Drug Prevention Power Hour: Empowering Leaders in Youth Drug Prevention
In this podcast we explore the world of youth drug prevention. We highlight the things that are working in substance use prevention and learn from one another in the field. This is NOT a show featuring only authors, speakers and founders of companies. We also interview people who are working with youth on a daily basis who can discuss what's currently happening in our schools and communities around the U.S. The Drug Prevention Power Hour is for... Prevention professionals, school counselors, principals, vice principals, social workers, school psychologists, coalitions, prevention specialists, school resource officers (SROs), juvenile justice professionals, parent...
Homelessness, Addiction & the Power of Compassion | Episode 169 with Rogan O’Donnell
In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, Jake White sits down with Rogan O’Donnell, filmmaker, recovery advocate, and director of the award-winning documentary InhuMAINE, to explore homelessness, addiction, recovery, and the importance of compassion in addressing community challenges.
Rogan shares his personal recovery journey, which began at age 19, and explains how a chance encounter with someone living in a homeless encampment in Bangor, Maine, inspired him to create InhuMAINE. Through conversations with individuals experiencing homelessness, community leaders, and service providers, Rogan uncovers the personal stories behind homelessness and challenges the stigma and misconceptions surrounding ad...
Student Leadership, Mental Health & Youth Drug Prevention | Episode 168 with Abigail Swartz
In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, Raegann McDonald sits down with Abigail Swartz, a senior at Mountain Home High School in Arkansas, to discuss youth leadership, mental health awareness, and the power of student-led drug prevention.
Abigail shares how her personal experiences with family addiction and mental health challenges inspired her to get involved in prevention. As a student leader in SEED (Students Educated Against Drugs), she discusses her involvement in school initiatives, including Red Ribbon Week activities, mental health awareness projects, and peer education programs.
She also highlights the importance of...
Emotional Sobriety, Addiction Recovery & Healthy Coping Skills | Episode 167 with Dan Fulop
In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, Jake White sits down with Dan Fulop-Furlano, author of Sincerely Delusional, to explore addiction recovery, emotional sobriety, and the importance of developing healthy ways to cope with life’s challenges.
Dan shares his personal journey from functional alcoholism and drug abuse to recovery, explaining how emotional sobriety helped him understand the underlying struggles behind his addiction. He discusses the importance of recognizing unhealthy patterns, processing difficult emotions, building genuine connections, and learning to respond to life’s challenges rather than relying on substances as an escape.
Toge...
Using Circles and Peer Influence to Build a Positive School Culture | Episode 166 with Pat Fish
In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, Jake White sits down with Pat Fish, founder of Circle Values, to explore how schools can build stronger relationships, positive school culture, and healthy decision-making through circles, play, and peer leadership.
Pat shares the inspiration behind his high five chain activity and explains how simple, fun experiences can encourage students to connect with one another. He also discusses restorative practices, creating safe spaces for honest conversations, and empowering older students to become positive role models for younger peers.
Learn why consistent messaging, student ownership, and meaningful...
4 Ways to Build Sustainable Funding for Prevention | Episode 165 with Jake White
In this special episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, Jake White shares the four fundraising strategies Vive18 uses to build sustainable funding: individual donations, business sponsorships, organization donations, and fundraising events.
Jake also breaks down how Vive18 raised $40,000 in just three months through individual donations, shares practical tips for approaching donors and sponsors, and explains how prevention organizations can build stronger community partnerships.
Whether you're starting a prevention organization or looking for new ways to strengthen your funding, this episode is packed with practical strategies you can put into action.
Takeaways<...
4 Ways to Build Sustainable Funding for Prevention | Episode 165 with Jake White
In this special episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, Jake White shares the four fundraising strategies Vive18 uses to build sustainable funding: individual donations, business sponsorships, organization donations, and fundraising events.
Jake also breaks down how Vive18 raised $40,000 in just three months through individual donations, shares practical tips for approaching donors and sponsors, and explains how prevention organizations can build stronger community partnerships.
