In this two-part episode titled 'Mental Health & Drug Use Pt. 1,' Jodie and esteemed co-host Dr. Krystal, an adolescent psychiatrist, along with psychotherapist and author Amy Morin delve into the intricate dynamics between mental well-being and drug use among youth. Honoring Mental Health Awareness Week, the trio engages in an insightful conversation that illuminates the linkages between self-medication, stress, and self-esteem challenges, offering profound insights into the intricate struggles facing today's young generation. By providing practical advice, sharing recommended resources, and unveiling eye-opening perspectives, this two-part episode aims to equip parents, educators, and all concerned individuals with the tools to navigate the complex landscape of mental health and drug use, fostering understanding and unwavering support.  Through engaging discussions, the episode underscores the importance of transparent communication, recognizing subtle signals, and distinguishing between stress and anxiety. By promoting an atmosphere of empathy and informed guidance, this two-part episode stands as an enlightening beacon, urging us all to champion the mental well-being of the next generation.   Key Takeaways: Dr. Krystal provides expert guidance on identifying and addressing mental health concerns in youth, emphasizing the role of therapists. Differentiating between stress and anxiety equips listeners to recognize signs and initiate supportive conversations. Navigating the digital age's information landscape involves promoting responsible online behavior, seeking professional guidance, and encouraging open family discussions. Amy Morin provides methods for instilling resilience, confidence, and purpose in youth. The episode underscores the importance of cultivating mindfulness and emotional well-being in both parents and children through a potent meditation session led by Dr. Krystal.   Jodie Sweetin is an actress, author, and advocate, best known for her role as Stephanie Tanner on the iconic sitcom "Full House" and its sequel "Fuller House". In 2009 she penned her memoir, "unSweetined", which chronicles her journey through addiction and into recovery. With her frank and open approach, Jodie has emerged as a compelling speaker and advocate who now seeks to use her platform and experiences to educate others and reduce the stigma associated with addiction and recovery. @jodiesweetin Dr. Krystal M. Lewis is a licensed Clinical Psychologist at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). She received her PhD from Virginia Tech and completed clinical training at Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. Dr. Lewis is passionate about the provision of clinical care, training, and mentorship and uses culturally informed, developmentally appropriate, and evidence-based approaches. Her clinical and research interests are focused on identifying mechanisms of change in psychological treatment for pediatric anxiety disorders. She has a small private practice where she provides assessment, treatment and psychoeducational testing to children, adolescents, and adults. She is a Board member for the Anxiety and Depression Association of America and a member of the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies. @DrKrystalLewis Amy Morin is a psychotherapist, international bestselling author and the host of the Mentally Stronger podcast. Her books on mental strength, including 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do, have sold more than 1 million copies and been translated into more than 40 languages. She’s practiced therapy for over 20 years and she’s a sought after speaker whose TEDx talk, The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong, has become one of the most popular talks of all time with more than 22 million views. Amy lives on a sailboat in the Florida Keys. Elks: As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people!  DEA: The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA enforces controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the largest and most effective antidrug organization in the world, with 241 domestic locations in 23 field divisions and 93 international field divisions in 69  countries.   Resources/Links SAMHSA | Help and Treatment Get Smart About Drugs Growing Up Drug Free: A Parent’s Guide to Substance Use Prevention One Pill Could Kill   DEA Website DEA on Instagram DEA on Twitter DEA on Facebook DEA YouTube Channel   Elks Kid Zone Website Elks Drug Awareness Program Website Elks DAP on Twitter Elks DAP on Facebook Elks DAP on YouTube   Jodie Sweetin’s Links Jodie’s Instagram Jodie’s TikTok   Krystal Lewis’s Links: Krystal’s Twitter   Amy Morin’s Links Amy’s Website: https://amymorinlcsw.com/ Amy’s Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mentally-stronger-with-therapist-amy-morin/id1687655510 Amy’s Books: https://amymorinlcsw.com/books-by-amy-morin/ Amy’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amymorinauthor/ Amy’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MentallyStrongerPodcast/videos   Links Mentioned National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) - Child and Adolescent Mental Health CDC Children's Mental Health  

As your teenager approaches the exhilarating yet nerve-wracking milestone of obtaining their driver's license, join us for a compelling episode titled "New Drivers, New Dangers: Navigating Substance Use with Teen Drivers." In this insightful conversation, our expert hosts, Amy, Jodie, and Rick, delve into the critical juncture of teenage peer pressure, drug use, and driving safety.   This episode is a comprehensive guide for parents and guardians, offering invaluable strategies to ensure the safety and well-being of young drivers. With a focus on proactive preparation, the hosts explore essential topics such as building smart pedestrian habits, refining driving skills, and addressing the unique challenges posed by adolescent brain development. From fostering open conversations about driving under the influence to utilizing technology and contracts to promote responsible behaviors, this episode empowers parents to guide their teen drivers through these potentially hazardous scenarios. Join us for a compelling discussion that provides you with the essential tools needed to navigate the road ahead and ensure the safety of your young drivers.   Key Takeaways: Proactive preparation is crucial as teens obtain their driver's license, requiring parents' guidance to navigate potential risks. Fostering smart pedestrian habits and consistent skill refinement contribute to driving competence and overall road safety. Differentiating between behaviors and driving decisions helps teens make responsible choices and avoid driving under the influence (DUI). Open conversations, starting with initial dialogue, establish a foundation for discussing sensitive topics such as drug use and driving. Creating a safe haven at home encourages discussions about drug use and driving, while contracts engage teens in the process. Utilizing technology like apps and advanced drivers' education enhances monitoring and promotes responsible driving behaviors. Acknowledging the impact of drugs on driving abilities and emphasizing responsible choices is paramount for teen drivers' safety. Jodie Sweetin is an actress, author, and advocate, best known for her role as Stephanie Tanner on the iconic sitcom "Full House" and its sequel "Fuller House". In 2009 she penned her memoir, "unSweetined", which chronicles her journey through addiction and into recovery. With her frank and open approach, Jodie has emerged as a compelling speaker and advocate who now seeks to use her platform and experiences to educate others and reduce the stigma associated with addiction and recovery.   Dr. Krystal M. Lewis is a licensed Clinical Psychologist at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). She received her PhD from Virginia Tech and completed clinical training at Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. Dr. Lewis is passionate about the provision of clinical care, training, and mentorship and uses culturally informed, developmentally appropriate, and evidence-based approaches. Her clinical and research interests are focused on identifying mechanisms of change in psychological treatment for pediatric anxiety disorders. She has a small private practice where she provides assessment, treatment and psychoeducational testing to children, adolescents, and adults. She is a Board member for the Anxiety and Depression Association of America and a member of the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies.   Rick Birt is the current Director of the Washington, DC Highway Safety Office and an international expert in mobility safety. In this role, Rick works with stakeholders across the District to leverage educational programs, public outreach, and equitable enforcement to keep the traveling public safe. Over the past decade, Rick has worked with youth organizations, government bodies, and safety advocates to raise the safety profile of pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists alike. In his previous role, Rick led Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD), the nation's largest youth prevention and activism organization, serving for five years as the President and CEO and in various roles before that. He has authored numerous publications on teen traffic safety and is frequently called upon by the media to help parents and other adult allies become the driving coach their new drivers need. Rick is a graduate of Wittenberg University, where he obtained a bachelor's Degree in Political Science and Urban Studies, and the Ohio State University where he received his Master's in Public Administration and Leadership.   Elks: As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people!    DEA: The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA enforces controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the largest and most effective antidrug organization in the world, with 241 domestic locations in 23 field divisions and 93 international field divisions in 69  countries.   Resources/Links SAMHSA | Help and Treatment Get Smart About Drugs Growing Up Drug Free: A Parent’s Guide to Substance Use Prevention One Pill Could Kill   DEA Website DEA on Instagram DEA on Twitter DEA on Facebook DEA YouTube Channel   Elks Kid Zone Website  Elks Drug Awareness Program Website  Elks DAP on Twitter Elks DAP on Facebook Elks DAP on YouTube   Jodie Sweetin’s Links Jodie’s Instagram Jodie’s TikTok   Rick Birt’s Links RIck’s Instagram Rick’s TikTok Rick’s Twitter   Links Mentioned NIH (National Institutes of Health) on Teen Substance Abuse SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) Teen Resources National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) - Teen Driving NHTSA's "If You Feel Different, You Drive Different" Campaign Sample Parent-Teen Driving Agreement from CDC

Host Jodie Sweetin is joined by Amy McCarthy, Director of Social Work for the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program (ASAP) at Boston Children's Hospital; Bob Sabouni Executive Producer of Awkward Conversations and actor and directorJake Busey.  Someday your child will ask you if you used drugs. What will you say when that question comes your way? Does genetics play a part in the predisposition to drug abuse? Today our panel discusses these questions and more on Awkward Conversations. Don’t miss this episode.    IN THIS EPISODE: [00:00] Season One clip of conversation between parents deciding how much to tell their children about their drug experimentation.   [02:21] Clinical findings on the effect a parent’s past drug use has on a child [03:33] Programs designed for the family or friend of an abuser and accepting the fact that addiction is a medical condition [10:12] The struggle of what to say to your child [16:26] Being honest with your child without laying out details [19:45] Bottom line advice KEY TAKEAWAYS: The drugs available today are far different than those 15 or 20 years ago.  They were  terrible for you and detrimental to your health.  Today the drugs on the streets can kill you. Parents don’t have all the answers.  It is ok to tell your child that you will research their question when you don’t know the answer.  Then do the research and understand why drug use is detrimental so you can give your child reasons. One pill can kill! It doesn’t matter whether a parent did or didn’t do drugs.  The pills today can kill. A child can make better choices when he has truthful information.   ***DISCLAIMER***The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Awkward Conversation series are solely those of the individuals, speakers, commentators, experts, and or hosts involved and do not necessarily reflect nor represent those of the production, associates or broadcaster, or any of its employees. Production is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the series available for viewing. The primary purpose of this series is to educate and inform. This series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This series is available for private, non-commercial use only. The production, broadcaster, or its channel cannot be held accountable for all or any views expressed during this program. Resources: SAMHSA Find Treatment   Emoji Decoder  DEA Takeback Website Growing Up Drug-Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention One Pill Could Kill Never Thought I’d Say This Podcast with Jodie Sweetin Team Upstandards with Trevor Donovan Get Smart About Drugs Website Elks Kid Zone Website Elks Drug Awareness Program Website Elks DAP on Twitter Elks DAP on Facebook Elks DAP on YouTube DEA Website DEA on Instagram DEA on Twitter DEA on Facebook DEA YouTube Channel     Watch Awkward Conversations Season 1 the series: Awkward Breakfast Conversations - Ep. 1 Awkward Lunch Conversations - Ep. 2 Awkward Dinner Conversations - Ep. 3      Bios:   Jodie Sweetin is an American actress and television personality known for her role as Stephanie Tanner in the ABC comedy series Full House and its Netflix sequel series Fuller House. Jodie is joined by Content Expert Amy McCarthy, a Senior Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital. Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is the Director of Social Work for the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program (ASAP) at Boston Children's Hospital, where she provides direct clinical and programmatic support. Additionally, Amy has extensive experience working in community-based settings providing care to young people with complex mental health needs and their families. As the former director of the Boston-Suffolk County Family Resource Center, she worked with an abundance of community partners to ensure residents had access to vital resources to meet basic needs and beyond. Amy received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW) from Siena College and earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Wheelock College Jake Busey spent his childhood in sunny southern California, as well as a plethora of film sets around the country. His childhood was similar to a "military brat", a series of strung-together extended-stay location shoots, alternating with tours on the road with his father's various bands and associates. In a world of gypsies & artists, spending many years on tour buses and side-stage-studying such acts as Willie Nelson, Leon Russell, Little Feat, the Band, and Fleetwood Mac, Jake found his passion for music and performing live. Busey entered the industry at the age of 5 in his first motion picture, Dustin Hoffman's opus, "Straight Time" (1977), playing Son to his father and Cathy Bates. After finishing high school at Crossroads School and college in Santa Barbara, Jake returned to L.A to study the craft of acting for film seriously. He started auditioning at 20yrs old and booked his first role in a PBS film, "Shimmer," shot on location in Iowa. Slowly but surely, bit parts playing supporting characters in independent films would follow. After a few years of hard work and little returns, He was Cast as the villain in Showtimes "rebel highway series" Motorcycle Gang by Director John Milius. The film was part of an eight-film series and drew great attention amongst the "up and coming actor" buzz of Hollywood. He made his true debut on the big screen in 1994 alongside Stephen Dorff and Reese Witherspoon in the grind house grunge film "SFW," but that Buzz caught the eye of Robert Zemekis & Peter Jackson, which led jake to star opposite Michael J. Fox in the Frighteners. .soon after wrapping, big changes came from a 3-page monologue about religion vs. science when he landed "Contact" with Jodi Foster and Matthew McConnaghey. Then "Enemy of the State", then Vince Gilligan scribed "Home Fries," and most memorably as the smart-mouthed Private Ace Levy in the Sci-Fi cult classic "Starship Troopers." Jake was a force to be reckoned with in the late 1990s A-list film market. Then in the early 21st century, after the great success of "Identity," Jake took some risks with projects, and leaps of faith, stepping up into starring roles in such studio disasters as "Tomcats" and "the First 20 Million is always the hardest", Films hyped to glory among the Hollywood machine, which failed miserably, and left him needing to reassess his position. It was time for a break. Some time away was needed.   After a few-year hiatus from acting as he pursued directing films, "road-tripping" the country, and playing in his band around Hollywood, he was ready for his come-back. Jake blasted onscreen as a pyrotechnic specialist in the final season of FX's hit series "Justified", leaving many an audience member aghast, having thought he was a solid new addition to the show...alas, just a masterfully crafted cameo, blowing up in 30 seconds. When Robert Rodriguez cast him as the new Sex Machine for all three seasons of "From Dusk Till Dawn, Things started heating up again. In The History Channel mini-series "Texas Rising," Busey plays Samuel Wallace, the man credited with reciting the legendary warning, "Remember the Alamo!" directed by Roland Joffe.   His recent projects include "Mr. Robot", and Stranger Things", Showtime's "Ray Donovan," CBS television's "NCIS" Episode 346(1516), ABC's "Marvels agents of S.H.E.I.L.D.., Episode 513 & 519, and in the summer of 2018, he made his return to the summer tent-pole event scene with 20th Century Fox's "the_Predator".   A bit of a modern-day Renaissance man, Jake's passions in life includes fatherhood, acting, desert racing, architecture, playing music, flying planes when necessary, and fabricating anything mechanical in his metal shop.  

