In this episode of the Prevention Leaders Podcast, Dave Closson had an enlightening conversation with Susie Reece, a beacon in the realm of suicide prevention. Susie’s approach, shaped profoundly by her own experiences, has turned her personal tragedy into a vigorous fight against mental health stigma and suicide. This episode dives into the poignant insights from Susie's life story that are steering public policy and transforming prevention strategies effectively.

This episode features an in-depth conversation with Trish Luna, an author and speaker from Nashville, on the Prevention Leaders podcast, hosted by Dave Closson. Trish shares her personal journey and the motivations behind her book 'Lambi Learns About Addiction: A Book About Prevention', aimed at helping children navigate the complex emotions and situations arising from familial substance use disorders.

In this compelling episode, we welcome Dr. Emily Klein, an assistant professor at Boston University and leader of the Psychotic Disorders Clinic at Boston Medical Center, to explore the intricate world of mental health and substance use. Dr. Klein shares her extensive experience in clinical psychology, highlighting the transformative impact of motivational interviewing (MI) in therapy. Her journey into MI and its application in overcoming patient resistance in therapy offers a fascinating glimpse into the power of effective communication.

In this compelling episode, we delve into the intricate world of mental health and addiction, guided by the expertise of Jacqueline Hall, Chief Operating Officer of Wired BioHealth and Wired for Addiction. This episode stands out as we blend scientific insight with a deeply personal narrative, offering listeners a unique perspective on the challenges and solutions in the realm of mental health and addiction recovery.

Our host shares their own journey, providing an intimate look at the struggles faced and the triumphs achieved in battling addiction and mental health issues. This personal story serves as a powerful backdrop to the discussion with Jacqueline Hall, who brings her extensive knowledge of the biological components of behavioral wellness.

Key topics include the science behind neurotransmitters and their impact on mental health, the transformative role of biomarker panels in personalizing treatment plans, and the significance of genetic markers in understanding and treating mental health and addiction. The conversation also touches on the importance of empowering individuals with knowledge about their health and encouraging proactive steps toward wellness.

In this deeply inspiring episode, we sit down with Nathan Wray, a Prevention Coordinator and motivational speaker who has turned his personal struggles into a powerful force for change. Nathan shares his journey from battling addiction to empowering youth and communities through emotional regulation and prevention strategies. His story is a testament to the transformative power of resilience, connection, and trust.

In this episode, we have a candid conversation with John, a professional photographer and storyteller. John gives us a glimpse into how he uses photography and storytelling as powerful tools to open dialogue, break barriers, and nurture positive change in communities.

From capturing remarkable moments through his lens to using art for bridging divides, John's work represents his commitment to community engagement and unity. He takes us behind the scenes on how he organizes workshops, creates exhibits, and even publishes books, all hinged on the concept of storytelling.

John also reveals his experiences, sharing insights on being open to different perspectives, bravely addressing social issues, and the crucial role of self-care. Looking forward to the future, he elaborates on his plans for his new projects.

In today's episode, we dive deep into the heart of a topic that's often overlooked but is of paramount importance: the challenges and resilience of military-connected youth. As we navigate the intricate web of their experiences, we uncover the layers of support, understanding, and community that these young individuals need and deserve.

In this episode of the Prevention Leaders podcast, host Dave welcomes Sarah, a Military Family Resiliency Specialist from Kentucky. Sarah, who has been making a significant difference at local, regional, and national levels, delves into her background, growing up in a military family. She shares poignant personal stories, including her father's deployments, her brothers' military experiences, and the tragic loss of her older brother to suicide, which deeply impacted her family.

In this episode, host Dave is joined by Mitch Moore, an experienced prevention specialist, to discuss the importance of community involvement, effective onboarding, and the power of collective impact in the field of prevention. Whether you're new to the field or a seasoned professional, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice that will help you make a meaningful impact in your community.

In this captivating episode, host Dave engages in a profound discussion with Stephen (Shed) Shedletzky​, author of "Speak Up, Culture!" The book delves into fostering a speak-up culture, encouraging open dialogue, transparency, and vulnerability in workplaces and communities. Shed emphasizes the significance of psychological safety, diversity, and inclusive leadership in creating an environment where team members feel valued and heard. Practical strategies and tools are shared, empowering leaders to initiate positive change through effective communication and embracing vulnerability. You are invited to visit the website speakupculture.com for early access to tools and resources, as Shed emphasizes the power of hope and human connection in shaping a better tomorrow.

In this episode, Dave is joined by Laura Stack, the mother behind Johnny's Ambassadors, a non-profit organization dedicated to educating parents and teens about the risks associated with adolescent marijuana use. The organization was named after Laura's son Johnny, who tragically lost his life after struggling with marijuana addiction and the onset of mental health issues. In this conversation, Laura shares the wealth of resources and materials available on Johnny's Ambassador's website, including videos, educational content, toolkits, and even a program for substance abuse counselors. Laura encourages listeners to reach out and make use of these free resources, and also invites them to attend their educational conference. Listen in for a heartfelt discussion on adolescent mental health, the dangers of marijuana use, and the power of preventive education.

In this episode, Jeff Linkenbach shares insights on the Montana Summer Institute, an in-person and virtual event for substance misuse prevention professionals. The event focuses on prevention science, best practices, and transformational leadership, and provides participants with cutting-edge research, tools, and frameworks to apply in their prevention work.

In this episode, prevention specialist and podcast host Nichole Dawsey joins Dave to discuss the importance of building a culture of prevention. They cover topics such as the impact of trauma on substance use, the role of peer support in prevention, and the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing substance use disorder. They also discuss the power of small moments in shaping positive team culture and the magic of the Teen Institute, a transformative leadership opportunity for high school students.

Today, we’re talking about Stigma in rural communities with the Recovery Center of Excellence. We’ll discuss everything there is to know about Stigma in rural communities specifically related to opioid use disorder. The campaign applies the practices of education and contact through art and workshops in rural Appalachian communities. It uses art to dismantle stigma and to humanize those affected by the opioid crisis.

Today, we’re talking about community engagement, facilitation, and what it means to be a prevention leader with Dena Kemp, who is a Southeast Kansas Community Support Specialist.

Today, we’re talking about prevention, facilitation and how to bring those two worlds together. With Steve Miller and Angie Asa-Lovstad, who are prevention leaders and facilitator pros. We’ll discuss everything there is to know about prevention, facilitation, and leadership.

In this episode. we’re talking with Dr. Joel Bennett who is the President of Organizational Wellness & Learning Systems (OWLS), a consulting firm that specializes in evidence-based wellness and e-learning technologies to promote organizational health and employee well-being.

Today, we’re talking about prevention in the higher ed setting with Dr. Allison Smith who facilitates a statewide higher education prevention coalition, provides professional development training for higher education staff and stakeholders, facilitates campus community partnerships and delivers technical assistance around the issue of substance use prevention collegiate communities.

STAND is a coalition of community organizations, businesses, and individuals focused on the health and well-being of the youth in Scott County, Tennessee. They are leading the way in Scott County's alcohol and other drug prevention.

Chief Lees graduated from Indiana University in 1995 with a degree in Criminal Justice. She attended the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy in Bloomington during the summer of 1994 as an IU Police Part-time Police Officer. She was sworn in at the Plainfield Police Department (IN) on May 15, 1995, National Peace Officers Memorial Day.