Dave's transformation happened slowly yet intently. Recognizing he had lost who he was at the core, Dave's inner warrior emerged as he worked tirelessly to help his resiliency and self-awareness resurface. Dave now uses the same strategies and tactics to empower others of all walks of life to live in a sustainable state of passion, purpose, connection, and drive. The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. SAMHSA works with federal and other partners to increase the supply of trained and culturally aware professionals to address the nation's behavioral health needs. Visit www.samhsa.gov/workforce for more information. A focus on health equity allows communities to direct their prevention strategies towards the most vulnerable populations in the region they serve. You can learn to embed an equity lens into your everyday prevention efforts by viewing the series Structural Inequities Affecting Prevention Practice A product created in partnership with Rize Consultants and hosted on the mid-America PTTC YouTube channel.

Christa Shifflett from Warren County, Virginia where she serves as Executive Director of the Warren Coalition. Over the past four years she and her staff have been developing a layered, intricate approach to developing community resilience.  The foundation of this work is  the ACE's - Adverse Childhood Experiences.  I met up with Christa at the 2023 CADCA Mid-Year, following her presentation Connection and Resilience vs. Aces and Isolation – The Battle for Healthy Communities. Learn more about the Warren Coalition: www.warrencoalition.org The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. SAMHSA's National Child Traumatic Stress Initiative (NCTSI) improves treatment and services for children, adolescents, and families who have experienced traumatic events. You'll find a link for this resource in the show notes or visit https://www.samhsa.gov/child-trauma  Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can have a tremendous impact on future violence, victimization and perpetration, and lifelong health and opportunity. The Center of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a website dedicated to helping you better understand. You'll find a link for this resource in the show notes or visit www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/aces

The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA.  Stefan Denson is an experienced independent contractor in the field of civil rights. He is retired from public service. He has served on the board of various nonprofit organizations which have focused in the areas of higher education, civil rights, and community service. Working as a facilitator and trouble shooter between a university computer team and a federal civil rights enforcement agency, Stefan helped the parties develop a computer program using elements of artificial intelligence. Stefan's professional pursuits are guided by his personal interests. This includes a strong interest in the field of media literacy where Stefan has assisted in co-authoring a revision of the textbook on Media Literacy (Approach to Media Literacy, 3rd Edition, M.L. Sharpe). Stefan is a graduate of Washington University – St. Louis with a master's degree in legal studies. Dr. Silverblatt is Professor Emeritus of Media Communications at Webster University, St. Louis, Missouri. He is the author of Media Literacy: Keys to Interpreting Media Messages, Dictionary of Media Literacy, Approaches to Media Literacy, International Communications, Approaches to Genre Study, and Handbook of Media Literacy, as well as numerous articles focusing on the topic of Media Literacy. He is a Founding Member of DIMLE. A seasoned, life-long communications practitioner and devoted professional community connector and volunteer, Jessica Z. Brown-Billhymer has been advocating for citizens to be mindful media consumers and creators, for more than 25 years. She is founder and president of Gateway Media Literacy Partners Inc. (GMLP), a regional nonprofit focused on helping community make sense of media in the digital age, and originator of the first annual Media Literacy Week in the nation. Brown-Billhymer and partners devote time and expertise to community media literacy education, and to uniting a variety of institutions in efforts to promote the virtues of sustained media literacy education. Brown-Billhymer and fellow media literacy champions have always contended, media literacy can lead to greater agency and a more educated, critical-thinking and empowered citizenry. Digital International Media Literacy Education: https://dimle.org Gateway Media Literacy Partners: https://www.gmlp.org  SAMHSA offers free, downloadable publications and tip sheets, as well as mobile apps for youth, teens, and young adults on topics such as substance misuse, common mental health conditions, and coping with disasters and other traumatic events. https://www.samhsa.gov/prevention-week/voices-of-youth/substance-use-prevention-resources-youth-college-students Interested in sharing your story in a digital format. SAMHSA has a How-to Guide for Digital Story Telling to support the recovery and healing of self and other through messages of hope. This guide can help you plan, organize, and make a digital story. It includes helpful, easy-to-use resources for each stage of the process. https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/programs_campaigns/brss_tacs/samhsa-storytelling-guide.pdf