Host Jodie Sweetin is joined by Amy McCarthy, Dr. Aida Balsano, Director for Prevention Communications and Public Engagement at the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, and Robert Vincent, Associate Administrator for Alcohol Prevention and Treatment Policy at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Ultimately our goal is to help parents have“The Talk.” If it hasn’t happened yet, then let’s be prepared…if it has, how did it go? If you screwed it up, no worries. Let’s figure out how to get it right. But, on the other hand, if you feel it went well, take this as a reminder that the talk is not a one-off, let’s figure out what’s next in this constant battle to keep those we love more than life itself safe! Today our panel discusses the consequences of substance abuse. Learn why explaining the “why” is essential when talking to your child. IN THIS EPISODE: [00:00] Overview of The Talk - Part 2 [01:46] The knowledge your child has regarding drugs may be faulty [05:49] How does a parent cope with feelings of betrayal and dishonesty? Should there be  consequences for bad behavior [10:18] The importance of telling a child why this behavior is bad for them [12:54] How the drugs have changed over the years [19:36] Upcoming episode of Awkward Conversations KEY TAKEAWAYS: Kids don’t look at the consequences of drug use. They don’t frame it as health, wellness, or well-being. Instead, they only think about the future and need to hear why drugs harm them. Parents need to be listening and present.  A “behavior contract,” or reward and consequences, should be clear to everyone. Likewise, there should be inevitable consequences for certain behaviors.  The potency of drugs has changed.  They are more potent than they have ever been.  And the sad thing about that fact is that the wrong pill can kill.     ***DISCLAIMER***The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Awkward Conversation series are solely those of the individuals, speakers, commentators, experts, and or hosts involved and do not necessarily reflect nor represent those of the production, associates or broadcaster, or any of its employees. Production is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the series available for viewing. The primary purpose of this series is to educate and inform. This series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This series is available for private, non-commercial use only. The production, broadcaster, or its channel cannot be held accountable for all or any views expressed during this program. Resources: SAMHSA Find Treatment   Emoji Decoder  DEA Takeback Website Growing Up Drug-Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention One Pill Could Kill Never Thought I’d Say This Podcast with Jodie Sweetin Team Upstandards with Trevor Donovan Get Smart About Drugs Website Elks Kid Zone Website Elks Drug Awareness Program Website Elks DAP on Twitter Elks DAP on Facebook Elks DAP on YouTube DEA Website DEA on Instagram DEA on Twitter DEA on Facebook DEA YouTube Channel   Watch Awkward Conversations Season 1 the series: Awkward Breakfast Conversations - Ep. 1 Awkward Lunch Conversations - Ep. 2 Awkward Dinner Conversations - Ep. 3      Bios:   Jodie Sweetin is an American actress and television personality known for her role as Stephanie Tanner in the ABC comedy series Full House and its Netflix sequel series Fuller House. Jodie is joined by Content Expert Amy McCarthy, a Senior Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital. Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is the Director of Social Work for the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program (ASAP) at Boston Children's Hospital, where she provides direct clinical and programmatic support. Additionally, Amy has extensive experience working in community-based settings providing care to young people with complex mental health needs and their families. As the former director of the Boston-Suffolk County Family Resource Center, she worked with an abundance of community partners to ensure residents had access to vital resources to meet basic needs and beyond. Amy received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW) from Siena College and earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Wheelock College. Rob Vincent serves as the Associate Administrator for Alcohol Prevention and Treatment Policy for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, Division of Systems Development. Before coming to SAMHSA Rob served as the Administrator for True North-Student Assistance & Treatment Services at the Educational Service District 113’s Department of Educational Support in Olympia, Washington.  He was responsible for the development, implementation, and management of a (45) forty-five school district consortium addressing School Safety and Substance Abuse Prevention, Intervention, and Treatment programs within the five-county region.   Rob has worked in the area of substance abuse prevention, intervention, and Treatment for more than 34 years, as a nationally certified clinician, and has served as the Director for Counseling and Assistance Programs for the U.S. Navy during Desert Storm.  Rob served as the principal investigator of the Olympia Effective Adolescent Grant, and as a consultant specializing in the implementation of schools-based prevention and treatment programs for several states. He received his Master of Science in Education Degree from Southern Illinois University.   Dr. Aida Balsano serves as Director for Prevention Communications and Public Engagement at the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Dept. of Health and Human Services (HHS).  Prior to joining SAMHSA in 2020, Aida was with the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA, at the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture), where she served for ten years as the National Program Leader in Research and Evaluation in Family & Consumer Sciences. While at NIFA, she administered competitive grant programs and worked with administrators, faculty, and Cooperative Extension educators across the Land-Grant University system, as well as served as NIFA’s liaison to Federal agencies and other national partners addressing existing and emerging programmatic, research, and evaluation needs, opportunities, and resources in the areas of individual, family and community quality of life in general and rural well-being specifically. Before her post with USDA, Aida worked as a Vice President for Evaluation and Policy at the Milton S. Eisenhower Foundation in Washington, DC, and as a post-doctoral fellow at the Institute for Applied Research in Youth Development at Tufts University, MA. Aida holds an M.A. and Ph.D. in Child Development from Tufts University and a B.A. in Psychology from Grinnell College, IA.  

SHOW NOTES: Host Jodie Sweetin is joined by Amy McCarthy, Dr. Aida Balsano, Special Assistant to the Director of the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention and Robert Vincent, Associate Administrator for Alcohol Prevention and Treatment Policy at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Ultimately our goal is to help parents have “The Talk.” In this episode, we will discuss keeping the child’s dignity intact while assisting them through difficult situations.  Separating what the child’s behavior is and your love for the child can be hard when tempers are raging.   We will share tips on overcoming these situations and how to make “The Talk” beneficial to the child and not detrimental to your relationship.    IN THIS EPISODE: [00:00] Show excerpt  [02:25] Admitting as the parent that we are not perfect.  We make mistakes and may have made an error even in the position taken in the current conversation [06:36]Dos and Don’ts of having the conversation about substance abuse [11:53]LGBTQ children and the approach a parent takes [16:11] Anger and crisis mode versus compassion and empathy [18:24] Coming up on the next episode of Awkward Conversations   KEY TAKEAWAYS: Give your child a chance to participate in the “Talk.”  Don’t direct the conversation at them but give both parent and child opportunities to voice their opinion.  There are cultural differences when there are age differences. Ensure that the child understands what you are communicating.  Don’t assume you are on the same page. Don’t lecture.  The goal is to keep the conversation going.  Kids will turn off a lecture. Instead, encouraging further discussion leaves them confident they can discuss anything with the parent.       ***DISCLAIMER***The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Awkward Conversation series are solely those of the individuals, speakers, commentators, experts, and or hosts involved and do not necessarily reflect nor represent those of the production, associates or broadcaster, or any of its employees. Production is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the series available for viewing. The primary purpose of this series is to educate and inform. This series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This series is available for private, non-commercial use only. The production, broadcaster, or its channel cannot be held accountable for all or any views expressed during this program. Resources: SAMHSA Find Treatment   Emoji Decoder  DEA Takeback Website Growing Up Drug-Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention One Pill Could Kill Never Thought I’d Say This Podcast with Jodie Sweetin Team Upstandards with Trevor Donovan Get Smart About Drugs Website Elks Kid Zone Website Elks Drug Awareness Program Website Elks DAP on Twitter Elks DAP on Facebook Elks DAP on YouTube DEA Website DEA on Instagram DEA on Twitter DEA on Facebook DEA YouTube Channel     Watch Awkward Conversations Season 1 the series: Awkward Breakfast Conversations - Ep. 1 Awkward Lunch Conversations - Ep. 2 Awkward Dinner Conversations - Ep. 3      Bios:   Jodie Sweetin is an American actress and television personality known for her role as Stephanie Tanner in the ABC comedy series Full House and its Netflix sequel series Fuller House. Jodie is joined by Content Expert Amy McCarthy, a Senior Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital. Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is the Director of Social Work for the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program (ASAP) at Boston Children's Hospital, where she provides direct clinical and programmatic support. Additionally, Amy has extensive experience working in community-based settings providing care to young people with complex mental health needs and their families. As the former director of the Boston-Suffolk County Family Resource Center, she worked with an abundance of community partners to ensure residents had access to vital resources to meet basic needs and beyond. Amy received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW) from Siena College and a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Wheelock College. Rob Vincent serves as the Associate Administrator for Alcohol Prevention and Treatment Policy for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, Division of Systems Development. Before coming to SAMHSA, Rob served as the Administrator for True North-Student Assistance & Treatment Services at the Educational Service District 113’s Department of Educational Support in Olympia, Washington.  He was responsible for the development, implementation, and management of a (45) forty-five school district consortium addressing School Safety and Substance Abuse Prevention, Intervention, and Treatment programs within the five-county region.   Rob has worked in substance abuse prevention, intervention, and Treatment for more than 34 years as a nationally certified clinician. He served as the Director of Counseling and Assistance Programs for the U.S. Navy during Desert Storm.  Rob served as the principal investigator of the Olympia Effective Adolescent Grant, and as a consultant specializing in the implementation of schools-based prevention and treatment programs for several states. He received his Master of Science in Education Degree from Southern Illinois University. Dr. Aida Balsano serves as Director for Prevention Communications and Public Engagement at the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Dept. of Health and Human Services (HHS).  Prior to joining SAMHSA in 2020, Aida was with the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA, at the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture), where she served for ten years as the National Program Leader in Research and Evaluation in Family & Consumer Sciences. While at NIFA, she administered competitive grant programs and worked with administrators, faculty, and Cooperative Extension educators across the Land-Grant University system, as well as served as NIFA’s liaison to Federal agencies and other national partners addressing existing and emerging programmatic, research, and evaluation needs, opportunities, and resources in the areas of individual, family and community quality of life in general and rural well-being specifically. Before her post with USDA, Aida worked as a Vice President for Evaluation and Policy at the Milton S. Eisenhower Foundation in Washington, DC, and as a post-doctoral fellow at the Institute for Applied Research in Youth Development at Tufts University, MA. Aida holds an M.A. and Ph.D. in Child Development from Tufts University and a B.A. in Psychology from Grinnell College, IA.  

Host Jodie Sweetin is joined by Amy McCarthy, Dr. Aida Balsano, Special Assistant to the Director of the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention and Robert Vincent, Associate Administrator for Alcohol Prevention and Treatment Policy at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Ultimately our goal is to help parents have “The Talk” if it hasn’t happened yet, then let’s be prepared…if it has, how did it go?  If you screwed it up, no worries. Let’s figure out how to get it right. But, on the other hand, if you feel it went well, take this as a reminder that the talk is not a one-off, let’s figure out what’s next in this constant battle to keep those we love more than life itself safe!     In this episode, we will discuss the When and How's of talking with our kids about drugs and making smart choices.  IN THIS EPISODE: [00:00] Role play of child questioning the use of alcohol with parents [02:45] At what age should we have the “talk” regarding drugs and alcohol [04:18] Making the “talk” an opportunity rather than a conversation I “have” to have with my child [08:41] The research has shown kids want to have these conversations [11:50] Encouragement goes a long way [20:09] How to overcome the fear of having hard talks with your child   KEY TAKEAWAYS: The ideal conversation you can have with your child is non-threatening and non-confrontational. A parent's approach when discussing complex subjects with a child makes an enormous difference. It is ok to have quiet moments during talks with your kids.  Often both parties need time to reflect on what was said.  It is also ok as a parent not to have all the answers. Focus on the positive things in your child's life. Then, when it comes to young teens, ask lots of questions and be supportive as they try to find out who they are. ***DISCLAIMER***The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Awkward Conversation series are solely those of the individuals, speakers, commentators, experts, and or hosts involved and do not necessarily reflect nor represent those of the production, associates or broadcaster, or any of its employees. Production is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the series available for viewing. The primary purpose of this series is to educate and inform. This series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This series is available for private, non-commercial use only. The production, broadcaster, or its channel cannot be held accountable for all or any views expressed during this program. Resources: SAMHSA Find Treatment   Emoji Decoder  DEA Takeback Website Growing Up Drug-Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention One Pill Could Kill Never Thought I’d Say This Podcast with Jodie Sweetin Team Upstandards with Trevor Donovan Get Smart About Drugs Website Elks Kid Zone Website Elks Drug Awareness Program Website Elks DAP on Twitter Elks DAP on Facebook Elks DAP on YouTube DEA Website DEA on Instagram DEA on Twitter DEA on Facebook DEA YouTube Channel     Watch Awkward Conversations Season 1 the series: Awkward Breakfast Conversations - Ep. 1 Awkward Lunch Conversations - Ep. 2 Awkward Dinner Conversations - Ep. 3      Bios:   Jodie Sweetin is an American actress and television personality known for her role as Stephanie Tanner in the ABC comedy series Full House and its Netflix sequel series Fuller House. Jodie is joined by Content Expert Amy McCarthy, a Senior Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital.   Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is the Director of Social Work for the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program (ASAP) at Boston Children's Hospital, where she provides direct clinical and programmatic support. Additionally, Amy has extensive experience working in community-based settings providing care to young people with complex mental health needs and their families. As the former director of the Boston-Suffolk County Family Resource Center, she worked with an abundance of community partners to ensure residents had access to vital resources to meet basic needs and beyond. Amy received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW) from Siena College and earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Wheelock College. Rob Vincent serves as the Associate Administrator for Alcohol Prevention and Treatment Policy for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, Division of Systems Development. Before coming to SAMHSA Rob served as the Administrator for True North-Student Assistance & Treatment Services at the Educational Service District 113’s Department of Educational Support in Olympia, Washington.  He was responsible for the development, implementation, and management of a (45) forty-five school district consortium addressing School Safety and Substance Abuse Prevention, Intervention, and Treatment programs within the five-county region.   Rob has worked in the area of substance abuse prevention, intervention, and Treatment for more than 34 years, as a nationally certified clinician, and has served as the Director for Counseling and Assistance Programs for the U.S. Navy during Desert Storm.  Rob served as the principal investigator of the Olympia Effective Adolescent Grant, and as a consultant specializing in the implementation of schools-based prevention and treatment programs for several states. He received his Master of Science in Education Degree from Southern Illinois University.   Dr. Aida Balsano serves as Director for Prevention Communications and Public Engagement at the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Dept. of Health and Human Services (HHS).  Prior to joining SAMHSA in 2020, Aida was with the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA, at the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture), where she served for ten years as the National Program Leader in Research and Evaluation in Family & Consumer Sciences. While at NIFA, she administered competitive grant programs and worked with administrators, faculty, and Cooperative Extension educators across the Land-Grant University system, as well as served as NIFA’s liaison to Federal agencies and other national partners addressing existing and emerging programmatic, research, and evaluation needs, opportunities, and resources in the areas of individual, family and community quality of life in general and rural well-being specifically. Before her post with USDA, Aida worked as a Vice President for Evaluation and Policy at the Milton S. Eisenhower Foundation in Washington, DC, and as a post-doctoral fellow at the Institute for Applied Research in Youth Development at Tufts University, MA. Aida holds an M.A. and Ph.D. in Child Development from Tufts University and a B.A. in Psychology from Grinnell College, IA.

