PrevenTable

S6 Ep 14: Power In Partnerships

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 05:00:00 -0000

On this week's episode of the PrevenTable, Jenny Armbruster sits down with Kristi Scoville and Jim Meyer of the Alliance for Healthy Communities (AHC). With more than 20 years of experience in prevention, Jim and Kristi have taken on a necessary calling to advance conversations about alcohol and substance use. AHC initiatives, such as "Lock It Up," aimed at securing unused Rx, vapes, cannabis, etc., and "Protect Your Game," which keeps athletes safe from alcohol and substances, reflect Kristi and Jim's eagerness to protect youth and establish partnerships across the St. Louis region, all bound by kindness and understanding for all.

S6 Ep 13: Stop Complaining, Do Something

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 05:00:00 -0000

On this week's episode of the PrevenTable, Jenny Armbruster sits down with St. Louis native and Missouri Senator Brian Williams. During his tenure, Sen. Williams has championed legislation that delivers meaningful, measurable impact for Missouri communities. His work revolves around public health, including the expansion of access to lifesaving care for sickle cell anemia patients. His fierce tenacity for serving the under-represented aligns instantaneously with PreventEd's mission of combatting the harms associated with alcohol and substance use.

S6 Ep 12: Curiosity That Cares

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 05:00:00 -0000

In this week's episode of the PrevenTable, Jenny Armbruster sits down with Patty Morrow, Vice President of Behavioral Health at Mercy Hospitals and a fellow Board Member of the Behavioral Health Network (BHN). Drawing on more than 20 years at Mercy, Patty shares her perspective on closing gaps in behavioral health services, the importance of transparency, and why staying curious about mental health can make a difference. She highlights the intersections where substance and alcohol use disorders meet behavioral health and how each of us can help reduce stigma by reaching out, starting conversations, and supporting one another.

S6 Ep 11 In The Weeds: Cannabinoids and the Youth

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 05:00:00 -0000

This week, PreventEd's Director of Advocacy Adam McBride sits down with Jenny Armbruster to explain the current state of cannabinoids in Missouri. He mentions the need to advocate at all levels of government for true regulation of these products. While licensed dispensaries are the go-to for most, people are still able to purchase misleading and commercially camouflaged cannabinoids at a local gas station. The call to action on this issue has been around since 2018, and, thankfully, Missouri legislation is starting to head in the right direction. Through educational and advocacy opportunities, PreventEd's mission aims to empower young adults to continue to make smart decisions about cannabis use, especially with school starting up soon.

S6 Ep10: Exercising Empathy

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 05:00:00 -0000

Sritha Rathikindi pulls up a chair at the PrevenTable this week with host Jenny Armbruster to talk about advocacy, especially the promise young people hold. Involved since eighth grade, Sritha has felt a strong calling to prevention and substance misuse. She attended Hear Us: PreventEd's annual advocacy event at the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City. She has seen the initiative grow from 6 to almost 30 people over the past year. Currently, she serves on the board of directors as our teen representative. The perspective she provides, not just for PreventEd's board of directors but also for our state legislators, is a crucial element in advocating in our communities for those dealing with substance and alcohol use disorders.

S6 Ep 9: Teen Institute 2026

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 05:00:00 -0000

For it's 46th year in a row, PreventEd is preparing to debut it's longest running youth leadership program; Teen Institute. Co-director's of this program, Grace DeClue and Ali Stambaugh, sit down with Jenny to showcase the exciting experiences TI will bring to those that sign up. From breakout sessions and drug-specific conversations, to camp tie-dye, scavenger hunts and nature hikes, participants can expect a weekend packed with critical team building and youth leadership development, with fun throw into the mix. Grades 9-12 are eligible to register, and PreventEd aims to make Teen Institute an accessible and unforgettable leadership retreat for all of its' participants. If you or somebody you know is interested, please visit the 🔗 in our bio!

S6 Ep 8: Building Community-led Structures

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 05:00:00 -0000

They're back! Luka Cai sits down with PrevenTable Host and Executive Director Jenny Armbruster to discuss all things SQSH, or St. Louis Queer Support & Healing. At SQSH, several new initiatives are rolling out in the coming months to help promote and facilitate queer safe havens across the St. Louis metro area. Luka makes mention of how as an organization they are keen on feedback, and letting that fuel the direction they see SQSH going in when it comes to addressing public concern for LGBTQIA+ population in St. Louis. Listen more for how you can stay connected with all the events happening during this years' Pride Month at SQSH! 🏳️‍🌈

S6 Ep 7: Growing Through Grief

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 05:00:00 -0000

Brittney Bonds pulls up a chair at the PrevenTable with Executive Director and Host, Jenny Armbruster, to unpack one of life's most powerful feelings; grief. While it has made itself abundantly present early on in her life, Brittney is using grief as fuel to make change in her life, and others' too. Bridging the gap that grief can carve in someone's life with compassion and understanding sparked Brittney's life long promise of giving back to those that gave to her. PreventEd recognizes and follows this commitment, especially when it comes to serving the community and aiding in practical, long-term recovery.