The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. During this episode we're discussing The Eight Professional Competencies for Higher Education Substance Misuse Prevention. To download a copy of the guide visit www.preventioncompetencies.org    David Anderson, Ph.D. is Professor Emeritus of Education and Human Development at George Mason University, where he worked for 28 years; he served as Professor and Director of the Center for the Advancement of Public Health.  Prior to that, he served as a college administrator at The Ohio State University, Radford University and Ohio University. He has managed hundreds of national state and local projects while teaching graduate and undergraduate classes.  An active researcher and writer, he has decades-long research on college drug and alcohol issues, high school youth and community efforts. The focus of his work is upon practical applications for youth, young adults, and leaders at the campus, community, state and national level, and he continues with training, speaking and research.  His two most recent books are Leading Campus Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention: Grounded Approaches for Student Impact (co-authored with Thomas Hall; NASPA, 2021) and Leadership in Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention: Insights from Long-Term Advocates (Routledge, 2020).  Other recent books include Health and Safety Communication: A Practical Guide Forward (2017), Wellness Issues for Higher Education (2015) and Further Wellness Issues for Higher Education (2016). He orchestrates the College Alcohol Survey, a triennial survey on campus strategies addressing drug and alcohol misuse, done since 1979 through 2021.  He serves on the U.S. Center for Substance Abuse Prevention's National Advisory Council and the American College Health Association's COVID-19 Task Force.  He is active as a community leader in Celebration, Florida, where he serves as a Director with the Celebration Residential Owners Association.  www.preventioncompetencies.org https://www.campusdrugprevention.gov/practitioners-toolbox www.caph.gmu.edu To gain a deeper understanding of the subject we're discussing with Dr. David Anderson, listen to the 8-part series about the Professional Competencies for Higher Education Substance Misuse Prevention. A link to the series is available at www.preventioncompetencies.org

The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA.  Laura Sacks Morris received he B.A. in Communications with high honors from the University of Maine at Orono. In 2000, she founded the Second Chance Foundation with the mission of helping youth make healthy decisions through ongoing preventive, interactive theatrical school programs on bullying, addictions, suicide, tobacco prevention and other topics.  For over 10 years, she worked as a facilitator and theatrical director with the Council for Drug Free Youth as well as one year as the Project Coordinator for the Drug Free Community grant in mid-Missouri. After re-locating back to Maine 7 years ago, she continues her work in prevention as the Project Director for Be the Influence, a Drug Free Community grant, including building a coalition of community members who have collectively worked to reduce youth substance use in the Windham/Raymond area. She is certified as a national leadership/prevention trainer including TIPS, DEEP and a range of other subjects as well as a motivational speaker and CADCA prevention graduate. ·      Email: btidirector@windhammaine.us ·      Web:  www.betheinfluencewrw.org SAMHSA offers free, downloadable publications and tip sheets, as well as mobile apps for youth, teens, and young adults on topics such as substance misuse, common mental health conditions, and coping with disasters and other traumatic events.  https://www.samhsa.gov/prevention-week/voices-of-youth/substance-use-prevention-resources-youth-college-students  Art is not only a protective factor, but it's a great community builder and gateway to collaboration. Interested in learning more about the use of art in prevention? You can follow “be the influence” on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube or visit their website at betheinfluencewrw.org. Learn more today!