Host Jodie Sweetin is joined by Amy McCarthy and Special Agent William (Bill) Bodner in Charge of DEA’s Los Angeles Field Division. It’s common and often warranted for parents to be anxious and concerned for the things their children may get into online. Countless ways exist for children to run into potentially dangerous situations including retail drug trafficking, once relegated to the dark web is now available across the web and social platforms!   In this episode we will explore when and how much online time is appropriate. We will learn about how drugs and other illicit activity is coded and we will discuss ways to keep our kids safe online, monitor their activity and access and give them rules and guidelines that help them keep themselves safe.   IN THIS EPISODE: [1:05] Dark web and social media [3:36] Access to counterfeit and prescription drugs  [9:02] Appropriate age for social media accounts [10:30] Decoding your kids emojis and social media  [14:55] Non negotiable ground rules [18:14] Ways to be more present in their child's online and social media presence [19:14] What to do if you find out your child is using drugs   KEY TAKEAWAYS: In the last 3 years the ability to connect with drug dealers in brick and mortar places stopped, they migrated online, and that's really the same thing that happened to all of us in our work life Having them know that social media is part of a privilege. Instagram , Snapchat, Tik Tok, whatever social media account, it's like you're being able to look into their room like an extension of themselves.  Limiting social media time can be really important as kids can get detached from other activities that are healthy outlets for them in their lives.   ***DISCLAIMER***The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Awkward Conversation series are solely those of the individuals, speakers, commentators, experts, and or hosts involved and do not necessarily reflect nor represent those of the production, associates or broadcaster, or any of its employees. Production is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the series available for viewing. The primary purpose of this series is to educate and inform. This series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This series is available for private, non-commercial use only. The production, broadcaster, or its channel cannot be held accountable for all or any views expressed during this program.   Resources: SAMHSA Find Treatment   Emoji Decoder  DEA Takeback Website Growing Up Drug-Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention One Pill Could Kill Never Thought I’d Say This Podcast with Jodie Sweetin Team Upstandards with Trevor Donovan Get Smart About Drugs Website Elks Kid Zone Website Elks Drug Awareness Program Website Elks DAP on Twitter Elks DAP on Facebook Elks DAP on YouTube DEA Website DEA on Instagram DEA on Twitter DEA on Facebook DEA YouTube Channel   Watch Awkward Conversations Season 1 the series: Awkward Breakfast Conversations - Ep. 1 Awkward Lunch Conversations - Ep. 2 Awkward Dinner Conversations - Ep. 3    Bios: Jodie Sweetin is an American actress and television personality known for her role as Stephanie Tanner in the ABC comedy series Full House and its Netflix sequel series Fuller House. Jodie is joined by Content Expert Amy McCarthy, a Senior Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital. Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is the Director of Social Work for the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program (ASAP) at Boston Children's Hospital where she provides direct clinical and programmatic support. Additionally, Amy has extensive experience working in community-based settings providing care to young people living with complex mental health needs, and their families. As the former director of the Boston-Suffolk County Family Resource Center, she worked with an abundance of community partners to ensure residents had access to vital resources to meet basic needs and beyond. Amy received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW) from Siena College and earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Wheelock College. William “Bill” Bodner, a 30-year veteran of the Drug Enforcement Administration, assumed the role of Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration,Los Angeles Field Division in June, 2019. As the Special Agent in Charge, Mr. Bodner is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of 14 offices located in Nevada, Hawaii, Guam, Saipan, and the seven Southern California counties which make up the greater Los Angeles area. Mr. Bodner previously served as a Deputy Special Agent in Charge of the Los Angeles Field Division from June, 2017 to May, 2019 and an Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Los Angeles Field Division from April, 2009 to May, 2017.  From 2006 to 2009, Mr. Bodner served as a Staff Coordinator at the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Special Operations Division, in Chantilly, Virginia. While assigned to the Special Operations Division, Mr. Bodner coordinated several high-level, multi-jurisdiction investigative operations and worked on high-value target capture operations and classified projects. Between 1992 and 2006, Mr. Bodner worked the streets of Los Angeles as a DEA Special Agent and Group Supervisor. Mr. Bodner has leveraged his extensive career in Los Angeles to develop and improve upon partnerships with state, local and other federal agencies. Mr. Bodner’ s vision is to conduct very impactful investigations on the most significant Drug TraffickingOrganizations posing a threat to our region, keeping in mind the goal of improving the quality of life for those in our communities. Mr. Bodner sees the mission of DEA as keeping communities safe and healthy, while reducing drug-related violent crime. Mr. Bodner reminds all, drug trafficking is not a victimless crime. The best way to avoid becoming a victim is to find something in life you are passionate about, don’t let drugs distract you from that passion and don’t ever let drugs become your passion.

Host Jodie Sweetin is joined by Amy McCarthy and divorce mediator Judith Weigle, who discuss the importance of consistency in co-parenting  as well as the need for security while co-parenting.  In this episode we will discuss the importance of dealing with your own pain, establishing a consistent message, the role of stepparents and other elements that come into play in co-parenting situations. Oftentimes stress is a trigger for substance use and these are all factors that need to be managed in co-parenting situations.    IN THIS EPISODE: [3:41] Co-Parenting and positive communication  [5:36] How to be able to present kids with tools and how to begin the conversation of divorce with their kids  [7:54] Talking with a therapist helps parents have their own place to process emotions  [10:08] Consistency and communication in co-parenting [18:02] How to talk to kids about dating or the role of a stepparents   KEY TAKEAWAYS: Statistically children of divorced parents are 3 times more likely to suffer from drug and alcohol abuse than children of non divorced parents Consistency is a key component here. Humans are creatures of habit. Having routines and expectations set up are critically important for developing minds and children. It's not really an argument up for debate. There's ways to be honest with your children without having to reveal all of the information or all of the details. Divorce doesn't have to be a recipe for disaster. It can be an opportunity for all people involved to show up, to have honest conversations, and to continue to support their children.   ***DISCLAIMER***The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Awkward Conversation series are solely those of the individuals, speakers, commentators, experts, and or hosts involved and do not necessarily reflect nor represent those of the production, associates or broadcaster, or any of its employees. Production is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the series available for viewing. The primary purpose of this series is to educate and inform. This series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This series is available for private, non-commercial use only. The production, broadcaster, or its channel cannot be held accountable for all or any views expressed during this program. Resources: DEA Takeback Website Growing Up Drug-Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention One Pill Could Kill Never Thought I’d Say This Podcast with Jodie Sweetin Team Upstandards with Trevor Donovan Get Smart About Drugs Website Elks Kid Zone Website Elks Drug Awareness Program Website Elks DAP on Twitter Elks DAP on Facebook Elks DAP on YouTube DEA Website DEA on Instagram DEA on Twitter DEA on Facebook DEA YouTube Channel     Watch Awkward Conversations Season 1 the series: Awkward Breakfast Conversations - Ep. 1 Awkward Lunch Conversations - Ep. 2 Awkward Dinner Conversations - Ep. 3    Bios: Jodie Sweetin is an American actress and television personality known for her role as Stephanie Tanner in the ABC comedy series Full House and its Netflix sequel series Fuller House. Jodie is joined by Content Expert Amy McCarthy, a Senior Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital.   Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is the Director of Social Work for the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program (ASAP) at Boston Children's Hospital where she provides direct clinical and programmatic support. Additionally, Amy has extensive experience working in community-based settings providing care to young people living with complex mental health needs, and their families. As the former director of the Boston-Suffolk County Family Resource Center, she worked with an abundance of community partners to ensure residents had access to vital resources to meet basic needs and beyond. Amy received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW) from Siena College and earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Wheelock College.   JUDITH M. WEIGLE, Mediator, Podcast Host Judith M. Weigle has been a mediator for 10 years and in private practice family law for nine years.   Her company, Divorce Resource, Inc., provides both mediation and filing services for divorces, legal separations, paternity cases, and post-judgment revisions of settlement agreements as a Legal Document Assistant (a paralegal on steroids).   Judith is one of those rare individuals who can make you laugh while you’re going through a painful experience.  Her ability to see through the complexities of emotion in order to help people think through and reach a negotiated settlement is unparalleled in the field of divorce mediation. Weigle’s mediation experiences include Divorce and Family Mediation, Community and Personal Mediation with the Dispute Resolution Program at the Office of the Los Angeles City Attorney, and Mediator and Arbitrator with the Los Angeles County Bar Attorney-Client Fee Dispute Program.   She is also the author of the Internet sensation My Office Is a 3-Ring Circus! Must I Take Orders From Clowns, a business development book; a Toastmaster; and Podcast Host of THE Amicable Divorce Expert now in its third year. Judith’s Philosophy:  Be Honest and Authentic, Speak From the Heart, and Take Responsibility for Your Actions Divorce Resource, Inc. www.DivorceResourceInc.com Judy@DivorceResourceInc.com   THE Amicable Divorce Expert podcast www.TheAmicableDivorceExpert.com Judith@TheAmicableDivorceExpert.com   About Elks As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith-based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all-volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people!    About DEA The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA is tasked with enforcing the controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the largest and most effective anti-drug organization in the world, with 239 domestic locations and 91 foreign offices in 68 countries.

In part two of “Helping Kids De-stress”, emphasis is placed on parents de-stressing as well as their children. Jodie Sweetin, Amy McCarthy, Dr. Lewis, Erin Wick, and Daniel Logan continue to discuss strategies for helping kids regulate their emotions. Tune in as they talk about modeling behaviors such as admitting when you are wrong, de-stressing together, and creating environments to have fun together without substances. Dr. Krystal Lewis walks us through a guided visualization meditation activity and you will feel much calmer after listening.   IN THIS EPISODE: [01:40] Parents need to admit when they are wrong [03:42] The need for parents to learn coping skills in order to teach those skills to their kids [06:05] Creating environments to have fun without substances [09:50] Mindfulness explained and a guided visualization [13:36] How the body is calmer after meditation   KEY TAKEAWAYS: When parents react poorly, it's important to admit they are wrong and model the correct behavior.  At a time when media is so prevalent in the life of our youth, parents can model fun and create an environment for kids to have fun without drugs. Participating in the fun furthermore shows them they can experience pleasure without alcohol or drugs. Guided visualization and meditation can be calming and grounding for both kids and parents. It can be beneficial to do it together or apart. ***DISCLAIMER***The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Awkward Conversation series are solely those of the individuals, speakers, commentators, experts, and or hosts involved and do not necessarily reflect nor represent those of the production, associates or broadcaster, or any of its employees. Production is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the series available for viewing. The primary purpose of this series is to educate and inform. This series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This series is available for private, non-commercial use only. The production, broadcaster, or its channel cannot be held accountable for all or any views expressed during this program. Resources: DEA Takeback Website Growing Up Drug-Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention One Pill Could Kill Never Thought I’d Say This Podcast with Jodie Sweetin Team Upstandards with Trevor Donovan Get Smart About Drugs Website Elks Kid Zone Website Elks Drug Awareness Program Website Elks DAP on Twitter Elks DAP on Facebook Elks DAP on YouTube DEA Website DEA on Instagram DEA on Twitter DEA on Facebook DEA YouTube Channel Trevor Donovan Instagram Team Upstanders Instagram Trevor Donovan Twitter   Watch Awkward Conversations Season 1 the series: Awkward Breakfast Conversations - Ep. 1 Awkward Lunch Conversations - Ep. 2 Awkward Dinner Conversations - Ep. 3  Bios:   Jodie Sweetin is an American actress and television personality known for her role as Stephanie Tanner in the ABC comedy series Full House and its Netflix sequel series Fuller House. Jodie is joined by Content Expert Amy McCarthy, a Senior Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital. Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is the Director of Social Work for the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program (ASAP) at Boston Children's Hospital where she provides direct clinical and programmatic support. Additionally, Amy has extensive experience working in community-based settings providing care to young people living with complex mental health needs, and their families. As the former director of the Boston-Suffolk County Family Resource Center, she worked with an abundance of community partners to ensure residents had access to vital resources to meet basic needs and beyond. Amy received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW) from Siena College and earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Wheelock College.   Erin L. Wick is the Senior Director of Behavioral Health and Integrated Student Support at Capital Region ESD 113 in Tumwater, Washington supporting 44 school districts and one tribal compact school that serve about 73,000 students and their families. Erin also serves in the role of State Lead for COVID response for Behavioral Health for the Association of Educational Service Districts in Washington State. Erin has dedicated her career to increasing systems of care for the health and wellness of the region. She and her team partner with school leaders, governmental and public agencies, and communities across the region and Washington state. In 2022, Erin’s team was recognized by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy’s National Drug Control Strategy for their innovation and positive student outcomes using the Student Assistance Program model.   Dr. Krystal M. Lewis is a licensed Clinical Psychologist with the Section on Development and Affective Neuroscience at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Dr. Lewis received her Ph.D. from Virginia Tech. She completed her pre-doctoral internship and postdoctoral fellowship at the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago and a two-year services fellowship at the Urban Youth Trauma Center at the University of Illinois Chicago. Her clinical interests include pediatric anxiety, stress, and mood disorders and she provides therapy to patients at NIH as well as at her small private practice. Dr. Lewis specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and her research interests are focused on identifying the mechanisms of change in psychological treatment for pediatric anxiety, specifically CBT. She has a particular interest in minority mental health and is working towards increasing representation within research trials. Over the past couple of years, Dr. Lewis has made numerous appearances on social media, podcasts, news outlets, and webinars for organizations such as SiriusXM Doctor Radio, Therapy for Black Girls, NBC 4 Washington, and NPR Morning Edition and has also made significant contributions to articles in The Washington Post, New York Times, USA Today, and Parents Magazine. Dr. Lewis is a board member of the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), an organization invested in bridging research and clinical insights to improve the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of individuals with anxiety and mental health disorders.   Daniel Logan, born in New Zealand, started acting when he was 10 years old. He got his break when Auckland children's rugby teams were being scouted to find a boy for a TV commercial. After auditioning with hundreds of other young rugby players, Daniel got the part, his first acting role, playing a little boy who gets knocked into the mud by Auckland rugby star Michael Jones. He was noticed by other casting agents and that break led to more commercials and TV appearances, including a recurring role in episodes of the New Zealand medical series "Shortland Street" and a guest appearance in the international hit "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys." Daniel also starred in the short film, "Falling Sparrows" and provided the lead & supporting voices in 2 animated series' "Tamota" and "Takapu." He also had a part in "The Legend of Johnny Lingo." At the top of this young actor's growing resume sits "Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones," with the coveted role of Boba Fett. Playing Boba Fett required more than a love of action, it also required patience. Daniel recalls being next to blue and green screen backdrops through seemingly endless special effects takes. At one point, a series of 82 different shots of Daniel was done for a special effects sequence of clones that would only last a few seconds on-screen. He knows all the work was worth it and is very proud and honored to be a part of the Star Wars legacy.   About Elks As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith-based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all-volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people!    About DEA The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA is tasked with enforcing the controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the largest and most effective anti-drug organization in the world, with 239 domestic locations and 91 foreign offices in 68 countries.