S6 Ep 6: Value in Vulnerability

Wed, 20 May 2026 05:00:00 -0000

He's back! James Pursell joins Jenny on the PrevenTable to recap all the groundbreaking work he's been doing since his debut episode in season three. Mentioning several coalitions across the St. Louis region. James shares his impact and how it can be measured across recovery services within the substance use, mental health, and labor recovery fields. Additionally, his time of three years as a Peer Support Specialist brings together the importance of being vulnerable with the fundamentally crucial mantra of simply showing up for your tribe. Navigating situations along the spectrum of recovery aligns with PreventEd and our mission statement of providing accessible resources to all.

S6 Ep #5: Nurturing Your Network

Wed, 06 May 2026 05:00:00 -0000

2025 Pioneer Award Recipient Dr. Fredrick Echols joins Jenny to highlight the significance of relationships, and how nurturing them can last a lifetime. Sharing both personal and professional anecdotes from his wide array of leadership opportunities, Dr. Echols discusses that his affiliation with PreventEd has empowered him to build a meaningful network, and rise to the role as a significant mentor throughout his community. Inspiring young people to be fueled by education and help incite change wherever they go is a crucial part of PreventEd's mission statement, and people like Dr. Echols serve as pioneer's for just that.

S6 Ep #4: An Affinity for Community

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0000

Ben Holtmeyer, Howard Potratz Alumni Leadership Award recipient and dedicated PreventEd supporter, joins Jenny to discuss the importance of being aware and staying connected to community in Saint Louis. Making mention of his close involvement with PreventEd spanning several years, Ben highlights the significance of how his time with the team has equipped and empowered him to serve as a pillar of advocacy in all areas throughout his professional and personal development.

S6 Ep #3: Staying Connected

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0000

Natalie Garrett, Director of Admissions and Outreach at Harris House Foundation, joins Jenny to discuss how Harris House supports individuals across the full continuum of care in recovery. They explore the organization’s programs, the importance of staying connected throughout the recovery journey, and the challenges posed by today’s insurance landscape. The conversation also highlights the value of honesty and having difficult conversations with loved ones—while emphasizing that hope remains at the heart of recovery and positive outcomes are always possible.

S6 Ep #2 In the Weeds - The Perception of Harm

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0000

PreventEd interns, Liz Smith and Austin Nico, share their reflections on their time at PreventEd as they enter their final semester at the Brown School of Social Work at Washington University in St. Louis. During their time at PreventEd, they have practiced applying what they've learned and shared their thoughts on the latest cannabis trends and on how we communicate this information to our teens.

S6 Ep 1: You Did the Thing

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0000

Season 6 of PrevenTable premieres with Nichole Dawsey, former Executive Director of PreventEd and now Executive Director of the Addiction Prevention Coalition. Nichole reflects on the camaraderie and connection that define PreventEd and what it meant to transition into leading the only organization in Alabama providing prevention education in schools. She also discusses cultural differences between Missouri and Alabama in both workplace dynamics and substance use prevention efforts, closing with a candid look at navigating the 36-hour federal funding freeze in January and the resilience required to lead through uncertainty.

S5 Ep 20: There's No Manual

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0000

In our Season 5 finale, Jenny sits down at the PrevenTable with Joyce Kariuki, PreventEd Associate Director of Community Strategy, for a conversation about what truly supports young people as they grow. Joyce breaks down the developmental assets that act as building blocks for youth success, explores the impact of both adverse and positive childhood experiences, and highlights why trauma-informed approaches matter. Through it all, she reminds us that there’s no rulebook for raising kids, but there are tools that can help us show up better for them.

S5 Ep 19: Overdose Prevention 101

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0000

We're back with another episode of the PrevenTable! Jenny sits down with Brenda Schell, Public Health Analyst and Liaison for the state of Missouri’s Overdose Response Strategy, and Brad Germann of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. They discuss the encouraging decline in overdose rates across Missouri since 2022 and highlight the impact of statewide naloxone distribution, with more than 630,000 kits provided to partners across 15 counties between July 2024 and June 2025. The conversation covers the signs of an overdose, emerging drug use trends, and the innovative strategies being implemented both in Missouri and nationwide to save lives and strengthen communities.

S5 Ep 18: Driving for a Difference

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0000

We welcomed Tasha Skouby, Grant Coordinator at Jefferson Franklin County Community Action Corporation, to the PrevenTable this week for a conversation about the partnership between The Collective and JFCAC’s EZMO program, which provides transportation for those in the county seeking recovery. Tasha addresses the three biggest community needs: transportation, housing, and childcare and what providing such resources means for recovery support. The two also discuss what the buzzword “collaboration” really means and how this partnership is its true definition.

S5 Ep 17: Trust, Love, and Connection

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0000

This week, we’re talking about one of biggest barriers to recovery—housing—and how one organization is working to change that. Our guest, Maggie Sullivan, is the executive director of Gratitude House, a sober living home for women that’s redefining what aftercare can look like. She shares how her team is elevating the recovery experience, building positive community culture, and how each person’s unique recovery journey still shares a few powerful universals.

S5 Ep 16: In the Weeds - Through Their Eyes

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0000

We've got some familiar faces on the pod this week—Jenny's three kids! Lucy (14), John (15), and Alex (11) bring some young wisdom to the table as they share their experience and insight about drug use in elementary, middle, and high school. They describe the attitudes and behaviors around vaping and cannabis use as well as their understanding of how to help a peer that may be struggling with substances.