Whether you're starting a prevention organization or looking for new ways to strengthen your funding, this episode is packed with practical strategies you can put into action.
Takeaways<...
6 Daily Habits for Lasting Sobriety and Alcohol Recovery | Episode 164 with Jennifer Hirst
After keeping her sobriety private for four years, Jen Lee Hurst found the courage to share her story—and that decision changed the direction of her life. Today, she is a sober coach and the founder of Lighthouse Sobriety, helping women build lives they no longer want to escape from.
In this episode, Jake White talks with Jen about her journey from graphic designer to sober coach, the power of sharing your story, and why connection and community are essential in recovery. Jen also explains the six daily habits she teaches to support sobriety, improve confidence, and cr...
The Art of Advising Student-Led Prevention Clubs | Episode 163 with Kelly Prichard
For 27 years, Kelly Prichard has been quietly transforming lives through student-led prevention clubs at Allen East High School in rural Ohio. In this episode, Jake White sits down with one of the most impactful youth prevention advisors in the country to learn her proven strategies for student engagement, leadership development, and community impact.
Discover how to create meaningful prevention experiences that go beyond one-time events—and learn why the advisor matters just as much as the students. From managing large clubs to creative fundraising to holding students accountable with love and high expectations, Kelly shares the blueprint fo...
How Drug Free Clubs Help Students Say No | Episode 162 with Angie Ferguson & Dave Huggins
Drug Free Clubs of America (DFCA) is revolutionizing how schools approach substance abuse prevention. In this episode, Jake White welcomes back Angie Ferguson and introduces Dave Huggins, Program Development Specialist, to discuss how their innovative program gives students tools to say no, builds community around drug-free choices, and creates powerful social proof that choosing to stay drug-free is the cool choice.
Learn how voluntary drug testing, peer-led incentives, and student-run events like the annual Fall Rally are changing school culture and helping 99.5% of participating students test negative for drugs.
Takeaways
Students are...
Youth Prevention Advocate at 13: Turning Tragedy Into Change | Episode 161 with Mariah
Meet Mariah, a 13-year-old prevention advocate from Petaluma, California, who is already making an impact in the drug prevention field. After losing her brother to an overdose at age five, Mariah transformed her grief into purpose.
In this episode, she shares how she found her voice as an advocate, spoke publicly about her family's experience with addiction, attended the Fentanyl Free America convention after being nominated by the DEA, helped advocate for Narcan access in her community, and is now pushing for stronger drug prevention education in schools.
Mariah also opens up about the stigma...
Embracing Your Role as a Prevention Coach | Episode 160 with Jake White
In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, Jake White takes you inside one of Vive18’s prevention leadership courses to explore what it means to truly embrace your role as a coach. Jake shares practical strategies for moving from doing everything yourself to empowering students to lead, make decisions, learn from failure, and develop their leadership skills. He breaks down the difference between transactional and transformational leadership and explains how high expectations, accountability, support, and love can help create stronger, more sustainable student-led prevention programs.
Takeaways
Empower students to take ownership and le...
Recovery, Resilience & Rebuilding Your Life | Episode 159 with Marci Hopkins
Recovery is about more than overcoming addiction—it's about rediscovering hope, healing from trauma, and creating a life filled with purpose.
In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, Jake White sits down with Marci Hopkins recovery advocate, author, TV host, and speaker—to discuss her personal recovery journey and the lessons she's learned about resilience, mental health, and lasting transformation. Marci shares practical strategies for overcoming shame, building self-worth, and helping others realize that they're not broken—they're capable of change.
Takeaways
Recovery is about getting your life back, not giving...
Vive18 Prevention Arcade Launch + Major Updates | Episode 158 with Jake White
In this special episode, Jake White recaps the biggest highlights from Vive18 this year and shares exclusive opportunities for prevention professionals and youth leaders. From the groundbreaking Prevention Innovators Conference to youth leadership camps and professional trainings across 6+ states, discover what's happening in the prevention field and how you can get involved.