The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. My Guests today are Karie Terhark and Chuck Daugherty. Karie works with the team at Hue Life inspiring and facilitating change guided by the values of inclusion, teamwork, and collaboration. Chuck currently serves as the Executive Director of Act Missouri a training and technical assistance provider and has been advancing in the field of photography for 5 decades. Together they are advancing the art of PhotoVoice in the prevention field. Today we'll explore this technique and learn about a recent project they completed with teens in rural Kentucky. SAMHSA offers free, downloadable publications and tip sheets, as well as mobile apps for youth, teens, and young adults on topics such as substance misuse, common mental health conditions, and coping with disasters and other traumatic events. You'll find a link for these resources in the show notes. https://www.samhsa.gov/prevention-week/voices-of-youth/substance-use-prevention-resources-youth-college-students  Interested in learning more about PhotoVoice? There are several research papers, case studies and examples about this art form available on the internet. The Community Toolbox has a great resource complete with examples and a downloadable PowerPoint, and Act Missouri offers a tool kit to help jump start a student photovoice. Links to these resources are in the show notes. If a picture is worth a thousand words, PhotoVoice helps tell the whole story. Learn more today! Email: karie.terhark@hue.life  cdaugherty@actmissouri.org Web Resources: https://photovoice.org/  community toolbox  ACT Missouri Toolkit     Karie Terhark is a Certified ToP Faciliatator who previously worked as the Director for Allies for Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition (A.S.A.P.). While at A.S.A.P., she facilitated a countywide coalition of volunteers to assess, plan, and implement environmental strategies to change the culture around underage drug and alcohol abuse. Through that process, the coalition has successfully passed ordinances and policies that have created sustainability in their efforts. Karie also worked for 10 years in the Human Resource field along with being a small business owner. Karie's energy is contagious and she is driven to inspire people to make a change in their lives and communities.   Chuck Daugherty first got involved with community mobilization in the late 90's. Since then he has worked as a community organizer and mobilizer across the Southwest. In Texas, Chuck trained and supervised three community outreach teams mobilizing to combat the HIV crisis in specific targeted populations. Additionally, he consulted with community coalitions in the Greater Dallas Area organizing to prevent teen substance abuse. While employed as a Prevention Specialist at the Southwest Center for the Application of Prevention Technologies (CAPT) at the University of Oklahoma, he provided community technical assistance, training, consultation, to communities throughout a nine-state region in the Southwest. Most recently Chuck is the Executive Director of Act Missouri, and Co-Director of the Mid-America PTTC that serves the four states in HHS Region7. As a semi-professional photographer he has recently begun combining his passion for prevention with his passion for photography providing technical assistance and training for Community Photovoice Projects across the country. 

My Guest today is Nicole M Augustine is the Founder & CEO RIZE Consultants, Inc, a strategic consulting firm founded in January 2015. Nicole is an entrepreneur, public health professional and social justice advocate. Nicole gained the Prevention Specialist credential in 2014 and has worked at every level of prevention practice - from providing prevention education to providing training and technical assistance to communities, states, and federal agencies. In August 2022, Nicole published the Prevention Specialist Exam Study Guide to help readers understand the competencies and knowledge necessary to become a Prevention Specialist (PS) and adequately prepare prevention professionals to pass the Prevention Specialist certification exam. Nicole is a passionate prevention thought leader with a desire to be of greater impact and drive community change through innovative strategies.   Show Notes: Email: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolemaugustine Web: www.rizeconsultants.com Book: Prevention Specialist Exam Study Guide Articles: https://www.brainzmagazine.com/executive-contributor/Nicole-M.-Augustine The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. The National Network to Eliminate Disparities in Behavioral Health (NNED) is a network of community-based organizations focused on the mental health and substance use issues of diverse racial and ethnic communities.  Learn more at https://nned.net The Prevention Core Competencies guide provides professional direction affecting staff development, career ladders and pipelines, and provides guidance for training programs and service delivery qualification. SAMHSA Prevention Core Competencies.

Amy Ronshausen is the Executive Director of both Drug Free America Foundation and Save Our Society from Drugs. Both of these national nonprofit organizations work to defeat drug legalization attempts, promote sound drug policies, and prevent drug use, abuse and addiction. Amy is passionate about reducing illegal drug use and drug prevention, coordinating grassroots advocacy campaigns, prevention summits, analyze and track state and federal drug policy legislation, and training prevention professionals at local and national conferences.   Links: ·      www.dfaf.org (drug free America foundation)  ·      www.saveoursociety.org (save our society from drugs) ·      https://onechoiceprevention.org/ (One Choice) ·      https://www.listenfirstproject.org/ (Listen First Project) ·      https://learnaboutsam.org/ (Smart Approaches to Marijuana) ·      https://onechancetogrowup.org/ (One Chance to Grow Up) The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. Did you know nearly 700 publications and digital products are available online at https://store.samhsa.gov Learn about the real risks for people who use marijuana, especially youth and young adults, and women who are pregnant or nursing. SAMHSA has online resources available at www.samhsa.gov/marijuana 