S5 Ep 15: Small But Mighty

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Meet Matt Bitner-Glindzicz, founder of nCase Technologies, who—along with his fiancée—created a naloxone keychain to make carrying the lifesaving medication simple and accessible. After witnessing multiple overdose tragedies, Matt and Dani recognized the difficulty of regularly carrying naloxone due to its size and packaging, and decided to take matters into their own hands by creating a pocket-sized case for it. Now, they’re partnering with community groups to get naloxone into more hands, one keychain at a time.

S5 Ep 14: Creating Safe Spaces

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0000

This week on the PrevenTable, Callan Montgomery, director and co-founder of Haven Recovery, shares the inspiring story of starting the organization with her husband eight years ago. Since then, Haven Recovery has provided safe and supportive housing for more than 1,000 people on their recovery journeys. Callan highlights the essential resources they offer to those seeking stability and healing, as well as the impact of community support. She also shares ways listeners can get involved during Recovery Month to make a difference.

S5 Ep 13: Inside Olivette

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Olivette mayor Sidney Clark joins to give the inside scoop on his time working in politics for the city—the same city that PreventEd’s main office is located! Born and raised in the area, Sidney gushes about the way he’s seen the Olivette community grow, discusses the nonprofit footprint in the town, and even dishes on new spots and fun events for residents and visitors alike.

S5 Ep 12: Behind the Bar with Gen Z

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Studies show Gen Z is using substances at lower rates than any other generation. But is that really true? Jenny welcomes Abigail and Audrey Brown to the PrevenTable this week for some insight into what's going on in the world of Gen Z and substance use. Abigail, a server at a college bar, dishes the truth on what it's like to navigate the drinking scene amongst young adults, and the pair discuss recent health trends and prevention efforts surrounding abstaining from substances.

S5 Ep 11: Partnering for Prevention

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0000

This week on the PrevenTable, we talk with Ashley Johnson from the Missouri National Guard’s Counterdrug Program about her work supporting community prevention efforts. From distributing Narcan kits to schools to teaching mental health first aid, she’s helping make a difference across Missouri. Ashley shares what it’s been like to collaborate more closely with PreventEd and what’s ahead for this growing partnership.

S 5 Ep 10: In the Weeds - Safety Starts at Home

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 15:50:52 -0000

Amanda Ruback, Community Outreach Coordinator with the Missouri Poison Center, says cases of accidental cannabis overdose in children have been on the rise in Missouri since the legalization of the drug two years. This week, we welcomed her to the PrevenTable for a show and tell, where she discusses cannabis safety and storage and explains her role with the center.

S5 Ep 9: The Collective

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0000

In honor of The Collective’s grand opening, we brought in certified peer specialist John Singer to provide insight into his motivation for creating a recovery community center in Jefferson County. He explains the ability of RCC’s to lower barriers to recovery, our partnership with Jefferson Franklin Community Action Corporation, and why transportation services to treatment are so important in JeffCo. Come visit us at The Collective now!

S5 Ep 8: Leading With Lived Experience

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0000

It’s Executive Director x Executive Director today at the PrevenTable! Aaron Laxton with Assisted Recovery Centers of America (ARCA) details his background in social work, the story of ARCA’s beginnings, and the challenges of leading an organization right now.

S5 Ep 7: In the Weeds - Recovery on Campus

Wed, 28 May 2025 07:00:00 -0000

This week, we're headed back into the weeds with certified substance abuse counselor and clinical social worker Jay Winig! For the last 17 years, Jay has been a valued part of Saint Louis University’s Counseling Center, beginning the “Sober at SLU” support group for students in recovery, as well as the SHARP and CARRP programs intended to reduce the harm of alcohol and cannabis on campus. Jay and Jenny talk about how cannabis use has evolved since recreational-use legalization in Missouri, plus Jay's efforts to support students in managing the demands of college without drug use interfering.

S5 Ep 6: Recovery Without Barriers

Wed, 14 May 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Bill Whitney joins Jenny at the PrevenTable for a lesson on Recovery Community Organizations, independent centers focused on helping individuals achieve long-term recovery. Bill and his wife, inspired by their own recovery journeys and the feature documentary “The Anonymous People,” opened their own RCO in Georgia after witnessing the success of peer driven models. He tells the backstory of the RCO’s founding, plus discusses his goal to reduce barriers to recovery.

S5 Ep 5: Military Mentality

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0000

In the U.S. military, masculine gender norms and an emphasis on mental toughness have traditionally been practiced to enforce stoicism within troops. But, mental health and masculinity often clash during the effort to reduce stigma surrounding veterans’ abilities to cope with trauma. Chris Mendes, Director of Operations at Veterans Community Project, directly speaks to his and others’ experience with this military mentality, the crossover between veteran populations with substance misuse, and the VCP’s attempts to connect veterans to behavioral health services.

S5 Ep 4: Inside the Student Survey

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Susan Bradford of the Missouri Institute of Mental Health is here to give us the scoop on current rates and trends of drug use among young people. She shares what’s working—and what’s not—plus describes the impact of and takeaways from the Missouri Student Survey.