Stress can be crippling and learning to identify emotions can be hard. On today’s episode, Jodie Sweetin and Amy McCarthy talk about the unprecedented amount of stress kids are under with  Erin Wick, Senior Behavioral Health & Student Support Director, and Dr. Krystal Lewis a psychologist at the National Institute of Mental Health. The group discusses how to differentiate between stress and anxiety, how to recognize when your child is undergoing stress, and what to do if you do notice those signs. Daniel Logan (Boba Fett) also joins to share how he helps his young child cope with stress. Tune in to receive additional resources to help your child de-stress and better regulate.   IN THIS EPISODE: [01:13] How to differentiate between stress and anxiety [03:48] Ways to de-stress and regulate [05:29] Daniel addresses helping his son deal with stressors [09:57] How to recognize stress in your child's life [13:36] Ways to help kids if you do notice signs of stress in your child [17:23] Additional resources for parents to get connected to help   KEY TAKEAWAYS: Meditation can be a good way to de-stress and regulate for kids and adults. It can be done alone or as a family. When you can accomplish a different task, it can reset your brain and help with that stress and anxiety. Learning this skill starts at a very young age. What may not seem to be that big of a deal to you, can be huge to a child. You need to validate their emotions and then you can problem-solve together. ***DISCLAIMER***The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Awkward Conversation series are solely those of the individuals, speakers, commentators, experts, and or hosts involved and do not necessarily reflect nor represent those of the production, associates or broadcaster, or any of its employees. Production is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the series available for viewing. The primary purpose of this series is to educate and inform. This series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This series is available for private, non-commercial use only. The production, broadcaster, or its channel cannot be held accountable for all or any views expressed during this program. Resources: DEA Takeback Website Growing Up Drug-Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention One Pill Could Kill Never Thought I’d Say This Podcast with Jodie Sweetin Team Upstandards with Trevor Donovan Get Smart About Drugs Website Elks Kid Zone Website Elks Drug Awareness Program Website Elks DAP on Twitter Elks DAP on Facebook Elks DAP on YouTube DEA Website DEA on Instagram DEA on Twitter DEA on Facebook DEA YouTube Channel Trevor Donovan Instagram Team Upstanders Instagram Trevor Donovan Twitter   Watch Awkward Conversations Season 1 the series: Awkward Breakfast Conversations - Ep. 1 Awkward Lunch Conversations - Ep. 2 Awkward Dinner Conversations - Ep. 3  Bios:   Jodie Sweetin is an American actress and television personality known for her role as Stephanie Tanner in the ABC comedy series Full House and its Netflix sequel series Fuller House. Jodie is joined by Content Expert Amy McCarthy, a Senior Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital.   Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is the Director of Social Work for the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program (ASAP) at Boston Children's Hospital where she provides direct clinical and programmatic support. Additionally, Amy has extensive experience working in community-based settings providing care to young people living with complex mental health needs, and their families. As the former director of the Boston-Suffolk County Family Resource Center, she worked with an abundance of community partners to ensure residents had access to vital resources to meet basic needs and beyond. Amy received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW) from Siena College and earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Wheelock College.   Erin L. Wick is the Senior Director of Behavioral Health and Integrated Student Supports at Capital Region ESD 113 in Tumwater, Washington supporting 44 school districts and one tribal compact school who serve about 73,000 students and their families. Erin also serves in the role of State Lead for COVID response for Behavioral Health for the Association of Educational Service Districts in Washington State. Erin has dedicated her career to increasing systems of care for the health and wellness of the region. She and her team partner with school leaders, governmental and public agencies, and communities across the region and Washington state. In 2022, Erin’s team was recognized by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy’s National Drug Control Strategy for their innovation and positive student outcomes using the Student Assistance Program model.   Dr. Krystal M. Lewis is a licensed Clinical Psychologist with the Section on Development and Affective Neuroscience at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Dr. Lewis received her Ph.D. from Virginia Tech. She completed her pre-doctoral internship and postdoctoral fellowship at the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago and a two-year services fellowship at the Urban Youth Trauma Center at the University of Illinois Chicago. Her clinical interests include pediatric anxiety, stress, and mood disorders and she provides therapy to patients at NIH as well as at her small private practice. Dr. Lewis specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and her research interests are focused on identifying the mechanisms of change in psychological treatment for pediatric anxiety, specifically CBT. She has a particular interest in minority mental health and is working towards increasing representation within research trials. Over the past couple of years, Dr. Lewis has made numerous appearances on social media, podcasts, news outlets, and webinars for organizations such as SirusXM Doctor Radio, Therapy for Black Girls, NBC 4 Washington, and NPR Morning Edition and has also made significant contributions to articles in The Washington Post, New York Times, USA Today, and Parents Magazine. Dr. Lewis is a board member with the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), an organization invested in bridging research and clinical insights to improve diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of individuals with anxiety and mental health disorders.   Daniel Logan, born in New Zealand, started acting when he was 10 years old. He got his break when Auckland children's rugby teams were being scouted to find a boy for a TV commercial. After auditioning with hundreds of other young rugby players, Daniel got the part, his first acting role, playing a little boy who gets knocked into the mud by Auckland rugby star Michael Jones. He was noticed by other casting agents and that break led to more commercials and TV appearances, including a recurring role in episodes of the New Zealand medical series "Shortland Street" and a guest appearance in the international hit "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys." Daniel also starred in the short film, "Falling Sparrows" and provided the lead & supporting voices in 2 animated series' "Tamota" and "Takapu." He also had a part in "The Legend of Johnny Lingo." At the top of this young actor's growing resume sits "Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones," with the coveted role of Boba Fett. Playing Boba Fett required more than a love of action, it also required patience. Daniel recalls being next to blue and green screen backdrops through seemingly endless special effects takes. At one point, a series of 82 different shots of Daniel was done for a special effects sequence of clones that would only last a few seconds on-screen. He knows all the work was worth it and is very proud and honored to be a part of the Star Wars legacy.   About Elks As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith-based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all-volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people!    About DEA The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA is tasked with enforcing the controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the largest and most effective anti-drug organization in the world, with 239 domestic locations and 91 foreign offices in 68 countries.

In this season one recap, we take a look back at some of the post-show interviews. Jodie Sweetin and Amy McCarthy revisit common themes from the season. They are joined by special guest parents, Andy Buckley and Sean Astin, who appear on the Awkward Conversation web series post show. The group shares conversations they experienced in their own families and explore how social media has changed awkward conversations for this generation. Tune in for advice to transform every awkward conversation you have with your kids.   IN THIS EPISODE: [00:37] Show excerpt  [03:03] Recap on medications and drugs [08:19] Andy shares what his conversations with his own kids look like [12:39] Sean talks about the groundwork that his life laid for awkward conversation [15:16] How social media has changed awkward conversations [18:35] Amy and Sean discuss relationship tools    KEY TAKEAWAYS: It’s okay to ask for help. “It takes a village” is true and parental support is helpful Your reactions to when kids are talking about a friend's experience could be your child feeling you out on how you would react if they are going through the same experience. You need to focus on relationships. They are the foundation for awkward conversations. ***DISCLAIMER***The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Awkward Conversation series are solely those of the individuals, speakers, commentators, experts, and or hosts involved and do not necessarily reflect nor represent those of the production, associates or broadcaster, or any of its employees. Production is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the series available for viewing. The primary purpose of this series is to educate and inform. This series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This series is available for private, non-commercial use only. The production, broadcaster, or its channel cannot be held accountable for all or any views expressed during this program. Resources: DEA Takeback Website Growing Up Drug-Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention One Pill Could Kill Never Thought I’d Say This Podcast with Jodie Sweetin Team Upstandards with Trevor Donovan Get Smart About Drugs Website Elks Kid Zone Website Elks Drug Awareness Program Website Elks DAP on Twitter Elks DAP on Facebook Elks DAP on YouTube DEA Website DEA on Instagram DEA on Twitter DEA on Facebook DEA YouTube Channel Trevor Donovan Instagram Team Upstanders Instagram Trevor Donovan Twitter   Watch Awkward Conversations Season 1 the series: Awkward Breakfast Conversations - Ep. 1 Awkward Lunch Conversations - Ep. 2 Awkward Dinner Conversations - Ep. 3  Bios/Cast: This web series stars American screen and stage actor David Dastmalchian, playing the role of the father. David is most recently known for his roles in Dune, The Suicide Squad, and Ant-Man. The mother, played by actress Dinora Walcott, is known for her role in shows like NCIS, Scandal, and The Big Bang Theory. In this episode, we welcome John Amos, playing the role of Grandpa. John is an American actor widely known for his role in Good Times, Die Hard 2, and Roots. This episode features Seychelles Mizel, playing the role of the daughter, and Phoenix Nicholson, as the young son.   Jodie Sweetin is an American actress and television personality known for her role as Stephanie Tanner in the ABC comedy series Full House and its Netflix sequel series Fuller House. Jodie is joined by Content Expert Amy McCarthy, a Senior Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital.   Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is the Director of Social Work for the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program (ASAP) at Boston Children's Hospital where she provides direct clinical and programmatic support. Additionally, Amy has extensive experience working in community-based settings providing care to young people living with complex mental health needs, and their families. As the former director of the Boston-Suffolk County Family Resource Center, she worked with an abundance of community partners to ensure residents had access to vital resources to meet basic needs and beyond. Amy received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW) from Siena College and earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Wheelock College.   Andy Buckley was born in Salem, Massachusetts. Played on the Stanford golf team during his freshman year. A journeyman actor in the 90s and stopped acting as a career in 2000. Partner in an Investment Advisory Group at a brokerage house in Los Angeles. Auditioning for The Office (2005) was a fluke. Hats off to Allison Jones, the show's casting director, for coming up with the idea. Buckley's grateful and having fun with it. Along with Melissa McCarthy, Ben Falcone and Dax Shepard, were part of a short-lived sketch comedy group 'House of Floyd,' which grew out of their work at The Groundlings. Was Reba McEntire's fella in two of her music videos: 'Rather Ride Around With You and 'What If It's You.' Played in the U.S. Amateur many years ago. Married to Nancy Banks, an acting teacher/coach. They have two sons.   Sean Patrick Astin (né Duke; February 25, 1971) is an American actor, voice actor, screenwriter, director, producer, family man, author, marathon runner, political activist, and philanthropist who is well known for his film debut portraying Mikey in Steven Spielberg's The Goonies (1985), for playing the title role in the critically acclaimed Rudy (1993), and for his role as the beloved Sam Gamgee in the Academy Award-winning trilogy, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001), The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers(2002), and The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003). Astin was born Sean Patrick Duke on February 25, 1971, in Santa Monica, California. His mother was actress Patty Duke. At the time of his birth, his biological father was believed to be entertainer Desi Arnaz Jr., but Astin discovered through a DNA test in the 1990s that his biological father is music promoter Michael Tell, who was married to Patty Duke in 1970. Sean was raised by his stepfather, actor John Astin, who married Patty Duke in 1972 and whose surname Sean took. Sean's mother was of Irish and more distant German ancestry, and Sean's biological father is of Austrian Jewish and Polish Jewish descent. At age nine, Sean starred with his mother in the after-school special Please Don't Hit Me, Mom (1981). Followed by Sean's feature debut The Goonies (1985) and since then, he has had a steady stream of roles. Starring in Toy Soldiers (1991), Where the Day Takes You (1992), Rudy (1993), and Harrison Bergeron (1995). He directed and co-produced the short film Kangaroo Court (1994), which was nominated in the best short film category at The 67th Annual Academy Awards (1995). Sean's adoptive father John Astin was nominated for the same award in 1969. Sean experienced another career breakthrough with his role as the epitome of loyal sidekicks, Samwise Gamgee, in Peter Jackson's "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, released in 2001, 2002, and 2003. Along with the many awards bestowed upon the trilogy (particularly its final installment The Return of the King), Sean received nominations for his own performance. He took home the Saturn Award for Best Supporting Actor, and awards from the Las Vegas Film Critics Society, the Seattle Film Critics, the Utah Film Critics Association, and the Phoenix Film Critics Society. As an ensemble, the Return of the King cast received awards from the National Board of Review of Motion Pictures and the Screen Actors Guild. In 2004, Sean authored the NY Times bestseller "There and Back Again: An Actor's Tale," chronicling his acting career with an emphasis on his experiences filming the Lord of the Rings trilogy.   Seychelles Mizel is a recent Cal State Northridge graduate and an aspiring actress represented by Tangerine Talent Agency. She studied both Theatre and Cinema Studies. She moved to LA from Northern California in 2018 and has been using her creativity to discover her passions in the industry ever since.   About Elks As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith-based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all-volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people!    About DEA The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA is tasked with enforcing the controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the largest and most effective anti-drug organization in the world, with 239 domestic locations and 91 foreign offices in 68 countries.