Jake White also unveils the brand new Vive18 Prevention Arcade a free, interactive game-based learning tool designed to make prevention education fun and engaging. This is a world premiere showing of the arcade games with live gameplay demonstrations.
Takeaways
Prevention...
Being a Passionate Prevention Networker | Episode 157 with Ebony Manning
Ebony Manning is a Prevention Specialist for Trinity Behavioral Care in South Carolina and host of "The Art of Recovery" podcast. In this episode, she shares her journey from military spouse to passionate community organizer, revealing how boots-on-the-ground networking, authentic relationships, and strategic partnerships transform prevention work. Discover how she implemented Too Good for Drugs as a consequence alternative in schools and built trust that opens doors with key stakeholders.
Ebony discusses the power of showing up, asking the right questions, leveraging existing relationships, and being a genuine resource in your community.
Takeaways<...
Creating Champions in Prevention | Episode 156 with Trevon Norman
In this episode, Trevon Norman, a Certified Prevention Specialist and Coalition Coordinator from Texas, shares his journey from youth ministry and childcare into prevention. He explains how authentic relationships, servant leadership, and empowering others can help build stronger coalitions and create lasting community impact.
Takeaways
Lead with genuine passion people invest in authentic leaders.
Give others opportunities to contribute their time, talents, and resources.
Recognize people for their individual strengths, not just their roles or organizations.
Build trust by showing up, staying connected, and investing in relationships.
Empower youth and...
How Technology is Transforming Substance Use Prevention | Episode 155 with Nicole Augustine
In this episode, Nicole Augustine shares her journey into prevention work, her innovative projects, and insights on certification and field growth. Discover how technology and strategic thinking are transforming prevention efforts.
Takeaways
Leverage AI to identify evidence-based programs quickly.
Certification enhances credibility and career growth.
Prevention field needs systemic value and recognition.
Build community and connections to sustain prevention work.
Innovate and adapt to keep prevention relevant.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolemaugustine/
Website: https://rizeconsultants.com/
For feedback, questions and new episode ideas...<...
How to Expand School Prevention Initiatives with Youth Leadership | Episode 154 with Joe Tracey
Join us as Joe Tracey shares his innovative youth-led prevention programs, success stories, and insights on building sustainable school initiatives. Discover how youth empowerment and community partnerships are transforming prevention efforts.
Takeaways
Persistence is key to building school partnerships.
Youth ownership drives program success.
Real experiences create lasting impact.
Building relationships is essential for expansion.
Flexibility and trust empower youth leaders.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WayOutWestCoalition
Website: https://www.wayoutwestcoalition.org/
For feedback, questions and new episode ideas...
jake...
How Movement Rewires the Brain and Heals Emotions | Episode 153 with Pearl Cicci
Pearl shares her inspiring journey from grief to healing through dance, neuroscience, and movement. Discover how movement can process emotions, rewire the brain, and create safe spaces for authentic expression.
Takeaways
Movement helps complete emotional cycles and releases trapped energy.
Dance can be a powerful tool for healing trauma and mental health issues.
Creating safe environments encourages authentic self-expression.
Understanding the nervous system is key to designing effective healing spaces.
Leadership in social settings can influence others to feel safe and free.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelitrave<...
Brightn Mental Health App | Episode 152 with Jeff Johnson and Dr. Richard Lopez
In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, Jake White sits down with Jeff Johnston, founder of Brighton, and Dr. Richard Lopez to discuss how AI-powered journaling and reflective tools are helping students improve mental health, reduce anxiety and depression, and build stronger social connections.
They share powerful personal stories, results from Brighton’s first college pilot study, and how schools and prevention programs can use innovative tools to support students before they reach a crisis point.
If you care about youth mental health, prevention, and creating healthier communities, this is an episode you do...