Sara Kohlbeck is the Director of the Division of Suicide Prevention at the Comprehensive Injury Center at the Medical College of Wisconsin. In her role, Sara works with collaborators around the State of Wisconsin to research, develop, implement, and evaluate strategies for suicide prevention. Her work currently focuses on suicide prevention among veterans as well as farmers and marginalized populations, including Black and Latinx individuals living in urban areas. Sara is also a PhD Candidate in the Institute for Health and Equity at the Medical College of Wisconsin. Her dissertation research is focused on better understanding farmer suicide through qualitative methods, including photovoice. Sara received her Master's in Public Health from the Zilber School of Public Health at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and her Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. Sara currently lives in Milwaukee, WI with her husband, Aaron, her two children, Grace and Harrison, and her rescue dogs, Brisco and Ollie. ·       Links: www.afsp.org ·       Podcast:@mcwsuicideprev The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. You'll find several resources about suicide on the SAMHSA website, to learn more visit https://www.samhsa.gov/suicide If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org There are a wealth of resources available about 988 on the SAMHSA website. The more we know the better equipped we are to save a life. There's a link in the show notes or search SAMHSA 988 https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988

My guest today is Julie Stevens who has dedicated her career to prevention across the lifespan, and the treatment of substance use disorders.  Along the way she's served in various leadership capacities, including her current term on the Board of the International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium, and also serves on the Texas Certification Board of Addiction Professionals.  Since 2013 Julie and her partner Mitchell Moore have operated the non-profit Prevention Training Service, reaching an international audience with virtual trainings and conferences. Learn more about Prevention Training Services The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. Get Connected a free downloadable resource helps understand the issues associated with substance misuse and mental illness in older adults.  The toolkit also contains materials to educate older adults. Download Get Connected    

My guests for this episode are Dr. Evelyn Higgins and Jacqueline Hall from Wired for Addiction.  Dr. Higgins, an international expert in the epidemiology of addiction, works to inspire communities to talk openly about mental health and addiction from a solutions-oriented perspective. Ms. Hall is the COO of Wired for Addiction She works as the liaison to ensure that criminal justice, state and federal government; along with the medical community and others have access to the pioneering services they provide. The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. Learn all about SAMHSA, who they are, the various centers they support, council's they lead, even their strategic plan and employment opportunities. Visit samhsa.gov/about-us  for more information.   Prevention Perk is a platform which serves as a prevention catalyst, empowering individuals and fostering partnerships to promote safe, healthy, and drug-free communities. Follow us on Facebook and direct your questions or comments to midamerica@pttcnetwork.org To learn more about the subject we're been discussing visit www.wiredforaddiction.com View Dr. Higgins Tedx Talk: https://www.tedxjacksonville.com/talks/evelyn-higgins-addiction-researcher 

Carlton Hall, President and CEO of Carlton Hall Consulting, he has been providing intensive substance abuse prevention focused and community problem solving services to the nation for 25 years, with successful achievements in South Africa, Ghana, Bermuda, Kenya, and others.  Carlton spent twelve years with the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA). Currently, his team of consultants provides executive training and technical assistance support to the Southeast PTTC (Region 4). Additionally, Carlton sits on several boards of directors, including, the National Alliance for Drug Endangered Children. https://www.preventionmastery.com     http://carltonhallconsulting.com  https://www.samhsa.gov/coe-social-media-mental-wellbeing  

My guest today is Samantha Sherman, the Prevention Resource Center Director at Community Partnership of the Ozarks. She leads a team that provides substance use prevention TA, and works tirelessly to reduce stigma, suicide, and improve mental health awareness. Welcome to the Prevention Perk. The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. Did you know nearly 700 publications and digital products are available on the SAMHSA store front. Visit https://store.samhsa.gov Learn more mental health first aid from the National Council for Mental Wellbeing. Visit https://www.thenationalcouncil.org/