S5 Ep 3: Heart Work

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Lakesha Robinson, Sr. Advisor on Children, Youth, & Families to the St. Louis city mayor, joins Jenny to share more about her “heart” work. Focusing on resource access for families and community collaboration, Lakesha explains the impact of the Mayor’s Youth Cabinet, describes how connection helps reduce risk factors for youth, and dives into the details of several initiatives she runs.

S5 Ep 2: In the Weeds - Cannabis & College

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0000

What’s the real deal with cannabis use among young people? Thankfully, we have graduate students Madeline and Sam from Washington University St. Louis here to provide insight on college students’ current attitudes and opinions about cannabis. Listen as they break down how the conversation has shifted, plus the varying levels of knowledge and use of the substance.

S5 Ep 1: Never Alone

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0000

We’re starting off strong in our Season 5 premiere of the PrevenTable! PreventEd volunteer and small business owner Lisa Lorenz joins Jenny for a conversation on her recovery journey, sharing how she found community through others' stories and touching on the unique lived experience of being a woman in recovery from alcohol use disorder.

S4 Ep 36: Saying Goodbye

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0000

It’s our Season 4 Finale! We’re joined by none other than Nichole Dawsey as our final guest for the year while Interim Executive Director Jenny Armbruster gets a practice run as host (stay tuned for Season 5 ). Nichole reflects on her 16 years at the agency, sharing more about the legacy she hopes to leave and the people who shaped her experience. She also touches on her upcoming transition to Executive Director of the Addiction Prevention Coalition starting this December and the programs and podcast she’s building at her new role. Thank you to Nichole for the hard work and passion she's put into the PrevenTable podcast over the last four years!

S4 Ep 35: Medicine Meets Entrepreneurship

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Four years ago, if you asked SLU senior Kirti Madhu what’d she’d be doing in her final year of college, she’d probably say applying for medical school. But after participating in a medical entrepreneurship incubator and developing a prototype for an overdose detection device, Kirti is now tuning into her entrepreneurial mindset by tackling the opioid epidemic head-on. Listen to this week’s PrevenTable episode as she describes her venture, background in prevention and addiction medicine, and current research in providing healthcare treatment for incarcerated women.

S4 Ep 34: In the Weeds: Statewide Prevention

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This week, we’re digging into the weeds with Smithville Community in Action Executive Director Jennifer Rhoad! Jennifer talks more about how the CIA Coalition advocates for youth cannabis use prevention, describes the Keeping Kids Safe initiative, and investigates the commercialization of THC products. Anyone in Missouri can join the Smithville CIA regardless of location or prevention experience. If you’re interested in getting involved, email Jennifer at together4mo@gmail.com.

S4 Ep 33: From Pain to Purpose

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Anthony Pickens, Assistant Executive Director of Community of Hope, shares the inspiring story of how the violence he witnessed growing up led him to give back to people facing similar challenges today through the Cure Violence program. Anthony explains the backstory of his 22-year incarceration, his efforts to help others manage anger and prevent violence, and how he’s accepted his work as part of who he is.

S4 Ep 32: Transforming Teens

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0000

It’s that time of year again...tis the season for Teen Institute! Today we are joined by Ali Stambaugh and Grace DeClue, Prevention Educators and leaders of TI 2024. They share plans for this year, explain what participants can expect, and highlight the transformative power of the camp.

S4 Ep 31: In the Weeds: The Evolution of Cannabis Legalization

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Melody Quinn, Director of St. Louis CRUSH Coalition and Detective for the St. Louis County Police Department, talks resource access and distribution for those misusing cannabis and other drugs. She breaks down what cannabis legalization really means in the Missouri Constitution, details the Bosnian Opioid Project, and describes her changing approach to cannabis through its different stages of legality.

S4 Ep 30: Equitable Education

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0000

When we say Greenhouse Communication Initiative Founder Stacy Bernaugh is a really good speaker, we mean it. After finding his place in speech and debate in college, Stacy realized the critical importance of educational experiences that prepare students for the professional world. He shares with Nichole his passion for education, discusses opportunities provided by The GCI, Inc., and even touches on code switching and the loaded meaning behind some of the language used to describe a person's speech.

S4 Ep 29: In the Weeds: Assessing Adult Cannabis Use

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0000

How do substance use counselors evaluate an adult who uses cannabis to sleep at night versus a person on probation from the justice system with cannabis use disorder? The lines have become even blurrier after cannabis was legalized in Missouri, but our Director of Behavioral Health Jaidan Adams is here to explain the assessment and referral process. Jaidan emphasizes the importance of creating a comfortable environment for clients and her focus on harm reduction and promoting safer use, providing valuable insights into the evolving needs of those PreventEd serves.

S4 Ep 28: Prevention to Postvention

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Trigger warning: Suicide

Talking about suicide can be difficult, but for John Gaal and Tim Rowden, it is always worth it—one life may be the whole world to many. John, director of worker wellness for the Missouri Works Initiative returns to the PrevenTable once again, this time joined by Tim, editor of the Labor Tribune and founder of the Grief Projects. As loss survivors, John and Tim often guide people through the process of losing someone who died by suicide. They explain the importance of being direct when asking someone about their risk of suicide and touch on what’s missing from current mental healthcare.