More children are taken to the ER from accidental ingestion of medication than car accidents. Guest Host, Clare Kramer, is joined by Carlos Briano, Elizabeth Farrar, and WWE Star “JTG” to talk about keeping your home RX safe for kids. Locking up medications and keeping them out of sight is essential. You have to have conversations with your kids about safe medication use and who to trust giving you medicines, and you need to have this conversation often. Remind them to be safe. Tune in for additional steps parents/caregivers can take and information on the DEA Drug Takeback program.   IN THIS EPISODE: [00:56] Why accidental ingestion is common [03:59] How to have a conversation with kids about medications [07:18] Why fentanyl is being put in drugs and the rise in the drug occurrences [10:52] Alternatives to storing medications safely [12:32] Information on drug takeback program [17:24] Additional steps parents or caregivers can take   KEY TAKEAWAYS: If you are taking prescription medications, be sure to securely lock them up and keep them out of sight. You need to have conversations with your kids about medications. Have them more than once and make sure they understand. Only take drugs from a trusted adult. If you have unused, expired, or unneeded medications, turn them in at a take-back day hosted by the DEA ***DISCLAIMER***The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Awkward Conversation series are solely those of the individuals, speakers, commentators, experts, and or hosts involved and do not necessarily reflect nor represent those of the production, associates or broadcaster, or any of its employees. Production is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the series available for viewing. The primary purpose of this series is to educate and inform. This series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This series is available for private, non-commercial use only. The production, broadcaster, or its channel cannot be held accountable for all or any views expressed during this program. Resources: https://elkskidszone.org/what-heroes-do/  https://www.dea.gov/takebackday#collection-locator  Poison Control (800) 222-1222   DEA Takeback Website Growing Up Drug-Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention One Pill Could Kill Never Thought I’d Say This Podcast with Jodie Sweetin Team Upstandards with Trevor Donovan Get Smart About Drugs Website Elks Kid Zone Website Elks Drug Awareness Program Website Elks DAP on Twitter Elks DAP on Facebook Elks DAP on YouTube DEA Website DEA on Instagram DEA on Twitter DEA on Facebook DEA YouTube Channel Trevor Donovan Instagram Team Upstanders Instagram Trevor Donovan Twitter   Watch Awkward Conversations Season 1 the series: Awkward Breakfast Conversations - Ep. 1 Awkward Lunch Conversations - Ep. 2 Awkward Dinner Conversations - Ep. 3  Bios: Clare Kramer A graduate of NYU’s prestigious Tisch School of the Arts, Clare earned her BFA in just three years. While in New York, Clare appeared in numerous stage plays including one turn as Helen Keller in the stage version of "The Miracle Worker", the lead role in "Light Up the Sky" at the acclaimed Lee Strasberg Theater Institute, "Beyond Therapy" at the John Houseman Theater, and "Beginnings" at Circle in the Square. She began appearing in small and bit parts in films like In & Out and Vig. Clare first rose to attention as the hard-nosed cheerleader "Courtney" in the blockbuster hit Bring It On appearing alongside Kirsten Dunst and Eliza Dushku. Immediately following, Clare was cast in a recurring role as "Glory", the vain hell-goddess on the television hit Buffy the Vampire Slayer which gained Clare additional acclaim as one of Buffy's most popular adversaries.Clare has worked in both major studio and independent films, the most notable being Roger Avary's feature adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis' The Rules of Attraction, as well as "Lucy In the Sky" in the film D.E.B.S.. She was also cast in lead roles in The Skulls III.   She also appeared on television in a few guest appearances on Sabrina the Teenage Witch, The Random Years, and Tru Calling. She continues to work for both stage and movie roles, most recently with the horror flick The Gravedancers. Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is the Director of Social Work for the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program (ASAP) at Boston Children's Hospital where she provides direct clinical and programmatic support. Additionally, Amy has extensive experience working in community-based settings providing care to young people living with complex mental health needs, and their families. As the former director of the Boston-Suffolk County Family Resource Center, she worked with an abundance of community partners to ensure residents had access to vital resources to meet basic needs and beyond. Amy received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW) from Siena College and earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Wheelock College.   Carlos Briano is the Public Information Officer, Demand Reduction Coordinator, and Community Outreach Coordinator for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s El Paso Division, which covers West Texas and New Mexico. Prior to joining DEA, he was PIO for El Paso Water, Adams County Fire Rescue in Denver, and the El Paso Fire Department. In 2013, he was named a finalist for Texas Teacher of the Year. When he worked as a journalist for the El Paso Times, he was a member of the Texas Media Honor Roll.   Elizabeth Trimmer Farrar, BA, ACPS Elizabeth Timmer Farrar is the Coordinator of Prevention Services for the Rhode Island Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals (BHDDH). She has worked for the Department for nearly twenty years. In this capacity she is responsible for the oversight and management of the prevention activities for BHDDH, including the prevention portion of the Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant (SAPT BG) and provides oversight on the distribution of other funding allocations which also address prevention of substance misuse. She supervises the prevention provider network which includes seven regional prevention coalitions, a student assistance program, training and technical assistance center, evaluation and administration of a risk and prevalence survey for middle and high school Students. Elizabeth has thirty- years of experience in behavioral health. She was the original Director of Rhode Island Communities for Addiction Recovery Efforts (RICAREs), a grass-roots recovery effort focused on creating a socially just community for all Rhode Islanders impacted by alcohol and substance use disorders. Prior to that she worked many years as a clinician primarily working with adolescents and families. Elizabeth has served as the Rhode Island representative for the National Association of State Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Directors (NASADAD), National Prevention Network (NPN) for twelve years and is a member of various state committees. Ms. Farrar holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree as well as an Advanced Degree.   JTG. As a child growing up in Brooklyn, Jayson was a dreamer. His dreams weren't unlike many of the other young boys his age, in his neighborhood- To one day wrestle professionally with the then World Wrestling Federation, to see himself on television, and to hear his name chanted by adoring fans at his beloved Madison Square Garden. At 14 years old, Jayson and a group of his friends went to the garden to see a WWE live event. After the show was over The Rock came out onto the wrestling ring and proceeded to talk to the audience. Although the show had already ended, the crowd was so captivated by him and what he was saying that no one moved! Although he fell in love with wrestling long before that day, Jayson left the garden that night with a newfound objective-he wanted that level of connection with people, with the fans; the love and respect that he saw mutually between the Rock and the fans that night". While such an experience would be enough to ignite a small desire to one day be like "The Rock", for most that is just what it would remain. A desire, a dream unfulfilled. The odds seem virtually impossible for most that they would ever make it into the WWE, nevertheless, reach the legendary heights of Dwayne The Rock Johnson. And for an African -American teenager being raised by a single mother in Flatbush, Brooklyn, the odds can seem even more insurmountable. First of all, how does one even begin to find their way onto the WWE roster? The road is not as clearly mapped out as it is for those that hope to make it to the NBA or NFL. While most of his counterparts were worrying about the SATs and college applications, Jayson began planning. Having performed in various plays and productions at John Dewey Performing Arts High School, Jayson's goal became even more apparent to him. While he valued education and thought about going to college since he was a child he knew that he wanted to be an entertainer. His experiences on stage, in acting class, and watching the WWE on television confirmed in him what he wanted to do with his life. Jayson couldn't see how the college could help him achieve his particular goals." So at 17, after graduation, Jayson set out on his path of making his dreams his reality. With laser-like focus and unyielding determination, Jayson left New York to pursue his dream at various wrestling schools across the country. It was in Louisville, Kentucky that his dreams began to take shape. At Ohio Valley Wrestling School, after four and a half years of struggle and hardship, Jayson signed his wrestling contract as a part of the tag team Cryme Tyme. At the tender age of 21 Jayson A. Paul became JTG, the youngest African- American to ever be signed to the WWE. Jayson has realized so many of his dreams time and time again. He wrestled for the WWE, he has definitely seen himself on television and he has heard his name chanted from Madison Square Garden to Paris, France. For many people that would be enough, but not for Jayson. Like Dwayne The Rock Johnson, Hulk Hogan, and many other wrestling legends, Jayson has now set his sights on making his mark on Hollywood. While he is not abandoning wrestling, as he still has more to accomplish as a wrestler, Jayson is also passionate about acting. With Jayson's work with the WWE as a sports entertainer, the transition for him is natural.   About Elks As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith-based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all-volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people!    About DEA The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA is tasked with enforcing the controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the largest and most effective anti-drug organization in the world, with 239 domestic locations and 91 foreign offices in 68 countries.

Whether positive or negative, peer pressure is going to happen, in fact a majority of teens with substance abuse problems began using as a result of peer pressure Today, Jodie is joined by Amy McCarthy and Erin Wick who is a Senior Director of Behavioral Health. They discuss the importance of having conversations with your children about peer pressure and how critical it is for them to have safe adults. If they also have a friend who is an ally, it can make standing up to peer pressure much easier.  Listen in to hear advice on how to tailor this awkward conversation to your child based on their strengths and personality. IN THIS EPISODE: [00:58] How peer pressure affects teens, what to look for, and how to help teens make the best choices [02:39] It’s important to be a safe place for teens, but equally important they have other safe adults to talk with and look up to [07:30] A peer to stand up to peer pressure with your teen is very influential [10:58] How to deal with your child having friends who have a negative influence [13:19] Different personality types need different conversations for peer pressure [19:00] Adults experience peer pressure as well and model behaviors for their families   KEY TAKEAWAYS: Peer pressure happens to adults as well. We can model for our children how to respond and narrate our feelings about it. Relationships are important. The more safe adults a child has to talk to about peer pressure impacts their resilience. Responses to peer pressure should be individualized. Children have different strengths and personality types and need different approaches to conversations.   ***DISCLAIMER***The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Awkward Conversation series are solely those of the individuals, speakers, commentators, experts, and or hosts involved and do not necessarily reflect nor represent those of the production, associates or broadcaster, or any of its employees. Production is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the series available for viewing. The primary purpose of this series is to educate and inform. This series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This series is available for private, non-commercial use only. The production, broadcaster, or its channel cannot be held accountable for all or any views expressed during this program. Resources: Growing Up Drug-Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention One Pill Could Kill Never Thought I’d Say This Podcast with Jodie Sweetin Get Smart About Drugs Website Elks Kid Zone Website Elks Drug Awareness Program Website Elks DAP on Twitter Elks DAP on Facebook Elks DAP on YouTube DEA Website DEA on Instagram DEA on Twitter DEA on Facebook DEA YouTube Channel Watch Awkward Conversations Season 1 the series: Awkward Breakfast Conversations - Ep. 1 Awkward Lunch Conversations - Ep. 2 Awkward Dinner Conversations - Ep. 3    Bios: Jodie Sweetin is an American actress and television personality known for her role as Stephanie Tanner in the ABC comedy series Full House and its Netflix sequel series Fuller House. Jodie is joined by Content Expert Amy McCarthy, a Senior Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital.   Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is the Director of Social Work for the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program (ASAP) at Boston Children's Hospital where she provides direct clinical and programmatic support. Additionally, Amy has extensive experience working in community based settings providing care to young people living with complex mental health needs, and their families. As the former director of the Boston-Suffolk County Family Resource Center, she worked with an abundance of community partners to ensure residents had access to vital resources to meet basic needs and beyond. Amy received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW) from Siena College and earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Wheelock College. Erin L. Wick is the Senior Director of Behavioral Health and Integrated Student Supports at Capital Region ESD 113 in Tumwater, Washington supporting 44 school districts and one tribal compact school that serve about 73,000 students and their families. Erin also serves in the role of State Lead for COVID response for Behavioral Health for the Association of Educational Service Districts in Washington State. Erin has dedicated her career to increasing systems of care for the health and wellness of the region. She and her team partner with school leaders, governmental and public agencies, and communities across the region and Washington state. In 2022, Erin’s team was recognized by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy’s National Drug Control Strategy for their innovation and positive student outcomes using the Student Assistance Program model.   About Elks As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith-based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all-volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people!    About DEA The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA is tasked with enforcing the controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the largest and most effective anti-drug organization in the world, with 239 domestic locations and 91 foreign offices in 68 countries.

In 1985 DEA Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena was kidnapped and murdered by a Mexican drug cartel.  In a grassroots tribute the kids in his hometown Calexico CA. started the Red Ribbon Program, which has grown to be the nation’s oldest and largest drug use prevention/awareness program and is now celebrated by millions of kids and their families the last week of October every year!   In this episode, Jodie is joined by Sean Fearns from the DEA. They explain the importance of conversations with kids about drugs, community influence, and ideas for student buy-in. Tune in as Sean shares resources to be part of the solution. IN THIS EPISODE: [04:44] How can parents and educators get involved [10:22] Red Ribbon Week is a good conversation starter for parents to talk with their kids about drugs [12:43] Where to find the Red Ribbon Tool Kit [14:41] How Red Ribbon is incorporated into DEA and other partners [17:59] How civil organizations and individuals can reach out to DEA to get involved   KEY TAKEAWAYS: Parents, Educators, and other community organizations/ individuals all play an important part in drug prevention. Red Ribbon is beneficial for all communities because it is broad with drugs and then conversations can be tailored to local concerns. There are multiple resources available for parents, educators, and other individuals/ organizations who wish to help. ***DISCLAIMER***The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Awkward Conversation series are solely those of the individuals, speakers, commentators, experts, and or hosts involved and do not necessarily reflect nor represent those of the production, associates or broadcaster, or any of its employees. Production is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the series available for viewing. The primary purpose of this series is to educate and inform. This series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This series is available for private, non-commercial use only. The production, broadcaster, or its channel cannot be held accountable for all or any views expressed during this program. Resources: Red Ribbon Week Toolkit Just Think Twice Operation Prevention Email: Community.Outreach@DEA.gov Growing Up Drug-Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention One Pill Could Kill Never Thought I’d Say This Podcast with Jodie Sweetin Get Smart About Drugs Website Elks Kid Zone Website Elks Drug Awareness Program Website Elks DAP on Twitter Elks DAP on Facebook Elks DAP on YouTube DEA Website DEA on Instagram DEA on Twitter DEA on Facebook DEA YouTube Channel   Watch Awkward Conversations Season 1 the series: Awkward Breakfast Conversations - Ep. 1 Awkward Lunch Conversations - Ep. 2 Awkward Dinner Conversations - Ep. 3    Bios: Jodie Sweetin Jodie Sweetin is an American actress and television personality known for her role as Stephanie Tanner in the ABC comedy series Full House and its Netflix sequel series Fuller House. Jodie is joined by Content Expert Amy McCarthy, a Senior Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital.   Sean T. Fearns Chief, Community Outreach Section Office of Congressional & Public Affairs Drug Enforcement Administration   Sean Fearns serves as the Chief of Community Outreach and Prevention Support for DEA since 2015, a position that includes management of the DEA Museum as well as the DEA Community Outreach and Prevention Support section. In this capacity Sean is responsible for guiding a diverse and creative staff to develop and implement strategic national partnerships with other organizations which help educate the public on the current drug threats facing the country, support the DEA field divisions, implement DEA’s Operation Engage, communicate key Administration drug prevention messages, and help reduce the demand for those drugs. About Elks As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith-based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all-volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people!      About DEA The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA is tasked with enforcing the controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the largest and most effective anti-drug organization in the world, with 239 domestic locations and 91 foreign offices in 68 countries.