Sheryl “Ms. Sherry” Branch-Maxwell, has been a driving force in Missouri for more than four decades. During that time, she has overseen the provision of capacity-building assistance to promote evidence-informed practices with state and local partners. For over 35 years, Ms. Sherry has embraced positive youth development, policy change and truly believes in the strength and ability of youth in the Missouri Bootheel. Currently, Ms. Sherry serves as Assistant Area Coordinator for Lincoln University Cooperative Extension in Charleston, MO and is innovative in leading partnerships, integrating youth programming, food and nutrition programs, while working closely with state officials to expand assistance to those in need. Ms. Sherry's most notable project, is Kids' Beat. At one time the organization had an enrollment of over 1,500 members across more than 30 clubs in all 6 Bootheel counties, including Butler and Cape Girardeau. She has served on several gubernatorial boards, including but not limited to, The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. State Celebration Commission, The Children's Trust Fund, African American Task Force and the Missouri Commission for Volunteerism. Most recently, Ms. Sherry was the 2021 DeVerne Lee Calloway Woman of the Year Award recipient. https://store.samhsa.gov/product/One-Voice-One-Community- Welcome to the Prevention Perk. The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. Visit the SAMHSA store front where you'll find hundreds of publications, including One Voice, One Community offers strategies for communities on collaborating with faith-based organizations to address the service needs of people living with mental illness, substance use disorders, or both. Here's a link to this resource... https://store.samhsa.gov/product/One-Voice-One-Community-Building-Strong-Effective-Partnerships-Among-Community-Faith/SMA13-4739 The African American Behavioral Health Center of Excellence was developed by SAMHSA to address the urgent need for greater equity and effectiveness in behavioral health services for African Americans. They are determined to help our field transform behavioral health services for African Americans. Visit their website... https://africanamericanbehavioralhealth.org

Our guests are Kate Kelley, Director of Community Programming with the Alliance of Southwest Missouri and Crystal Dalmasso, Prevention Specialist & Training Consultant with a TTA provider in Kansas called DCCCA.  In this episode we discuss SAMHSA's recent Core Competencies training pilot. Visit the SAMHSA Evidence Based Practices Resource Center at: https://www.samhsa.gov/resource-search/ebp 

Our guests today are Kim Freese, Region-7 Administrator for SAMHSA and Catherine Satterwhite, Region-7 Health Administrator from the Office of Assistant Secretary of Health. In this episode we're exploring Missouri's Overdose Prevention Planning Strategy. As a reminder, SAMHSA is the funder of this project along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC. Did you know that SAMHSA has an Opioid Overdose Prevention Toolkit, available free for download? https://store.samhsa.gov/product/Opioid-Overdose-Prevention-Toolkit/SMA18-4742 Learn more about opioid prevention on the HealtheKnowledge platform. They have 25 titles to choose from including two Spanish language courses, topics to assist Special Populations – and a whole lot more. It's free to sign-up. Visit HealtheKnowledge.org

Stacee Read the Director of Network Development for the National Alliance for Drug Endangered Children. She is responsible for the development and oversight of State, Local, and Tribal DEC Alliances, and for providing training and TA within the DEC network - and to professionals across the nation. Her previous work in child welfare has included such roles as Crisis Counselor, and a Fatality Review Team Facilitator. Her depth of experience on committees and workgroups includes Substance Exposed Newborns, Rural Methamphetamine, and Child Protection.  Stacee received her Master's in Social Work and her undergraduate studies in Psychology with an emphasis on abnormal psychology and dependency behaviors. Ms. Read is also an adjunct professor and consultant helping students and professionals on various topic issues across the country. sread@nationaldec.org https://www.checkdec.org/en 

Ret. Lieutenant Eric Nation, who began his career in law enforcement and where he spent many years in a narcotics division. It was this exposure that eventually led him to recognize the impact that drugs and drug environments have on children, which ultimately led him to help start the Jasper County Drug Endangered Children Alliance. Upon retirement from formal law enforcement, Nation joined the National Alliance for Drug Endangered Children as Director of Training and Development, who has been involved in training thousands of professionals across the United States. Mr. Nation has been recognized locally and nationally for his efforts, and as we'll soon learn his story is one of transformation from ‘lack of awareness - to leading advocate' for children and families caught in the cycle of drug use. enation@nationaldec.org https://www.checkdec.org/en 