S4 Ep 27: Safer Homes, Safer Lives

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Trigger Warning: Suicide

This week, we’re joined by Katie Ellison and Shanna Sorg from the Missouri Institute for Mental Health for a Suicide Awareness Month episode. Katie and Shanna explain the Safer Homes Collaborative, an initiative to reduce access to lethal means of suicide in homes with a specific focus on firearms. And no, they’re not trying to take your guns—with 9/10 suicide attempts using a firearm resulting in death, the duo aims to spread awareness about keeping guns unloaded, locked, and away from ammunition. Plus, they share the importance of person-first language in conversations about suicide and mental health.

S4 Ep 26: A Walk to Remember

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Katie Bixler, Director of Community Outreach Events at Faith Oakville, takes a seat at the PrevenTable to talk about the third annual Stomp Out Addiction walk coming up on October 13th. Katie discusses her background in nonprofit development and points to the welcoming environment of the walk, designed to create connection and stimulate community involvement and awareness of substance use disorder.

S4 Ep 25: Food For Thought

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0000

This week on the PrevenTable, we’re talking with the Executive Director of one of St. Louis’s most well-known nonprofits: Kristin Wild from Operation Food Search! Kristin details the story of how OFS’s founder tracked down Roger Dierberg to offer help distributing his grocery store’s leftover food and got its start as a hunger relief organization. She also explains the importance of food insecurity awareness and highlights the need to reduce stigma toward people in need.

S4 Ep 24: Breaking the Cycle

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Addie Bond, Sherwood Forest Executive Director, sits down to discuss her organization’s mission to break the cycle of poverty for kids through a balance of camp activities and evidence-based programs. As a youth-development agency anchored in a summer camp, Sherwood Forest immerses kids in nature to create separation between their school lives and camp lives. And it works—100% of leadership training graduates go on to graduate from high school! Participants learn how to try new things and fail successfully, building resiliency skills that support their growth in all aspects of life.

S4 Ep 23: In the Weeds: Behind the Campaign

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Designing a campaign about a nuanced topic like cannabis isn’t simple. But Sam Agusti-Nuernberger, Strategy Director at Magnetize Agency, thrives on purpose-driven marketing. This week on the PrevenTable, Sam takes us through several processes Magnetize conducted to create our In the Weeds Campaign, including discovery, surveying, and messaging. She also reveals the answer to one our our most popular questions: why purple instead of green?

S4 Ep 22: Barrier Breaker

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Trigger warning: This episode contains content about sexual assault, abuse, and suicide.

AJ Pickens, Executive Director at Community of Hope, shares her inspiring story of growing up as an unhoused teen mom who transformed her trauma into a full-scale organization that helps remove barriers for young mothers in St. Louis. She describes how her most painful experiences are what tied her to her greater purpose, what motivates her to build self-worth in girls, and the supportive community partnerships that make her work possible.

S4 Ep 21: In the Weeds: How do we teach about cannabis?

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0000

PreventEd Director of Education Kelly Wieser joins Nichole at the PrevenTable for a nuanced conversation on talking about cannabis with kids. She explains the importance of laying the foundation for future discussions of substance misuse, the success of consistent reinforcement, and how programs can be the difference for adolescents with a family history of substance use disorder.

S4 Ep 20: Cooking for Recovery

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0000

A delicious $135 multi-course meal with NA beverages to pair? Sounds like a deal to us! This week on the PrevenTable, Executive Chef Max Bredenkoetter delves into his idea for Temperance Kitchen, a St. Louis pop-up series designed to support restaurant workers in recovery. Max explains the prevalence of substance misuse in the hospitality industry and reveals his biggest cooking inspirations in both chefs and ingredients.

S4 Ep 19: Atypical Engineer

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0000

“Don’t just talk about it, be about it.” It’s advice that Councilwoman Shalonda Webb lives by as an elected official in District 4 of Missouri. As our guest this week on the PrevenTable, Shalonda describes the challenges of balancing politics with a full work week as a software engineer at Boeing, the stigma of being an elected official, and her work to reduce the number of alcohol outlets in her district and limit open carry for minors.

S4 Ep 18: In the Weeds: It's Complicated

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Prevention Educator Emma Wilson is joined by Kaine, a Northwest High School senior, to talk with Nichole about the It’s Complicated program. With Emma running It’s Complicated and Kaine being a trainee, the pair give the inside scoop on the benefits of joining the program, the effectiveness of peer-to-peer learning, and the nuance needed in discussions about cannabis.

S4 Ep 17: Translation to Transformation

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 13:46:19 -0000

Dawn Price, founder and CEO of The Sophia Project, Inc., sits down with Nichole this week to discuss how her life's purpose is dedicated to the transformative journey of young women. Dawn shares how the name "Sophia" has a spiritual meaning that connects with her life's purpose and how her light bulb moment evolved into what she teaches today.

S4 Ep 16: Forward Thinking

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 13:16:37 -0000

In case you haven’t heard, PreventEd is welcoming in a new Interim Executive Director next week! Get to know Jenny Armbruster on today’s episode of the #PrevenTable. Jenny shares how she got started in the prevention space and joined NCADA, the ways her and Nichole’s working partnership perfectly balances one other out, and the future of the PrevenTable podcast.