Bullying can affect everyone—those who are bullied, those who bully, and even those who witness bullying. Bullying is linked to many negative outcomes including impacts on mental health, substance use, and suicide.      Only 20% of bullying is reported so it is important for youth to have an action plan and programs that address/prevent bullying. Amy McCarthy joins special guest host Clare Kramer as she speaks with Erin Wick who is a Senior Director of Behavioral Health and Student support at a health treatment center and schools. They discuss signs of bullying, what to do if your child is bullying, and cyber-bullying.  Then, Jodie Sweetin talks with Trevor Donovan who started a nationwide anti-bullying program called Team Upstanders. He explains how the program uses positive peer pressure and mediation, the effects of online bullying, and Trevor shares an inspiring story of success. Tune in to learn tips on creating an action plan for bullying together as a family.   IN THIS EPISODE: [01:30] Signs that a child is being bullied  [05:41] Creating an action plan for bullying [07:45] What to do if your child is the one bullying [11:59] A dive into cyber-bullying [15:02] Team Upstanders program information [20:36] Trevor shares an inspiring story   KEY TAKEAWAYS: It is important to create an action plan for bullying with your child. If bullying occurs, they will already know who to tell and how to get help. Be a good example in how you are speaking to and about others. You model behaviors and expectations for your child. With programs like Team Upstanders, teens use positive peer pressure and teen mediation to help stop bullying. The goal is for it to become more popular to be nice. ***DISCLAIMER***The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Awkward Conversation series are solely those of the individuals, speakers, commentators, experts, and or hosts involved and do not necessarily reflect nor represent those of the production, associates or broadcaster, or any of its employees. Production is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the series available for viewing. The primary purpose of this series is to educate and inform. This series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This series is available for private, non-commercial use only. The production, broadcaster, or its channel cannot be held accountable for all or any views expressed during this program.   Resources: Growing Up Drug-Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention One Pill Could Kill Never Thought I’d Say This Podcast with Jodie Sweetin Team Upstandards  with Trevor Donovan Get Smart About Drugs Website Trevor Donovan Instagram Team Upstanders Instagram Trevor Donovan Twitter Trevor Donovan TikTok Elks Kid Zone Website Elks Drug Awareness Program Website Elks DAP on Twitter Elks DAP on Facebook Elks DAP on YouTube DEA Website DEA on Instagram DEA on Twitter DEA on Facebook DEA YouTube Channel   Watch Awkward Conversations Season 1 the series: Awkward Breakfast Conversations - Ep. 1 Awkward Lunch Conversations - Ep. 2 Awkward Dinner Conversations - Ep. 3    Bios: Jodie Sweetin Jodie Sweetin is an American actress and television personality known for her role as Stephanie Tanner in the ABC comedy series Full House and its Netflix sequel series Fuller House. Jodie is joined by Content Expert Amy McCarthy, a Senior Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital. Clare Kramer Clare Kramer A graduate of NYU’s prestigious Tisch School of the Arts, Clare earned her BFA in just three years. While in New York, Clare appeared in numerous stage plays including one turn as Helen Keller in the stage version of "The Miracle Worker", the lead role in "Light Up the Sky" at the acclaimed Lee Strasberg Theater Institute, "Beyond Therapy" at the John Houseman Theater, and "Beginnings" at Circle in the Square. She began appearing in small and bit parts in films like In & Out and Vig. Clare first rose to attention as the hard-nosed cheerleader "Courtney" in the blockbuster hit Bring It On appearing alongside Kirsten Dunst and Eliza Dushku. Immediately following, Clare was cast in a recurring role as "Glory", the vain hell-goddess on the television hit Buffy the Vampire Slayer which gained Clare additional acclaim as one of Buffy's most popular adversaries. Clare has worked in both major studio and independent films, the most notable being Roger Avary's feature adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis' The Rules of Attraction, as well as "Lucy In the Sky" in the film D.E.B.S. She was also cast in lead roles in The Skulls III.   She also appeared on television in a few guest appearances on Sabrina the Teenage Witch, The Random Years, and Tru Calling. She continues to work for both stage and movie roles, most recently with the horror flick The Gravedancers. Clare is also active in various charities dating back to 1992 when she helped the Ohio Recreation Unlimited and in 1993 when she served as a summer camp counselor at a YMCA camp for children with physical disabilities. During the summer months from 1992 to 1997, she taught young adults with developmental disabilities at the Young Adult Institute in New York. She worked during the summer of 2000 at LA's Camp Laurel and participated in a 2002 bicycle race to raise money for Children International. Also in 2002, Clare rode her bicycle in the annual AIDS Ride, where participants ride over a seven-day period that takes them from San Francisco to Los Angeles. In 2006, while on a trip to Australia and New Zealand with her husband, film producer Brian R. Keathley, Clare delivered school supplies to the small village of Tufi, Papua New Guinea.   Amy McCarthy Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is the Director of Social Work for the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program (ASAP) at Boston Children's Hospital where she provides direct clinical and programmatic support.  Additionally, Amy has extensive experience working in community-based settings providing care to young people living with complex mental health needs, and their families. As the former director of the Boston-Suffolk County Family Resource Center, she worked with an abundance of community partners to ensure residents had access to vital resources to meet basic needs and beyond. Amy received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW) from Siena College and earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Wheelock College.    Trevor Donovan Trevor Donovan was born in Mammoth Lakes, California. Trevor grew up skiing & snowboarding, and during his teens, was on the US teen ski team. Trevor is a true renaissance man, aside from being proficient at most sports, he can play guitar and sing, earned a bachelor's degree in graphic design, and is an active ambassador for Habitat for Humanity & the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice & Human Rights, a canine advocate, and started a nationwide anti-bullying program called Team Upstanders. #TeamUpstanders Trevor is most known for his work as a fan favorite, Teddy Montgomery on the global pop culture phenom 90210, as the show's 1st and only lgbtq+ character that was a series regular. Trevor also starred in the History Channel epic mini-series Texas Rising opposite Bill Paxton, Ray Liotta, and Jeffrey Dean Morgan. Donovan's upcoming projects include the movie Reagan with Dennis Quaid, as well as Wolfhound, Aloha with Love, The Engagement Plot, and Hot Water. His TV credits include recurring roles on Sun Records, The Client List, Melissa & Joey, Awkward, NCIS, and Lucifer. As a leading man in Rom-Coms, Trevor has starred in the following titles: Strawberry Summer, Love on a Limb, Marry Me at Christmas, Snowcoming, Nostalgic Christmas, Love, Fall & Order, USS Christmas, Two For The Win, Nantucket Noel, Jingle Bell Princess, Aloha with Love, The Engagement Plot, Love Finds You in Charm, Runaway Romance, Prescription for Love, and Love, Lost & Found. Donovan is active daily on social media, with a worldwide reach of over 10 million people a month across 3 platforms. Donovan refers to his social media platforms as "An escape from negativity and a positive place for pet lovers." Donovan is also an author, he wrote 3 children's books: "Love Always, Dogbert & Tito" and "Love Always, Dogbert's Journey" which features Dogbert the German Shepherd, Tito the English Bulldog, and Shadow the Golden Retriever on their magical adventures. The third book is called "Love Always, Chance the Courageous" and introduces Chance to the CK9 Crew. Donovan's "Love Always" series is inspired by real-life everyday experiences that have been shared with millions of devoted fans around the world via his social media channels. They are stories about love, inspiration, and hope for adults and children of all ages that end on a happy note.   Erin Wick Erin L. Wick is the Senior Director of Behavioral Health and Integrated Student Supports at Capital Region ESD 113 in Tumwater, Washington supporting 44 school districts and one tribal compact school who serve about 73,000 students and their families.  Erin also serves in the role of State Lead for COVID response for Behavioral Health for the Association of Educational Service Districts in Washington State. Erin has dedicated her career to increasing systems of care for the health and wellness of the region. She and her team partner with school leaders, governmental and public agencies, and communities across the region and Washington state. In 2022, Erin’s team was recognized by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy’s National Drug Control Strategy for their innovation and positive student outcomes using the Student Assistance Program model.   About Elks As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith-based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all-volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people!    About DEA The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA is tasked with enforcing the controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the largest and most effective anti-drug organization in the world, with 239 domestic locations and 91 foreign offices in 68 countries.

In this overwhelming opioid epidemic, it’s more important than ever to educate our youth and try to prevent them from having to face this problem. For today’s awkward conversation, Clare Kramer is joined by Catie Drew who is the Senior Prevention Program Manager in the DEAs Community Outreach and Prevention Support Section, Bill Bryan who is the Assistant National Director of the Elks Drug Awareness Program, and Drew Hammill who is a Senior Instructional Design Manager for Discovery Education.   They share incredible resources that are relevant to not only parents and their kids (youth and teens,) but also to other organizations such as schools, scouts, and faith-based organizations. One person can make a difference so listen in today to learn how to spread awareness and educate others.   IN THIS EPISODE: [01:13] Operation Prevention information [03:06] Where the information comes from [08:27] How to get other organizations involved [13:06] The Elk’s history and what they do for the community [18:24] Katie explains the parent's toolkit [19:30] Drew emphasizes the opioid epidemic and our role in stopping it   KEY TAKEAWAYS: There are resources out there for parents, teens, and teachers. Parents should use resources with their kids/ teens to talk about it together. The community is important to help raise awareness as well. It starts with parents but then extends to schools, scout organizations, faith-based organizations, and others. One person can make a difference.   Resources:   Get Smart About Drugs Website Operation Prevention Website Growing Up Drug-Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention   Elks Kidzone Website One Pill Could Kill Never Thought I’d Say This Podcast with Jodie  Awkward Breakfast Conversations - Ep. 1 Awkward Lunch Conversations - Ep. 2 Awkward Dinner Conversations - Ep. 3 Elks Drug Awareness Program Website Elks DAP on Twitter Elks DAP on Facebook Elks DAP on YouTube DEA Website DEA on Instagram DEA on Twitter DEA on Facebook DEA YouTube Channel ***DISCLAIMER***The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Awkward Conversation series are solely those of the individuals, speakers, commentators, experts and or hosts involved and do not necessarily reflect nor represent those of the production, associates or broadcaster, or any of its employees. Production is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the series available for viewing. The primary purpose of this series is to educate and inform. This series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This series is available for private, non-commercial use only. The production, broadcaster, or its channel cannot be held accountable for all or any views expressed during this program.  BIOs:   Clare Kramer A graduate of NYU’s prestigious Tisch School of the Arts, Clare earned her BFA in just three years. While in New York, Clare appeared in numerous stage plays including one turn as Helen Keller in the stage version of "The Miracle Worker", the lead role in "Light Up the Sky" at the acclaimed Lee Strasberg Theater Institute, "Beyond Therapy" at the John Houseman Theater, and "Beginnings" at Circle in the Square. She began appearing in small and bit parts in films like In & Out and Vig. Clare first rose to attention as the hard-nosed cheerleader "Courtney" in the blockbuster hit Bring It On appearing alongside Kirsten Dunst and Eliza Dushku. Immediately following, Clare was cast in a recurring role as "Glory", the vain hell-goddess on the television hit Buffy the Vampire Slayer which gained Clare additional acclaim as one of Buffy's most popular adversaries. Clare has worked in both major studio and independent films, the most notable being Roger Avary's feature adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis' The Rules of Attraction, as well as "Lucy In the Sky" in the film D.E.B.S. She was also cast in lead roles in The Skulls III.   She also appeared on television in a few guest appearances on Sabrina the Teenage Witch, The Random Years, and Tru Calling. She continues to work for both stage and movie roles, most recently with the horror flick The Gravedancers.   Clare is also active in various charities dating back to 1992 when she helped the Ohio Recreation Unlimited and in 1993 when she served as a summer camp counselor at a YMCA camp for children with physical disabilities. During the summer months from 1992 to 1997, she taught young adults with developmental disabilities at the Young Adult Institute in New York. She worked during the summer of 2000 at LA's Camp Laurel and participated in a 2002 bicycle race to raise money for Children International. Also in 2002, Clare rode her bicycle in the annual AIDS Ride, where participants ride over a seven-day period that takes them from San Francisco to Los Angeles. In 2006, while on a trip to Australia and New Zealand with her husband, film producer Brian R. Keathley, Clare delivered school supplies to the small village of Tufi, Papua New Guinea.   Catie Drew- Cathleen (Catie) Drew joined the Drug Enforcement Administration in 2006 as the Education Coordinator for the DEA Museum. She is currently a Senior Prevention Program Manager in DEA’s Community Outreach and Prevention Support Section. In this capacity, she helps educate the public and communicate the Administration’s drug prevention messages. She is responsible for the oversight of the Operation Prevention drug prevention curriculum (in collaboration with Discovery Education) and the numerous drug prevention publications provided by DEA’s Community Outreach and Prevention Support Section. Catie previously worked as an Interpretive Science Park Ranger for the National Park Service, an Environmental Education Specialist for the Smithsonian Institution, and a Marine Biologist for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Catie has an undergraduate degree in Environmental Biology from the University of Colorado, and a Master’s Degree in Museum Education from George Washington University. She lives with her family in Northern Virginia.   Bill Bryan- William “Bill” Bryan is a 50+ year member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, who has been involved in the Elks’ Drug Awareness Program since its inception in the late 1980s.  Currently, he serves as the Assistant National Director of the DAP and along with the other Directors is responsible for training State Chairs and providing them with support in their efforts. Prior to his retirement in 2006, Bill spent his professional career working with families and children in a variety of capacities as a police officer; social worker, and Correctional Superintendent.  His focus has always been on creating a safer community for everyone, with a strong belief that one person can make a difference.   Drew Hammill- Drew is a Senior Instructional Design Manager for Discovery Education. He holds an M.A in Social Studies Education and a Masters in School Administration from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He began his career as an AmeriCorps volunteer working with students with behavioral and emotional disorders. Drew has served as a high school social studies teacher, school administrator, and curriculum coordinator for K-12 Social Studies in Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools. While serving in these roles, he led professional development in areas of inquiry-based learning, literacy integration, and social-emotional learning. About Elks As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith-based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all-volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people!    About DEA The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA is tasked with enforcing the controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the largest and most effective anti-drug organization in the world, with 239 domestic locations and 91 foreign offices in 68 countries.