How High Achievers Maintain Sobriety Episode 151 with Greg Johnson
In this episode, Greg Johnson shares his inspiring journey from addiction to sobriety, his work in spiritual and sober coaching for high achievers, and practical insights on maintaining sobriety through spiritual practices and community support.
Takeaways
Embracing all experiences, including struggles, deepens spiritual growth.
Gratitude for past hardships can diminish cravings and propels recovery.
Building a strong spiritual foundation helps withstand life's challenges.
Website: https://www.soberheart.org
For feedback, questions and new episode ideas...
[email protected]
instagram.com/vive18_
HopeStream: A Family's Journey from Crisis to Community | Episode 150 Brenda Zane
Brenda Zane shares her powerful journey through her son's substance misuse and overdose, leading to the creation of HopeStream Community. This episode offers insights into prevention, intervention, and hope for families dealing with addiction.
Takeaways
Early intervention and understanding the reasons behind substance use are crucial.
Parents should approach conversations with curiosity, not judgment.
The craft approach offers a structured, evidence-based method for family support.
HopeStream provides a private, resource-rich community for families.
Youth brain plasticity offers a window of opportunity for recovery.
For feedback, questions and new episode ideas...<...
The Power of Personal Stories in Drug Prevention | Episode 149 with Ryan Jensen
Ryan Jensen, a former medical examiner and death investigator with 16 years of experience, shares his personal journey and insights into the opioid crisis, drug prevention, and mental health. This episode explores the realities of substance abuse, effective prevention strategies, and the importance of resilience and community effort.
Takeaways
Ryan Jensen's personal journey with addiction and loss
The role of death investigations in understanding overdose
Effective strategies for youth drug prevention
The importance of mental health and resilience in prevention
Website: https://www.ryanjensenspeaks.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin...
A Community-Centered Approach to the Opioid Crisis | Episode 148 with Dave Suckling
In this episode, Chief of Police Dave Suckling shares his innovative approach to combating the opioid epidemic in New Hampshire. Discover how community engagement, destigmatizing language, and recovery programs are transforming law enforcement's role in prevention and recovery.
Takeaways
Law enforcement can play a pivotal role in overdose prevention beyond arrests.
Destigmatizing language fosters trust and improves recovery outcomes.
Community support and peer programs are crucial for sustainable recovery.
Proactive measures like Narcan distribution significantly reduce overdose deaths.
Partnerships between police and recovery organizations enhance intervention effectiveness.
For...
Resilient Minds: Lessons from Inspiring Teachers | Episode 147 with Laura Pollman and Dawn Murphy
In this episode, former teachers Laura Pullman and Dawn Murphy share their inspiring journeys, teaching philosophies, and the impact of education on students' lives. They discuss resilience, community involvement, and advice for students aiming for success.
Takeaways
Teaching is hard but rewarding, driven by a bigger purpose.
Building trust and relationships with students creates lasting impact.
Curiosity and empathy are key traits of successful students.
Sharing personal stories helps students feel understood and supported.
For feedback, questions and new episode ideas...
[email protected]
instagram.com/vive18_<...
From Hardship to Hope | Episode 146 with Ted Huntington
In this episode, Ted Huntington shares his inspiring journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a leader in youth prevention. He discusses the importance of community building, resilience programs, and the power of hope and faith in transforming lives.
Takeaways
Personal stories of overcoming adversity fuel effective prevention work.
Community collaboration and shared vision are key to successful coalitions.
The Thrive Curriculum is flexible, activity-driven, and adaptable for all ages.
Prevention is more than facts; it's about instilling hope and faith.
Sustainable impact requires balancing passion with business acumen.
<...
Hooked on Alcohol-Free Travel | Episode145 ft. Darci Murray
Darci Murray, founder of Hooked Alcohol-Free Travel, shares her inspiring journey of creating alcohol-free travel experiences for youth and adults. Discover how her innovative trips foster confidence, safety, and life-changing moments without alcohol, and learn how this model can transform perceptions of fun and adventure.