S4 Ep 15: Family Ties

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 05:52:00 -0000

Angela Roberts, Director of Business Development at Sana Lake Recovery Center, joins this week’s PrevenTable with over 15 years of experience in the substance use field. Angela talks about the link between eating disorders and substance use disorder, the Members for Life program, and centering recovery programs around the idea of family and trust.

S4 Ep 14: In the Weeds: How do I safely store my cannabis?

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 05:34:14 -0000

Our In the Weeds episode this week features Kristin Bengtson, Director of Community Services at PreventEd, and Lili Schliesser, Director of the All In Clayton Coalition. As experts in substance use prevention, they talk about the importance of decreasing accessibility of cannabis for adolescents and the function of stash bags, which allow parents to lock away their substances.

S4 Ep 13: In the Weeds: How have cannabis perceptions changed?

Wed, 29 May 2024 07:00:00 -0000

We have a triple threat of guests joining us for our In the Weeds episode this week: Courtney Hinton, Community Strategist III at PreventEd; Gerald Watson, Executive Director of Fresh Start Community Coalition; and Danyeal Crittenden of Lewis Place Coalition. With experience in substance use prevention, the trio discusses the generational differences in how cannabis is perceived, the ways that cannabis is depicted in media, and the importance of safe storage.

S4 Ep 12: Readiness for Change

Wed, 22 May 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Alcohol freedom coach Allison Barber sits down with Nichole to share more about helping people navigate their drinking habits. Allison touches on the difficulty of breaking out of an alcohol-saturated culture, describes how she talks to her family about alcohol, and explains the lifestyle changes she made as a person who no longer drinks.

S4 Ep 11: In the Weeds: How do we talk about cannabis?

Wed, 15 May 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Associate Director of GuidEd, Presley Menendez, is our second #IntheWeeds guest as we navigate through the questions surrounding cannabis and its legalization in Missouri. Presley discusses her approaches to talking with adolescents about cannabis, ways to rebuild trust between kids and parents, and touches on guiding conversations with empathy and not judgment.

S4 Ep 10: More than a Name

Wed, 08 May 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Tom Etling, President of PreventEd’s Board of Directors, sits down at the PrevenTable to talk more about his marketing expertise and time working with nonprofits. He shares how he helped PreventEd kickstart its rebrand and create the name we all know today, delves into changing misconceptions about people in need while at the St. Patrick Center, and even chats about being an Eisenhower Fellow.

S4 Ep 9: In the Weeds: Cannabis is legal in Missouri, now what?

Wed, 01 May 2024 13:42:32 -0000

Welcome to In the Weeds, where we dig up answers to big questions about cannabis following its legalization in Missouri. Our very own Stacie Zellin kicks off the podcast this week to share more about PreventEd’s efforts to dispel cannabis myths and stay up-to-date on the most recent cannabis research. She provides insights into the opportunities and challenges that cannabis legalization brings, talks about PreventEd’s ethics trainings, and describes the importance of translating complex information into a digestible form for the public.

S4 Ep 8: A Generational Difference

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 13:48:13 -0000

Huvona Watkins, Executive Director of Almost Home, is featured on the PrevenTable this week to discuss her organization’s work in assisting young moms with reaching self-sufficiency. She shares how Almost Home provides the stepping stones to end poverty two generations at a time, their goal to create a better life for children, and the different roles and responsibilities of moms that utilize their program.

S4 Ep 7: Changing the Workplace

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Ann McCauley, Missouri Director of the Rural Opioid Technical Assistance Regional Project with MU Extension, sits down with Nichole to discuss recovery friendly workplaces. Ann touches on the philosophy of putting the health and wellness of employees to the forefront of a company’s priorities, the designation process, and her efforts to shift perspectives surrounding hiring people in recovery.

S4 Ep 6: Doing the Work

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0000

The power couple of LGBTQ+ health is on the #PrevenTable this week! Ben Greene, a public speaker, advocate, and author joins us along with his wife, Samantha Levine, a medical and public health student. They share more about gender roles and norms in society, address drinking culture in LGBTQ+ spaces, and explain several social determinants of health that disproportionately impact queer folks. Plus, Ben talks about his book, "My Child is Trans, Now What?" which is coming soon!

S4 Ep 5: Connection is Universal

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Claire Wynekan and Allison Williams, former and current CEOs of the Wyman Center, join the PrevenTable to talk about their programs to empower teens to lead successful lives and build strong communities. They emphasize the importance of investing in partnerships, explain the Teen Connection Project, and describe how they have helped over 350,000 young people form meaningful connections in the community.

S4 Ep 4: Healing from Within

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s PrevenTable episode features Dr. Marty K. Casey and Renee Cunningham, Executive Director and Executive Assistant of UnGUN Institute. After both experiencing and witnessing the ways that unresolved trauma impacts people, Casey created UnGUN to help disarm trauma in individuals. The pair describe how to detect bodily signs of trauma and self preservation, highlight the power of role models, and share more about the company’s self care products that made it all the way to Los Angeles for the 2024 Oscars!

S4 Ep 3: It's All About the Brain

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Podcaster Alex Kaiser joins us to explain the motive behind starting his podcast, “No Lions Here.” He bravely shares more about his journey as a person with a substance use disorder. Alex describes his process of seeking treatment, details how he fights against the stigma of substance misuse, and takes us through his belief that freedom for him means being open about his struggles without concern for judgment from others.