Today’s awkward conversation is about knowing the signs of possible drug use and what to do. Our host, Jodie Sweetin is joined by Timothy P. McMahon who has been employed by the DEA since 1998 and Amy McCarthy, Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital.   Special Agent McMahon shares common ways that kids hide drugs in plain sight and what signs to look for with changes to personality, involvement, or money use. They also share tips on how to talk to your child about drugs and how to respond with love rather than anger if you discover your child is using drugs. This topic can be scary and overwhelming to parents but they need to remember the sooner you address it, the better.  IN THIS EPISODE: [01:44] How to look for drug use with your children [08:56] How to respond if you discover your child is using drugs [15:45] The magic number of 25 [17:10] What are signs to look for   KEY TAKEAWAYS: Teenagers often hide drugs in plain sight. Some places could be behind picture frames on the wall, in a book on their bookshelf, or even in a pop can or tennis ball. If you discover that your kids are using drugs, be sure to not respond in anger. Take a step back and collect your thoughts before approaching your child. Rather than lecture them, ask open ended questions and come at if from a place of wanting to understand what’s going on. When you find these drugs you need to address the situation as quickly as possible because the situation will only get worse. And with each time that they use or engage in drug use, it can only lead to that much more danger. Resources:   Growing Up Drug Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention   Hidden in Plain Sight  SAMHSA Treatment Service Locator  One Pill Could Kill Campus Drug Prevention  Never Thought I’d Say This Podcast with Jodie Sweeti  BIO:   Jodi Sweetin is an American actress and television personality known for her role as Stephanie Tanner in the ABC comedy series Full House and its Netflix sequel series Fuller House. Jodie is joined by Content Expert Amy McCarthy, a Senior Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital. @jodiesweetin   Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is the Director of Social Work for the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program (ASAP) at Boston Children's Hospital where she provides direct clinical and programmatic support.  Additionally, Amy has extensive experience working in community based settings providing care to young people living with complex mental health needs, and their families. As the former director of the Boston-Suffolk County Family Resource Center, she worked with an abundance of community partners to ensure residents had access to vital resources to meet basic needs and beyond. Amy received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW) from Siena College, and earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Wheelock College.  Special Agent Timothy P. McMahon has been employed by the Drug Enforcement Administration since October 1998 and has been assigned to DEA’s New Jersey Division.  Prior to becoming a Special Agent with the DEA he spent six (6) years as a trooper with the New York State Police from October 1992 thru October 1998.  Special Agent McMahon has been assigned to enforcement and task force groups investigating drug trafficking organizations. He has also served as the Special Agent Recruiter, Demand Reduction Coordinator and Public Information Officer. Special Agent McMahon was recently promoted to Group Supervisor for the Special Support Unit. Supervisory Special Agent McMahon earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from St. Bonaventure University.   The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Awkward Conversation series are solely those of the individuals, speakers, commentators, experts and or hosts involved and do not necessarily reflect nor represent those of the production, associates or broadcaster or any of its employees. Production is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the series available for viewing. The primary purpose of this series is to educate and inform. This series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This series is available for private, non-commercial use only. The production, broadcaster or its channel cannot be held accountable for all or any views expressed during this program.   About Elks   As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people!    About DEA The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA is tasked with enforcing the controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the largest and most effective anti drug organization in the world, with 239 domestic locations and 91 foreign offices in 68 countries.   Elks Kid Zone Website     Watch Awkward Conversations Season 1 the series:  Awkward Breakfast Conversations - Ep. 1  Awkward Lunch Conversations - Ep. 2  Awkward Dinner Conversations - Ep. 3  Elks Drug Awareness Program Website  Elks DAP on Twitter  Elks DAP on Facebook  Elks DAP on YouTube  DEA Website  DEA on Instagram  DEA on Twitter  DEA on Facebook  DEA YouTube Channel

Today’s conversation is extremely important for parents to hear as we talk about how young people are being targeted by drug cartels with deadly fake prescription pills. Clare Kramer is joined by Wendy Woolcock, the special agent in charge of the special operations division at the DEA and returning guest, Amy McCarthy, Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital. Wendy explains the messaging and rising death toll behind the One Pill Can Kill initiative and how Mexican drug cartels are literally making a killing off fentanyl-laced pills. Wendy, Amy and Claire share how parents can protect their children and the importance of educating them about the fact that one pill can kill!  IN THIS EPISODE: [00:45] The initiative behind One Pill Can Kill and the growing fentanyl epidemic [02:46] What is a lethal amount of fentanyl and why is fentanyl the new drug of choice [07:51] The process that these fake pills are being manufactured [12:33] What do these pills look like [14:33] What can parents do to protect their children and how to have this  awkward conversations with your kid KEY TAKEAWAYS: We have seen two milligrams of fentanyl alone in one of these fake pills is a deadly dose of fentanyl and can kill an individual. That amount is equivalent to several pieces of salt or sugar on the end of a pencil tip. That means a very, very small amount can be lethal, hence, the statement one pill can kill. The DEA has found that along with the CDC that four out of 10 pills can contain a lethal dose of fentanyl. Last year, the CDC stated around 108,000 people died as a result of an unintentional overdose death. This is not simply a law enforcement problem, and it is definitely not a law enforcement solution. It is a unified effort that needs to be taken on by parents, schools, and leaders in our communities. And we have to educate children about this serious threat. Resources:   Growing Up Drug Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention   One Pill Could Kill https://www.dea.gov/onepill Never Thought I’d Say This Podcast with Jodie Sweeti   The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Awkward Conversation series are solely those of the individuals, speakers, commentators, experts and or hosts involved and do not necessarily reflect nor represent those of the production, associates or broadcaster or any of its employees. Production is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the series available for viewing. The primary purpose of this series is to educate and inform. This series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This series is available for private, non-commercial use only. The production, broadcaster or its channel cannot be held accountable for all or any views expressed during this program.    BIO: Clare Kramer A graduate of NYU’s prestigious Tisch School of the Arts, Clare earned her BFA in just three years. While in New York, Clare appeared in numerous stage plays including one turn as Helen Keller in the stage version of "The Miracle Worker", the lead role in "Light Up the Sky" at the acclaimed Lee Strasberg Theater Institute, "Beyond Therapy" at the John Houseman Theater, and "Beginnings" at Circle in the Square. She began appearing in small and bit parts in films like In & Out and Vig. Clare first rose to attention as the hard-nosed cheerleader "Courtney" in the blockbuster hit Bring It On appearing alongside Kirsten Dunst and Eliza Dushku. Immediately following, Clare was cast in a recurring role as "Glory", the vain hell-goddess on the television hit Buffy the Vampire Slayer which gained Clare additional acclaim as one of Buffy's most popular adversaries.Clare has worked in both major studio and independent films, the most notable being Roger Avary's feature adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis' The Rules of Attraction, as well as "Lucy In the Sky" in the film D.E.B.S.. She was also cast in lead roles in The Skulls III.   She also appeared on television in a few guest appearances on Sabrina the Teenage Witch, The Random Years, and Tru Calling. She continues to work for both stage and movie roles, most recently with the horror flick The Gravedancers.   Clare is also active in various charities dating back to 1992 when she helped the Ohio's Recreation Unlimited and in 1993 when she served as a summer camp counselor at a YMCA camp for children with physical disabilities. During summer months from 1992 to 1997, she taught young adults with development disabilities at the Young Adult Institute in New York. She worked during the summer of 2000 at LA's Camp Laurel and participated in a 2002 bicycle race to raise money for Children International. Also in 2002, Clare rode her bicycle in the annual AIDS Ride, whereas participants ride over a seven day period that takes them from San Francisco to Los Angeles. In 2006, while on a trip to Australia and New Zealand with her husband, film producer Brian R. Keathley, Clare delivered school supplies to the small village of Tufi, Papua New Guinea. Amy McCarthy, Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is the Director of Social Work for the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program (ASAP) at Boston Children's Hospital where she provides direct clinical and programmatic support.  Additionally, Amy has extensive experience working in community based settings providing care to young people living with complex mental health needs, and their families. As the former director of the Boston-Suffolk County Family Resource Center, she worked with an abundance of community partners to ensure residents had access to vital resources to meet basic needs and beyond. Amy received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW) from Siena College, and earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Wheelock College.      Ms. Wendy Woolcock is the Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Special Operations Division (SOD), a premier multi-agency operational coordination and deconfliction center supporting national security and public safety. In this capacity, she leads approximately 500 personnel, with representation from 35 partner agencies, including federal and state law enforcement, the intelligence community, the Department of Defense, and foreign law enforcement counterparts. SOD uses cutting-edge strategies and technology to support drug law enforcement. The core SOD mission is to attack national and international criminal and narco-terrorism organizations by targeting their command and control communications and leadership infrastructure.   Prior to serving as the SAC of SOD, Ms. Woolcock served as the SAC of the DEA Office of Training. In this role, she led a staff of approximately 255 DEA and contract employees dedicated to supporting DEA training in Quantico, VA, and at several additional off-site foreign and domestic training locations. In this role, Ms. Woolcock supported DEA’s mission to develop, deliver, and advocate preeminent law enforcement and non-law enforcement training to DEA personnel, as well as appropriate federal, state, local, and foreign, law enforcement counterparts. About Elks As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people!    About DEA The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA is tasked with enforcing the controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the largest and most effective anti drug organization in the world, with 239 domestic locations and 91 foreign offices in 68 countries.   Elks Kid Zone Website   Watch Awkward Conversations Season 1 the series:  Awkward Breakfast Conversations - Ep. 1  Awkward Lunch Conversations - Ep. 2  Awkward Dinner Conversations - Ep. 3  Elks Drug Awareness Program Website  Elks DAP on Twitter  Elks DAP on Facebook  Elks DAP on YouTube  DEA Website  DEA on Instagram  DEA on Twitter  DEA on Facebook  DEA YouTube Channel

Choosing a college or a university with your child is a big decision.Today, we are continuing the conversation about substance use among college students by talking through how best to choose a school that is serious about substance abuse prevention.    Host and Full House and Fuller House star Jodie Sweetin, is once again joined by special guests: Amy McCarthy, Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital, Rich Lucey, who is the Senior Prevention Program Manager of the Community Outreach and Prevention Support section for the DEA, Sally Linowski, who is the Associate Dean of Students Off Campus Student Life and Community Engagement at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and recent college graduate and star of season 1 of Awkward Conversations Seychelles Mizel.    In this episode, you will hear important advice for how to get the most out of your college campus tours by asking the right questions related to substance use prevention. Seychelles talks about using vlogs to get a better idea of campus life and culture before choosing a school. This episode ends with important advice for how to identify warning signs of substance abuse and how to use technology as a way to stay connected with your kids. IN THIS EPISODE: [00:30] What are questions that parents should ask when on campus tour about prevention services [04:34] What are campus culture things to look at when touring colleges [05:47] Seychelles’ hot tip for how she chose which college to attend [08:00] What questions to ask for students who may be in recovery [13:22] Understanding the issues of substance abuse and what resources are available for students with substance abuse struggles [16:35] Warning signs of substance abuse KEY TAKEAWAYS: When touring colleges, be sure to ask about what mental health resources are available and what their policy is on substance use. You can also ask to meet with someone in the Student Affairs office to talk about prevention activities and services. One thing parents can do is make sure that your kids know they can always call if they are struggling with substance abuse or any other issues that they might face at school. Parents should embrace technology, like FaceTime, as a way to stay in touch with your student. It also helps when looking for warning signs of substance abuse so you can see their face, see how they are doing, or even see the people they are hanging out with. Resources:   Growing Up Drug Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention     Campus Drug Prevention    One Pill Could Kill   Never Thought I’d Say This Podcast with Jodie Sweetin     BIO:   Jodie Sweetin is an American actress and television personality known for her role as Stephanie Tanner in the ABC comedy series Full House and its Netflix sequel series Fuller House. Jodie is joined by Content Expert Amy McCarthy, a Senior Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital. @jodiesweetin   Rich Lucey is a senior prevention program manager in the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Community Outreach and Prevention Support Section. Rich plans and executes educational and public information programs, evaluates program goals and outcomes, and serves as an advisor to the Section Chief and other DEA officials on drug misuse prevention and education programs. Rich formerly served as special assistant to the director for the federal Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, and worked as an education program specialist in the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Safe and Drug-Free Schools.   Sally Linowski, Ph.D., CHES has 30 years of experience in substance abuse prevention, community building and teaching in higher education. She serves as a consultant to campuses nationally on the strategic implementation of comprehensive prevention programs, including extensive experience ensuring compliance with federal mandates and planning and implementing individual and environmental prevention approaches. She has expertise in building meaningful campus and town partnerships and engaging students in addressing off campus student concerns as peer leaders. Currently, Sally is Senior Director, Off Campus Student Life and Community Engagement at UMass Amherst, where she oversees the Off Campus Student Center, Sorority and Fraternity Life, and Student Parent Programs. Sally is an adjunct assistant professor at the UMass Amherst School of Public Health and Health Sciences and founder/co-chair of the Campus and Community Coalition to Reduce High Risk Drinking.       The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Awkward Conversation series are solely those of the individuals, speakers, commentators, experts and or hosts involved and do not necessarily reflect nor represent those of the production, associates or broadcaster or any of its employees. Production is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the series available for viewing. The primary purpose of this series is to educate and inform. This series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This series is available for private, non-commercial use only. The production, broadcaster or its channel cannot be held accountable for all or any views expressed during this program.   About Elks   As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people!    About DEA The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA is tasked with enforcing the controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the largest and most effective anti drug organization in the world, with 239 domestic locations and 91 foreign offices in 68 countries.   Elks Kid Zone Website     Watch Awkward Conversations Season 1 the series:  Awkward Breakfast Conversations - Ep. 1  Awkward Lunch Conversations - Ep. 2  Awkward Dinner Conversations - Ep. 3  Elks Drug Awareness Program Website  Elks DAP on Twitter    Elks DAP on Facebook  Elks DAP on YouTube  DEA Website  DEA on Instagram  DEA on Twitter  DEA on Facebook  DEA YouTube Channel 

So much of this series is about being present in our kids’ lives and preparing them to make the smart choices…so the day has finally come where they are going out into the world, is our job now done? SPOILER ALERT: NO! Today’s Awkward Conversation isfocusing on drug use prevention among college students.   We have Full House and FullerHouse star, Jodie Sweetin guiding the conversation along with Amy McCarthy, Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children’s Hospital and Rich Lucey, who is the Senior Prevention Program Manager of the Community Outreach and Prevention Support section for the Drug Enforcement Administration. They are joined by Sally Linowski, who is the Associate Dean of Students for Off Campus Student Life and Community Engagement at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and recent college graduate, Seychelles Mizel. They start their discussion with the four main reasons that students experiment with drugs and how college presents new opportunities for drug use. This is an important conversation about preventing drug misuse among college students, which is a critical issue to talk about with your kids before they go to school. IN THIS EPISODE: [01:29] Four main reasons for drug experimentation [04:08] The college experience and the pressures that kids face related to drug use [08:30] One pill can kill: the growing problem of fake medication [10:20] How and when should parents start having conversations about drug use prevention [15:21] Ways freshmen can get make friends at school without the party scene KEY TAKEAWAYS: The first six weeks on campus are typically the most at risk for new college students to experiment with drugs because it is the first time away from home and they're no longer under any form of parental influence. For marijuana use, the perceived risk of harm for 18- to 22- year- olds is only at 21%. Meaning, only 21% see any risk in using marijuana. The prescription drug class most misused by college students are non-medical prescription stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin. This is where students run into the issue of taking fake pills and is the reason why we are seeing more overdoses across the country.   Resources:   Growing Up Drug Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention   Campus Drug Prevention One Pill Could Kill Never Thought I’d Say This Podcast with Jodie Sweetin     BIO:   Jodie Sweetin is an American actress and television personality known for her role as Stephanie Tanner in the ABC comedy series Full House and its Netflix sequel series Fuller House. Jodie is joined by Content Expert Amy McCarthy, a Senior Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital. @jodiesweetin   Rich Lucey is a senior prevention program manager in the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Community Outreach and Prevention Support Section. Rich plans and executes educational and public information programs, evaluates program goals and outcomes, and serves as an advisor to the Section Chief and other DEA officials on drug misuse prevention and education programs. Rich formerly served as special assistant to the director for the federal Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, and worked as an education program specialist in the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Safe and Drug-Free Schools.   Sally Linowski, Ph.D., CHES has 30 years of experience in substance abuse prevention, community building and teaching in higher education. She serves as a consultant to campuses nationally on the strategic implementation of comprehensive prevention programs, including extensive experience ensuring compliance with federal mandates and planning and implementing individual and environmental prevention approaches. She has expertise in building meaningful campus and town partnerships and engaging students in addressing off campus student concerns as peer leaders. Currently, Sally is Senior Director, Off Campus Student Life and Community Engagement at UMass Amherst, where she oversees the Off Campus Student Center, Sorority and Fraternity Life, and Student Parent Programs. Sally is an adjunct assistant professor at the UMass Amherst School of Public Health and Health Sciences and founder/co-chair of the Campus and Community Coalition to Reduce High Risk Drinking.   The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Awkward Conversation series are solely those of the individuals, speakers, commentators, experts and or hosts involved and do not necessarily reflect nor represent those of the production, associates or broadcaster or any of its employees. Production is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the series available for viewing. The primary purpose of this series is to educate and inform. This series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This series is available for private, non-commercial use only. The production, broadcaster or its channel cannot be held accountable for all or any views expressed during this program.   About Elks   As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people!    About DEA The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA is tasked with enforcing the controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the largest and most effective anti drug organization in the world, with 239 domestic locations and 91 foreign offices in 68 countries.   Elks Kid Zone Website   Watch Awkward Conversations Season 1 the series:  Awkward Breakfast Conversations - Ep. 1  Awkward Lunch Conversations - Ep. 2  Awkward Dinner Conversations - Ep. 3  Elks Drug Awareness Program Website  Elks DAP on Twitter  Elks DAP on Facebook  Elks DAP on YouTube  DEA Website  DEA on Instagram  DEA on Twitter  DEA on Facebook  DEA YouTube Channel 

