The Communication Gap in Prevention—and How to Fix It
How does the way you listen shape your ability to lead in prevention?
In this compelling episode of the Prevention Leaders podcast, Dave Closson sits down with communication strategist and suicide prevention advocate Susie Reece to unpack how communication—especially intentional, human-centered listening—can transform your prevention work.
Whether you're training coalitions, leading community conversations, or writing social media posts, this episode will challenge you to rethink how you show up, what you're really saying, and why it all matters.
🎧 Listen Now
▶️ Listen on your favorite platform:
Spotify | Apple | Amazon Music | iHeartRadio | Overcast | Pocket Casts | Radio Public
Prefer YouTube? Scroll down for the YouTube version.
What We Talked About
The difference between "active listening" and truly being present
How to use curiosity to build authentic rapport
Why every email, autoresponder, and DM is part of your prevention strategy
The need for stronger, more unified messaging in the prevention field
How social media and communication style shape public trust and connection
Why It Matters
Prevention is fundamentally about connection—and communication is how we build that connection. But if we’re distracted, reactive, or inconsistent in how we engage, we miss the opportunity to truly support the people we serve. Susie challenges us to view every interaction as a chance to affirm someone’s worth, build trust, and spark change.
5 Things You’ll Learn in This Episode
What active listening really looks like—and why most of us don’t do it enough.
How curiosity unlocks connection, whether in conversation, classrooms, or community outreach.
Why prevention must be strategic with communication, including emails and social media.
The role of messaging and identity in building a recognizable, unified prevention movement.
How intentional communication creates safer spaces, especially in suicide and substance use prevention.
“Prevention isn’t a checklist—it’s how we show up for people.”
Your Next Step
Start small. Today, try one of these:
Send an email with a warm, personal greeting—and close it with kindness.
Ask a colleague or youth participant a thoughtful, curious question—then just listen.
Reflect on how your current communication (in-person or online) represents your values.
Update your out-of-office responder to reflect compassion and purpose.
Reevaluate your prevention messaging—does it feel human, clear, and cohesive?