S4 Ep 2: Inclusivity In Action

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This week on the PrevenTable, Beth Elders, the Executive Director of the Greater St. Louis Chapter of the American Red Cross, shares more on her journey of working in disaster relief. A PreventEd Teen Institute participant as a high schooler, Beth comments on how she truly found her place in the program, discusses her experience moving from working for the church to the Red Cross, and opens up on how she stays calm in the face of disaster.

S4 Ep 1: Creating Good Habits

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 13:58:46 -0000

The PrevenTable is back for our Season 4 premiere featuring rocker and radio host Moon Valjean and his wife, Mallory, a life coach and entrepreneur! In this episode, the pair covers the highs and lows of the rock music world, including their decision to stop drinking. They also share more about connecting with other sober people through social media, trusting the process of establishing healthy habits, and learning to appreciate their accomplishments despite obstacles.

S3 Ep 35: Feeding Your Life

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0000

Musician and songwriter Clint Lowery joins the PrevenTable for our Season 3 Finale! Known for being the lead guitarist for Sevendust and having gigs with Korn and Seether, Clint shares his experience with rock and roll culture. As a self-identifying sober person, he describes the process of making music sober, discusses generational differences in speaking about substance misuse, and shares how music and fitness keep his mind and body healthy.

S3 Ep 34: Safe Spaces

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 15:36:28 -0000

Jennifer Massie Fadler, Founder and Executive Director of Life House Youth Center, discusses her organization’s objective to provide a safe and loving space outside of the home for children to spend time. Jennifer talks about building relationships with kids, the various ways the organization serves children, and her vision for Life House to exist in communities around the U.S.

S3 Ep 33: Legacy Starts From Within

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 16:06:28 -0000

Terran Rome, Executive Vice President of Legacy Institute, sits down at the PrevenTable to describe his organization’s mission to teach kids essential skills and knowledge for navigating adulthood. Terran explains the origin of the idea, which came about during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizes the need for extracurricular alternatives beyond music and sports, and stresses how beneficial it is for people to learn about their history and identity.

S3 Ep 32: We're All In This Together

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0000

Labor recovery specialists James Pursell and Aaron Walsh join us from Lean STL to talk about their work providing resources for mental health and substance misuse for laborers. The duo describes the power of having a peer to confide in, the overlap between work and being in recovery, and the challenge of making prevention appealing to workplaces.

S3 Ep 31: Not Really the Brotherhood

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 16:47:06 -0000

TW // Sexual Harassment and Assault —

Hubbard Radio-KSHE 95 promotions coordinator Rian Gilkerson joins the podcast this week to talk about the reality check she faced during her time in the Marine Corps. Rian discusses her experience as a woman in the military, covering topics such as intimate partner violence, military ranking power dynamics, and how military members often fail to recognize substance misuse.

S3 Ep 30: Take Care of Your People

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 18:13:48 -0000

John Gaal, Joseph Whiteman, and Scott Greenhaus join us this week to discuss their knowledge of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), an issue responsible for 25% of fatalities in the construction industry. The trio shares the importance of having good coping mechanisms, improving physical and mental health, and setting new standards for wearing safety helmets.

S3 Ep 29: Essential Empowerment

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 14:30:35 -0000

Reann Hines, founder of the Behind It All Foundation, takes a seat at the PrevenTable for a conversation on promoting mental health wellness and entrepreneurship opportunities in underserved communities. She describes a few key initiatives encompassed in the foundation, talks about the role of life coaching, and explains her goal to create leaders that spread their impact both far and wide.

S3 Ep 28: Excelling in Education

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 17:25:03 -0000

Missouri Excel Centers Superintendent Dr. Eric Knost joins us for a conversation about his educational journey and current work helping adults obtain their high school diploma. He discusses how The Beatles kickstarted his passion for education, explains the necessity of providing opportunities for education for all ages, and shares insight on making a difference in students’ lives.

S3 Ep 27: DJ for Recovery

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 16:29:04 -0000

Kevin Harris joins the PrevenTable for a conversation about his journey to recovery as a former DJ, identifying himself as a functioning alcoholic — a term he and Nichole help break down. Kevin also discusses his book, “From DJ to Deacon: The Life of an Alcoholic,” praises the mentors in his life, and shares more about his current role as a harm reduction coordinator.

S3 Ep 26: Looking for Signs

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 16:38:55 -0000

Shima Rostami, Executive Director of Gateway Alliance Against Human Trafficking, talks about how her organization works to both prevent and educate people about human trafficking. She and Nichole discuss why it can be hard to detect elements of trafficking, how domestic trafficking is often not heard about, and the power behind knowledge.

S3 Ep 25: The Writers Table

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 15:44:23 -0000

Dr. Hedva Barenholtz Levy sits down at the PrevenTable to talk about her book, “Maybe It’s Your Medications.” She takes us through the process of writing and publishing the book and hits on some of its major topics, including healthy aging, medication use, being an educated consumer, and how to discuss medicine and supplements with a physician.

