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

Throughout the episode, these passionate youth leaders share their unique experiences at the forum, discussing what motivated them to attend, how the sessions shaped their views, and what they plan to take back to their communities. They explore the concept of the “prevention influencer,” emphasizing the role of youth in creating positive change and how peer-led initiatives can make prevention efforts more relatable and impactful.

Listeners will hear deeply personal reflections on substance use, leadership, and the importance of cross-cultural collaboration. The episode concludes with these young influencers sharing their upcoming projects, including founding student societies, launching awareness programs, and fostering ongoing partnerships for prevention.

Key Highlights:

• Jigme (Bhutan) discusses the powerful shift in his perception of substance use, learning that people who use substances are victims of their circumstances and deserve empathy and support.
• Shine (India) shares how the forum transformed her views on substance use, helping her develop empathy and awareness. She highlights the need to challenge stigma and redefine what it means to be “cool.”
• Nories (Malaysia) reflects on the importance of using social media to spread prevention messages, particularly around the rise of mushroom vaping among youth in Malaysia.
• Vinay (India) emphasizes the shared challenges faced by communities and the power of collaborative, cross-cultural problem-solving.
• Senuri (Sri Lanka) shares how the forum inspired her to launch a new student society focused on substance use prevention at her university.
• Huy (Vietnam) shares his experience with vulnerable communities affected by substance use and emphasizes the importance of using social media as a tool for prevention influencers.

Memorable Quotes:

• “Youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow—we are the leaders of today.” – Jigme
• “To prevent, we need to show love and provide distractions like sports and community events.” – Nories
• “The key to prevention is empathy, not sympathy. We need to see people as humans first.” – Vinay
• “As youth, we stand as your partners in prevention.” – Senuri

Episode Links:

• https://www.fourthwavefoundation.org/
• https://www.fourthwavefoundation.org/11th-asian-youth-forum/
• https://www.facebook.com/fourthwavefoundation/
• https://www.instagram.com/projectvenda/
• https://www.youtube.com/c/FourthWaveFoundation

Drug Free America Foundation Links:

• Website
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• Twitter

In this special episode of the Pathways 2 Podcast, recorded live at the National Prevention Network (NPN) Conference, we bring you two insightful conversations with leaders who are making a significant impact in the field of prevention.

First, we sit down with Ben Stevenson, who oversees prevention and harm reduction services for Montgomery County, Maryland, and also runs his own consulting firm, Bess Consulting LLC. Ben shares his innovative approach to integrating youth empowerment with harm reduction, his journey in building a successful Youth Ambassador Program, and the challenges of overcoming stigma and navigating county government to drive meaningful change.

Next, we hear from Steve Miller, a prevention champion, podcaster, and man in long-term recovery. Steve takes us through his personal and professional journey, highlighting the powerful role music has played in his recovery and prevention work. He discusses how music serves as a muse, guiding his work and helping others find their path in prevention.

Whether you’re a prevention professional, a community leader, or simply interested in stories of resilience and innovation, this episode is packed with practical insights, inspiration, and a deep dive into what it takes to make a lasting impact in our communities.

Key Takeaways:

• The power of youth-led initiatives in prevention and harm reduction.
• Strategies for overcoming stigma and building community buy-in.
• How music can influence behavior and serve as a tool for prevention.
• The importance of perseverance and adapting strategies to meet community needs.

Drug-Free America Foundation Links:

• Website
• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube
• Twitter

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

Key Takeaways

• Branislava's Background: Learn about Branislava's transition from law to drug policy and her motivation to make a difference in this field.
• International Cooperation: Discover the importance of international cooperation in combating drug abuse and the successes and challenges faced by Serbia.
• Multidisciplinary Approach: Understand how a multidisciplinary approach involving various stakeholders can enhance prevention and recovery efforts.
• Projects and Initiatives: Gain insights into specific projects like the "I Choose Recovery" project and the role of therapeutic communities in Serbia.
• Future Goals: Hear about the future goals of Serbia's Office for Combating Drugs, including the creation of more multidisciplinary teams and local strategies for drug abuse prevention.

Episode Quotes

• "You need to love what you do in order for you to do it as best as you can." – Branislava
• "Prevention is better together. Recovery is better together. Together is better." – Branislava
• "The more prevention you have, the less recovery you will need." – Branislava

Webinar Highlight

If you missed our recent webinar featuring Dr. Roneet Lev, an expert in emergency and addiction medicine, you can watch the recording and access all the resources here. Dr. Lev shares real-life case reports from the emergency department, including cases involving pregnant patients, and brings a wealth of experience from her notable career. Don’t miss this invaluable resource!

Resources and Links

• Webinar Recording
• Recovery Cities

Connect with Us

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Subscribe & Share

Don’t forget to subscribe to the Pathways 2 Prevention podcast and share this episode with a friend. Prevention is better together, and together, we are stronger.

In this powerful episode, Dave Closson sits down with Dr. David Patton, an Associate Professor in Criminology at the University of Derby, for an in-depth conversation about resilience, recovery, and the transformative power of lived experience.