Instagram @hookedalcoholfreetravel
Dry Grad Trips https://hooked-on-travel.com/trips/dry-grad/Â
For feedback, questions and new episode ideas...
[email protected]
instagram.com/vive18_
Teaching Kids to Overcome Fear with Adventure Stories | Episode 144 ft. Robert DeMayo
Join us as Robert Louis DeMayo shares captivating explorer stories and insights on fear, resilience, and curiosity. Discover how storytelling can inspire and teach life-saving lessons, especially for youth and educators.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RobertLouisDeMayo
Website: https://robertlouisdemayo.com/
For feedback, questions and new episode ideas...
[email protected]
instagram.com/vive18_
Voices That Heal: Mentorship, Storytelling, and Community Action | Episode 143 ft. Dr. Jose Silva
In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, Dr. Jose Silva shares his inspiring journey from a traumatic childhood to becoming a leader in youth advocacy and drug prevention. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship, community support, and legislative engagement in empowering young people. Dr. Silva discusses the concept of epigenetic trauma and its impact on youth, advocating for a holistic approach to education and mental health. He encourages young people to use their voices in advocacy and highlights the significance of storytelling in creating change. The conversation concludes with insights on community engagement and the collaborative efforts...
Where Youth Voices Become Change | Episode 142 with Daniel Senior
In this conversation, hosts Raegann McDonald and Daniel Senior explore the journey of youth advocacy in prevention work, discussing their backgrounds, the importance of leadership, and the challenges faced in the field. They emphasize the significance of community support, youth engagement, and collaboration in addressing substance abuse and mental health issues. The discussion also highlights the barriers encountered in advocacy, the impact of relationships, and the personal growth that comes from working in this challenging yet rewarding field.
Takeaways
Reggie McDonald introduces himself as a replacement host.
Daniel Senior shares his background and...
Youth-Led Mental Health Advocacy | Episode 141 with Isabelle Blackwood
In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Reagan McDonald interviews Isabelle Blackwood, a passionate advocate for mental health and prevention work. Isabelle shares her personal journey, including the challenges she faced growing up, her involvement in Y-Link, and the various projects she has spearheaded to address mental health issues in her community. The conversation highlights the importance of support, personal experiences, and the transformative power of advocacy work, especially in youth-led initiatives.
Takeaways
Isabelle's journey into prevention began at a young age.
Personal experiences with loss and mental health shaped...
Recovery Through Connection | Episode 140 with Matthew Williams
In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Vive18 speaks with Matthew Williams, who shares his inspiring journey of recovery since May 17, 2010. Matthew discusses his work in the recovery movement, his passion for health and nutrition, and the creation of his snack bar company, Fro Pro. The conversation delves into the importance of community, mentorship, and the challenges of substance use, as well as the significance of living a selfless life. Matthew emphasizes the need for connection and support in recovery and encourages listeners to share their stories and ask for help.
Website: https://www...
Building Bridges Through Prevention | Episode 139 with Melissa Moore
In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White welcomes Melissa Moore, a seasoned prevention specialist with over 25 years in public health. Melissa shares her journey into prevention, beginning in junior high and evolving through various public health roles. She emphasizes the power of building relationships and community connections to create healthier environments. The conversation also explores challenges like funding and sustainability in prevention work, highlighting the need for long-term strategies over quick fixes. Melissa encourages a shift in perspective, focusing on relationship-building as a key to successful prevention.
Links: m3-consultingllc.com
<...Building Youth Voices in Drug Prevention | Student Takeover Episode 138 with Zachary Dixon
In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Raegann McDonald speaks with Zach Dixon, a passionate advocate for substance misuse prevention. Zach shares his journey from high school to becoming a leader in the STAND organization, discussing the importance of mental health, innovative community engagement projects, and the challenges of reaching youth. The conversation highlights the significance of personal experiences in driving advocacy and the impact of supportive relationships in fostering leadership skills.