The best foundation for having awkward conversations with your children starts with building a strong family bond. Our host, Full House and Fuller House star, Jodie Sweetin, is joined by Amy McCarthy, Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital and Heidi P. Dutson who serves as a prevention administrator at the Utah Department of Human Services. In Part 1 of this conversation, they are chatting with American film and television actor and father of three, Greg Grunberg about the importance of building strong relationships with your kids. They talk about practical ways to build trust and connect with your kids. They also encourage parents that you don’t have to have all of the right answers– you just need to create a safe place for kids to turn to when danger comes or when the world overwhelms them. IN THIS EPISODE: [01:30] How to keep communication open with your children [05:07] How to handle sensitive information about a child’s friend [09:30] Using social media as a parent [14:49] Connecting with your kids [18:20] Being a present parent KEY TAKEAWAYS: Research shows that kids are 33% less likely to drink or have substance abuse problems if they have a consistent family dinner with people that they love.  Trust is essential as a foundational building block in opening the lines of communication with your children. The best thing you can do is be present with them, build trust, and give them a safe space to share. Resources:   Resources for parents, educators, and caregivers wanting to learn more about how to effectively keep an open dialogue with children about drug use, signs of use, and more  Growing Up Drug Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention   One Pill Could Kill Never Thought I’d Say This Podcast with Jodie Sweetin  Let’s Talk About it! Podcast with Greg Grunberg    DISCLAIMER: The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Awkward Conversation series are solely those of the individuals, speakers, commentators, experts and or hosts involved and do not necessarily reflect nor represent those of the production, associates or broadcaster or any of its employees. Production is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the series available for viewing. The primary purpose of this series is to educate and inform. This series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This series is available for private, non-commercial use only. The production, broadcaster or its channel cannot be held accountable for all or any views expressed during this program.   BIO: Jodie Sweetin is an American actress and television personality known for her role as Stephanie Tanner in the ABC comedy series Full House and its Netflix sequel series Fuller House. Jodie is joined by Content Expert Amy McCarthy, a Senior Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital. @jodiesweetin     Greg Grunberg is best known for his role as X-wing pilot Snap Wexley in “STAR WARS”, as well as “STAR TREK”, “A STAR IS BORN” and alongside Al Pacino in the Barry Levinson film‘PATERNO.’ In addition to his many memorable series regular roles on shows “HEROES”, “CASTLE ROCK”, “LOST”, “ALIAS” and “FELICITY”. Currently Grunberg stars alongside Kevin Smith in the cult classic “MAX RELOAD & THE NETHERBLASTERS” as well as the much beloved “BIG ASS SPIDER”. Greg has written pilots & films and co-wrote the graphic novel series “DREAM JUMPER” for Scholastic. Book 2 is available everywhere now. Grunberg hosted and produced alongside Kevin Smith the pop-culture talk show “GEEKING OUT” for AMC and currently is a staple on the popular gameshow “25 WORDS OR LESS”. He has a few podcasts “TALK ABOUT IT”, “VESTED INTEREST”, & “AN ACTOR, COMEDIAN & A MUSICIAN WALK INTO A BAR”. Currently he is shooting his popular YouTube series “THE CAREGIVER“ for the Epilepsy community.   As a drummer, Grunberg started his celebrity rock band “THE ACTION FIGURES“(TheActionFiguresBand.com) with fellow actors Jesse Spencer, Adrian Pasdar, Jack Coleman, and Scott Grimes benefiting TalkAboutIt.org, his foundation to raise awareness for people with Epilepsy as his eldest son has the condition. Grunberg has been voted one of the most interesting actors to follow on Twitter & IG. @greggrunberg      Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is the Director of Social Work for the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program (ASAP) at Boston Children's Hospital where she provides direct clinical and programmatic support.  Additionally, Amy has extensive experience working in community based settings providing care to young people living with complex mental health needs, and their families. As the former director of the Boston-Suffolk County Family Resource Center, she worked with an abundance of community partners to ensure residents had access to vital resources to meet basic needs and beyond. Amy received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW) from Siena College, and earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Wheelock College.  @amymccarthylicsw        Heidi Peterson Dutson is a Certified Prevention Specialist, currently employed as an Administrator and  Regional Director  for the  Department of Health and Human Services, Office of  Substance Use and Mental Health. Heidi  formerly oversaw prevention efforts through the coordination of a Communities That Care Coalition in Tooele City.  She helps to advise the Parents Empowered Underage Drinking Prevention Workgroup, the Utah State Epidimiology Outcomes Workgroup, and the Utah Faith Suicide Prevention Worgroup.  Heidi is passionate about helping parents and communities collaborate to make the best use of resources and partnerships to synergize prevention efforts around substance abuse and mental health issues.     @utahdhhs     About Elks As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people!   About DEA The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA is tasked with enforcing the controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the largest and most effective anti drug organization in the world, with 239 domestic locations and 91 foreign offices in 68 countries. Elks Kid Zone Website Watch Awkward Conversations Season 1 the series:  Awkward Breakfast Conversations - Ep. 1  Awkward Lunch Conversations - Ep. 2  Awkward Dinner Conversations - Ep. 3  Elks Drug Awareness Program Website  Elks DAP on Twitter  Elks DAP on Facebook  Elks DAP on YouTube  DEA Website  DEA on Instagram  DEA on Twitter DEA on Facebook  DEA YouTube Channel 

We are continuing the conversation about how you can build strong bonds with your kids in today's episode of Awkward Conversations with host and Full House and Fuller House star, Jodie Sweetin. Jodie is joined by Amy McCarthy, Sr. Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital and Heidi P. Dutson who serves as a prevention administrator at the Utah Department of Human Services.   Heidi kicks off the episode by explaining the science behind boundaries and clear standards in parenting and how it prevents future behavioral issues like substance abuse. They also share practical ways that parents can connect with their kids through teaching basic skills, spending quality time together, and establishing family meetings.     IN THIS EPISODE: [01:12] What is the Social Development Strategy [08:00] How consequences and boundaries help kids [09:48] Ways to create a strong bond with your kids [16:55] The importance of listening and spending time with your kids KEY TAKEAWAYS: The very first thing kids need is really clear standards on a healthy belief – AKA rules. They need to know very clearly what your family standards are and that they are for their protection and safety. One way to build a strong bond with a child is to find an opportunity to teach them a skill and then reinforce that with appropriate recognition and praise. Get in the habit of spending 10 to 15 minutes a day focusing on your child(ren) and seeing the world through their eyes.  Resources:   Growing Up Drug Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention     One Pill Could Kill   Never Thought I’d Say This Podcast with Jodie Sweetin      DISCLAIMER: The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Awkward Conversation series are solely those of the individuals, speakers, commentators, experts and or hosts involved and do not necessarily reflect nor represent those of the production, associates or broadcaster or any of its employees. Production is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the series available for viewing. The primary purpose of this series is to educate and inform. This series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This series is available for private, non-commercial use only. The production, broadcaster or its channel cannot be held accountable for all or any views expressed during this program.   BIO: Jodie Sweetin is an American actress and television personality known for her role as Stephanie Tanner in the ABC comedy series Full House and its Netflix sequel series Fuller House. Jodie is joined by Content Expert Amy McCarthy, a Senior Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital. @jodiesweetin     Greg Grunberg is best known for his role as X-wing pilot Snap Wexley in “STAR WARS”, as well as “STAR TREK”, “A STAR IS BORN” and alongside Al Pacino in the Barry Levinson film‘PATERNO.’ In addition to his many memorable series regular roles on shows “HEROES”, “CASTLE ROCK”, “LOST”, “ALIAS” and “FELICITY”. Currently Grunberg stars alongside Kevin Smith in the cult classic “MAX RELOAD & THE NETHERBLASTERS” as well as the much beloved “BIG ASS SPIDER”. Greg has written pilots & films and co-wrote the graphic novel series “DREAM JUMPER” for Scholastic. Book 2 is available everywhere now. Grunberg hosted and produced alongside Kevin Smith the pop-culture talk show “GEEKING OUT” for AMC and currently is a staple on the popular gameshow “25 WORDS OR LESS”. He has a few podcasts “TALK ABOUT IT”, “VESTED INTEREST”, & “AN ACTOR, COMEDIAN & A MUSICIAN WALK INTO A BAR”. Currently he is shooting his popular YouTube series “THE CAREGIVER“ for the Epilepsy community. As a drummer, Grunberg started his celebrity rock band “THE ACTION FIGURES“ (TheActionFiguresBand.com) with fellow actors Jesse Spencer, Adrian Pasdar, Jack Coleman, and Scott Grimes benefiting TalkAboutIt.org, his foundation to raise awareness for people with Epilepsy as his eldest son has the condition. Grunberg has been voted one of the most interesting actors to follow on Twitter & IG. @greggrunberg      Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is the Director of Social Work for the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program (ASAP) at Boston Children's Hospital where she provides direct clinical and programmatic support.  Additionally, Amy has extensive experience working in community based settings providing care to young people living with complex mental health needs, and their families. As the former director of the Boston-Suffolk County Family Resource Center, she worked with an abundance of community partners to ensure residents had access to vital resources to meet basic needs and beyond. Amy received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW) from Siena College, and earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Wheelock College.  @amymccarthylicsw      Heidi Peterson Dutson is a Certified Prevention Specialist, currently employed as an Administrator and  Regional Director  for the  Department of Health and Human Services, Office of  Substance Use and Mental Health. Heidi  formerly oversaw prevention efforts through the coordination of a Communities That Care Coalition in Tooele City.  She helps to advise the Parents Empowered Underage Drinking Prevention Workgroup, the Utah State Epidimiology Outcomes Workgroup, and the Utah Faith Suicide Prevention Worgroup.  Heidi is passionate about helping parents and communities collaborate to make the best use of resources and partnerships to synergize prevention efforts around substance abuse and mental health issues.     @utahdhhs   About Elks As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people!    About DEA The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA is tasked with enforcing the controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the largest and most effective anti drug organization in the world, with 239 domestic locations and 91 foreign offices in 68 countries.   Elks Kid Zone Website     Watch Awkward Conversations Season 1 the series:  Awkward Breakfast Conversations - Ep. 1  Awkward Lunch Conversations - Ep. 2  Awkward Dinner Conversations - Ep. 3  Elks Drug Awareness Program Website  Elks DAP on Twitter    Elks DAP on Facebook  Elks DAP on YouTube  DEA Website  DEA on Instagram  DEA on Twitter  DEA on Facebook  DEA YouTube Channel     

  The 20 episode, unscripted video podcast, Awkward Conversations, is  hosted by Full House and Fuller House star, Jodie Sweetin, and joined by Amy McCarthy, a Senior Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital.The two will be chatting with celebrity parents and guest experts on how to prepare for the awkward conversations with their kids and furthering the discussion on how to give parents the tools to empower their kids to stay safe, substance free and make smart decisions! Parenting comes with all sorts of trials and tribulations – particularly when your child reaches his or her teenage years. Join us each week as we cover a wide array of subjects that will help parents learn how to raise kids  with the necessary tools they need to stay safe, substance  free and make smart decisions.  Each episode will feature expert guests who will help guide parents and answer those tough questions that may come up in the ever changing world of raising kids.  The following are some of the subjects covered in Season 2: Signs of drug use in teens, fake pills, setting positive examples, preventing drug misuse among college students, bullying and peer pressure and its consequences, helping kids de-stress, Red Ribbon Week, understanding your kids’ social media use, do’s and don’ts when you talk about drugs, to list a few.    About Elks As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks DAP program is the nation's largest all volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people!  About DEA The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA is tasked with enforcing the controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the largest and most effective anti drug organization in the world, with 239 domestic locations and 91 foreign offices in 68 countries.  Resources For parents, educators, and caregivers wanting to learn more about how to effectively keep an open dialogue with children about drug use, signs of use, and more – visit https://bit.ly/GetSmartAboutDrugs   Growing Up Drug Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention https://bit.ly/GrowingUpDrugFree https://bit.ly/OnePill   Never Thought I’d Say This w/ Jodie Sweetin https://bit.ly/NeverThoughtIdSayThis   Let’s Talk About it!  Podcast w/ Greg Grunberg https://talkaboutit.org/epilepsy/podcast Elks Kid Zone https://bit.ly/elkskidszone Watch Awkward Conversations Season 1 the series Ep. 1: https://youtu.be/Dp4rAGwXW90?t=1 Ep. 2: https://youtu.be/_rMD0SOjGWc Ep. 3: https://youtu.be/KjQOPhl7RDE   For more information on ELKS DAP and what we stand for, visit https://bit.ly/ELKSDAP Twitter: https://bit.ly/twitter_elksdapn Facebook: https://bit.ly/facebook_elksdap Youtube: https://bit.ly/youtube_elksdap   To learn more about DEA and its contributions, visit https://www.dea.gov/contact-us/social... Instagram: https://bit.ly/instagram_deahq Twitter: https://bit.ly/twitterdeahq Facebook: https://bit.ly/facebookDEAHQ Youtube: https://bit.ly/ElksDrugAwarenessProgram