Chris Davis, who is the Vice President of Prevention and Youth Support at Community Partnership of the Ozarks in Springfield, Mo.  Chris began his career as a counselor, but 23 years ago started his journey into substance use and violence prevention. Mr. Davis and his team provide services across a multi-county region of Southwest Missouri, and in some regards, he is the un-official historian of prevention across his state and is affectionately known as Mr. Logic Model due to his interest in perfecting the model and his passion for teaching that skill. Websites: https://nida.nih.gov/videos/teen-brain-development  www.cpozarks.org/help www.taneycountyadapt.com  

Heather Harlan brings a wealth of information on a broad range of mental health and wellness topics. Currently, she is working with a County Department of Health. Her experience has also included, adult and adolescent drug and alcohol counseling and has been part of an initiative to support pediatric providers. Heather also serves as a volunteer family group facilitator for NAMI and interestingly in her "spare time" she is a professional storyteller. Heather says her performances are about connecting the audience. Ms. Harlan states, my highest hope is to connect the audience members with each other. The most satisfying level of experience occurs when the audience members can break down walls and interact with each other. Email: hcharlan@gmail.com Web: http://heatherharlan.com  

In today's podcast, I have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Caroline DuPont, she is Vice President of the Institute for Behavior and Health. The IBH mission is to reduce the use of illegal drugs.  In her role as Vice President, she focuses on the areas of addiction treatment and prevention. She maintains a private practice specializing in anxiety and addiction. She was the founding President and Principal Investigator of DuPont Clinical Research, where she directed a team that conducted studies of investigational medication for the anxiety and affective disorders. She is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and by the American Board of Addiction Medicine. She is the co-author of numerous publications and several book chapters on anxiety and addiction.  Before we get into the content, we would like to thank our funder the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Quick note, although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. One Choice Website: https://onechoiceprevention.org

After serving 26 years in law enforcement Cpt. Dana Mitchell spent no time in retirement, transitioning instead to civilian work coordinating Dover Youth to Youth, an empowerment program where students are part of “the solution” to the drug & violence problem. Each year Y2Y conducts a wide variety of programs, including educational presentations; creating & recording video/radio PSAs; and conducting a wide variety of awareness initiatives. In addition to winning several national awards, Dover Y2Y is well known for their multi-media, youth-taught presentations to students and/or adults on implementing youth empowerment programs, capacity building and advocacy skill development. The One Voice Toolkit of resources is available to coalitions and communities with staff & students continuously providing training on site and virtually. Email: mitchell@dover.nh.gov Links: http://dovery2y.org/resources/toolkit/ Resources: https://vimeo.com/dovery2y

Jerry Moe, whose widely emulated work helping young children in families facing addiction has been featured in award-winning projects by Sesame Street in Communities, Nickelodeon and PBS - and whose passion for kids and deep empathy have routinely moved audiences to tears. He recently retired after 43 years as a child counselor and industry icon who brought hope and healing to thousands around the globe. Jerry spent most of his career with the Betty Ford Center and the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, where he was executive director of national Children's Programs. Moe's empathy, emotional connection to kids, and unwavering hope for them, likely stems from his own experiences with a father who struggled with alcoholism, accessed help, and lived his last 38 years sober. Moe is also a cancer survivor, husband, and father of three children of his own. Learn more about Kit for Kids and Kit for Parents https://nacoa.org  Meet Karli and her friends on Sesame Street https://sesamestreetincommunities.org/topics/parental-addiction/   

Cindy Pharis, she is the owner of LiveOak Evaluation Consulting. She started her career in substance use prevention twenty-six years ago in Texas as a professional training coordinator. Since 2012 she has been honing her interest in evaluation and accountability of prevention efforts and launched her own practice in 2015.  According to Cindy she has always been excited by turning data into stories of impact and change. Find Cindy on LinkedIn Email Cindy - cindy@liveoakevaluation.com  Community Toolbox CADCA Evaluation Primer