Link:
https://www.instagram.com/stand.ks
For feedback, questions and new episode ideas...
[email protected]
...
From Loss to Leadership | Student Takeover Episode 137 with Dejon Osborne
In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White engages in a heartfelt conversation with Dejan, a passionate advocate for drug prevention and youth empowerment. They discuss Dejan's journey with Vive18, the importance of understanding one's 'why' in the fight against addiction, and the impact of personal stories in shaping community initiatives. Dejan shares his experiences, including the loss of his brother to addiction, and emphasizes the need for connection and support among youth. The conversation also touches on leadership, the significance of starting small in community projects, and the vision for a brighter future for...
Faith, Discipline & Recovery | Episode 136 with Jennifer Evans
In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White speaks with Jennifer Evans, a recovery advocate and nonprofit leader, about her journey from addiction to advocacy. Jennifer shares her personal story of overcoming substance abuse, the importance of community support in recovery, and practical strategies for relapse prevention. The conversation emphasizes the significance of faith, discipline, and coping skills in maintaining sobriety and finding purpose in helping others.
Takeaways
The Art of Advocating | Student Takeover Episode 135 with Brady Clark
This week on the Student Takeover, Brady Clark shares his story of resilience and advocacy. He tells host Raegann McDonald about how he uses his personal experiences to guide the work that he does, giving back to others and amplifying the voices of youth. They discuss the importance of relationship building in prevention work, as well as how it benefits you are speaking with other professionals. Brady shares his experiences advocating to state and national legislatures, as well as how he got other youth involved and gives practical advice on how to get your foot in the door with...
Victoria's Voice: A Mission of Hope and Prevention | Episode 134 with Leah Shepherd
In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White speaks with Leah Shepard, the executive director of Victoria's Voice, about the organization's mission to combat the opioid crisis through naloxone awareness, education, and community engagement. Leah shares the story behind Victoria's Voice, the importance of naloxone, and the impact of personal stories of recovery. They discuss the need for parental involvement in prevention efforts and the formation of the Angel Army, a coalition of bereaved parents advocating for change. The episode concludes with insights on advocacy and the establishment of National Naloxone Awareness Day.
<...
Creating a Culture of Care in Schools | Episode 133 with Dr. Ashlee Boothe
In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White speaks with Dr. Ashlee Boothe, an educator and mentor who shares her inspiring journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a passionate advocate for student success. They discuss the importance of building a positive school culture, community engagement, and the role of mentorship in education. Dr. Boothe emphasizes the need for strong relationships between educators and students, and shares practical strategies for effective classroom management and fostering student connections.
Takeaways
Dr. Boothe emphasizes the importance of a positive school culture.
Community...
Camping, Conferencing and CRUISING for Prevention | Episode 132 with Jake White
In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White discusses the importance of innovation in drug prevention efforts, celebrating student leadership, and sharing effective funding strategies. He emphasizes the need for building youth capacity in prevention, leveraging online presence and SEO for outreach, and announces an upcoming prevention cruise conference. The episode concludes with a call to action for community engagement and support in prevention initiatives.
Website & Social Media Handles:
https://www.vive18.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@vive18
https://www.facebook.com/thevive18/
...
Finding Your Lane–Prevention is for Everyone | (Student Takeover) Episode 131 with Allie Leib
In this engaging conversation, Allie Leib, a high school senior and founder of the LEAD prevention club, shares her journey of leadership and community service. She discusses her experiences in high school, the challenges she faced, and her passion for helping others avoid substance abuse. Allie emphasizes the importance of mentorship, community, and making choices that positively impact one's future. Her story is an inspiring testament to youth leadership and the power of prevention efforts in schools.
Links:
Instagram: lead.onhs
For feedback, questions and new episode ideas...
[email protected]
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