Dr. David Patton shares his journey from growing up in a disadvantaged neighborhood in England to becoming an associate professor in criminology. He discusses the impact of social policies and economic changes on his community and how it shaped his desire to make a difference. Dr. Patton emphasizes the importance of identity, hope, and support from others in overcoming challenges and pursuing education. He also challenges the traditional academic approach to knowledge creation and highlights the value of participatory research methods, such as PhotoVoice, in giving voice to marginalized communities. Dr. David Patton discusses the power of participatory research and the importance of centering lived experiences in understanding addiction and recovery. He shares examples of how participatory research allows communities to own and disseminate their own stories, humanizing the data and challenging stigmatizing narratives. Dr. Patton also emphasizes the need for a strengths-based approach in recovery, focusing on individuals' strengths and building on them for personal growth. He highlights the Global Position Paper on Inclusive Recovery Cities as a collaborative effort to create more inclusive pathways for recovery at the city level.

• Dr. David Patton's Website
• Unnecessary Harm Podcast
• The Global Position Paper on Recovery (GPPR)

Drug Free America Foundation Links:

• Website
• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube
• Twitter

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

What You'll Learn:

• Boomer's personal path through recovery and how it has shaped his approach to helping others.
• The role of gratitude, love, unity, and empowerment in healing and prevention.
• Insights into Boomer's non-profit work with Glue Tampa Bay and the holistic programs they offer to combat substance abuse and foster life skills in youth.
• The innovative ways Boomer integrates technology into recovery and prevention efforts, including the development of a mobile app aimed at supporting those struggling with addiction.
• Strategies for engaging youth and the community in conversations that lead to meaningful change.

If today's episode inspires you, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Your feedback not only helps us improve but also helps others find us. Subscribe to ensure you never miss an episode, and share this podcast with someone who could benefit from today's discussion. Together, we can spread the message of hope and transformation far and wide.

Episode Links:

• https://www.boomerrose.com/
• https://www.facebook.com/boomerroseofficial
• https://www.instagram.com/gratefulboomer/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/boomer-rose/
• https://twitter.com/the_boomerrose
• https://www.humanistictech.com/

Drug Free America Foundation Links:

• Website
• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube
• Twitter

In this podcast episode, Tracey Ford shares her compelling journey from a challenging upbringing in Sheffield, UK, to her remarkable work in the recovery field. Coming from a background of dysfunction, teenage pregnancy, and subsequent struggles with drugs and coercive relationships, Tracey's life took a positive turn after being sectioned due to drug-induced psychosis. Discharged without aftercare and determined to change, she left her past behind, including her partner and a life of crime. Tracey's turning point came with the support of a compassionate GP who encouraged her instead of prescribing drugs. This led to a long and successful career in recovery, where she now devotes her life to helping others through the Sheffield Recovery Community Forum and a women's research project. Tracey's story is a powerful example of post-traumatic growth, showing how adverse experiences can lead to significant personal development and a renewed sense of purpose. Her journey emphasizes the importance of support, resilience, and the ability to reflect and act upon one's experiences. The episode also touches on the concept of post-traumatic growth, the impact of journaling, the complexities of recovery, and Tracey's views on being authentic.

Episode Links:

• https://haveawordwithyourself.co.uk/
• Celebrities and Luminaries Dish It Out: Serving Up Fun at the 2nd Annual Celebrity Luncheon

Drug Free America Foundation Links:

• Website
• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube
• Twitter

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

Key Topics Discussed:

• Introduction to Inclusive Recovery Cities: David Best outlines the genesis of the Inclusive Recovery Cities initiative, its aims, and the significant impact it has had in various communities around the globe.
• The Balkan Recovery Project: Mulka Nisic shares insights into the challenges and successes of implementing recovery initiatives in the Balkans, highlighting the importance of community and governmental support.
• The Power of Recovery Celebrations: The guests discuss the role of public events in promoting recovery, challenging stigma, and fostering a sense of belonging and citizenship among those in recovery.
• Global Recovery Position Paper: Mulka and David delve into the findings from their research, emphasizing the importance of a strengths-based approach, overcoming barriers, and the necessity for systemic change to support recovery.
• Starting Conversations in Local Communities: Practical advice for listeners interested in advocating for or establishing an Inclusive Recovery City in their communities.

Episode Highlights:

• Recovery as a Source of Pride: The episode explores how recovery can shift from being stigmatized to a celebrated aspect of identity, contributing positively to communities.
• Strengths-Based Recovery: The discussion emphasizes focusing on individuals' strengths rather than deficits, fostering resilience, and supporting personal growth.
• Challenges and Solutions: Insights into overcoming obstacles such as stigma, policy gaps, and the need for comprehensive support systems for people in recovery.
• Call to Action: Encouragement for listeners to read the Global Recovery Position Paper, endorse the initiative, and engage in creating inclusive recovery environments in their locales.

Episode Links:

• The Global Position Paper on Recovery (GPPR): https://recovered-users-network.net/gppr/

Drug Free America Foundation Links:

• Website
• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube
• Twitter

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

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

• Amy's Unexpected Path: How a humanities graduate found her calling in the world of drug prevention.
• The Power of Mentorship: The role of guidance and encouragement in shaping Amy's career and outlook.
• Behind the Scenes: A closer look at the Drug Free America Foundation's global efforts in prevention.
• Policy and Prevention: How policy shapes the landscape of drug prevention and the importance of staying adaptable.
• Personal Insights: Amy's reflections on the challenges and rewards of working in drug prevention.
• Advice for Aspiring Advocates: Tips and wisdom for those looking to make a difference in the field of substance abuse prevention.

Drug Free America Foundation Links:

• Website
• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube
• Twitter