S3 Ep 24: Built Environment

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 13:58:44 -0000

St. Louis native Kelly McGowan joins Nichole at the PreventTable for a conversation about the importance of local politics. McGowan, the founder and executive director of Transform 314, discusses her entrance into advocacy, breaks down structural racism as an issue in St. Louis, and talks about boosting civic engagement.

S3 Ep 23: Music, Fun, and Connection

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 14:38:08 -0000

Jim Murphy, former board president of NCADA, sits down at the PrevenTable to share more about this year’s RecoveryFest STL, which he founded last year. He explains how the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for connection between people in recovery, details some of the food vendors and live music you’ll see this year, and describes how St. Louis is one of the hotbeds in the U.S. for people in long term recovery.

S3 Ep 22: Out of the Seats, Into the Streets

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 15:36:09 -0000

Brandon Boos from Faith Oakville joins us for a conversation on PreventEd’s partnership with the church and the third annual Stomp Out Addiction walk on October 1st. Brandon dives into the church’s mission to connect people, how they strive for community beyond church, and Faith’s deep roots in service.

S3 Ep 21: Staying in School

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 15:18:12 -0000

Darcy Glidewell and Clay Jenkins describe their organization, The Next Step, which aims to provide tuition assistance for people in long term recovery. They explain the story of their kitchen table idea that bloomed into $1.93 million in funding student education, comment on the way education empowers those in recovery, and share the satisfaction of witnessing the support network that develops for students through their work.

S3 Ep 20: Let's Be Real

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 14:57:22 -0000

Radio personality Donny Fandango joins the PrevenTable for a refreshing reality check about being open with your mental health and emotions. He talks about being real for the radio, provides wisdom about dealing with grief, and shares more about his philanthropic work for the Ronald McDonald House.

S3 Ep 19: Community Connection

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 15:19:47 -0000

Steve Ewing, businessman and frontman for The Urge, joins Nichole to talk about his two greatest endeavors: music and food. He describes how his restaurant, Steve’s Hot Dogs, fed nearly 10,000 people when schools closed down during the COVID-19 pandemic, shares insight into working in the music industry, and delves into his longtime passion for fitness.

S3 Ep 18: Casual Consciousness

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 14:56:15 -0000

PreventEd Process Analyst Intern Justin Boyle joins the PrevenTable to share the backstory of how he entered the prevention education space as an intern this summer. He reflects on what motivates him, describes a few community-engaged learning experiences in both his college and home community, and explains his goal of seeing basic awareness and knowledge of injustice lead to positive change.

S3 Ep 17: Everyday Advocacy

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 14:58:47 -0000

KSHE 95 Morning Show Host A.D. Rowntree joins us for a conversation on how he utilizes his radio platform to advocate for change. A.D. describes his attempts to break down mental health stigmas in a relatable way, discusses everyday management of his mental health, and talks with Nichole about the benefits of exercise and meditation.

S3 Ep 16: Public Health is Community

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 16:12:29 -0000

Alicia Jenkins from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services joins Nichole for a discussion about public health and community. She shares the extensive variety of work she does as a public servant, emphasizes the department's goal of getting Missourians access to health services from anywhere, and praises the power of digital media in dispersing public health information to large audiences.

S3 Ep 15: A Leap of Faith

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 15:15:21 -0000

Co-founder and Executive Director of Foster Together, Laura Storm, sits down to explain more about the organization, which provides essential items to foster children and families in St. Louis. She talks about her mission to restore dignity to kids, seeing foster children as more than a statistic, and how lucky she feels to have passionate volunteers.

S3 Ep 14: There's Always a Backstory

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 15:09:40 -0000

Sports radio host Anthony Stalter joins Nichole at the PrevenTable for a conversation about St. Louis’s medication bag disposal project, which Anthony currently promotes on 101 ESPN St. Louis. The pair discuss mental health and substance use in sports, the value of going to therapy, and the importance of extending empathy, not judgment, to all.

S3 Ep 13: Behind the Scenes

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 14:51:20 -0000

Former NCADD Director of Affiliate Relations Leah Brock sits down at the PrevenTable to share her experience of working for the organization for 30 years. Leah and Nichole discuss the history of NCADD, the importance of relationship building, and the balance of maintaining the integrity of their mission while still continuing to grow and evolve with the times.

S3 Ep 12: Hope and Healing

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 15:25:52 -0000

After tragically losing her best friend to an act of sexual violence, Rachel Ebeling began to grow hope from grief. On a mission to help other victims through the healing process, she started The Angel Band Project. She joins the PrevenTable alongside music therapist Tracie Sandheinrich to share more about the organization’s music therapy program, the power of peer support, and finding solace through music.

S3 Ep 11: Gene-ormous Breakthroughs

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 12:31:57 -0000

Research Assistant Professor Alexander Hatoum joins the PrevenTable to share more on his collaborative study on human genomes and substance use disorder. He talks about the heritability of substance use disorder, explains the addiction risk factor model, and even gets into a more recent development — the risk of using artificial intelligence for certain treatment methods.

S3 Ep 10: Striving for Equity

Wed, 24 May 2023 18:26:34 -0000

Ben Wood, Director of Substance Misuse and Behavioral Health Services at Williams & Associates, shares more about the organization’s mission to address health disparities in marginalized communities. Ben emphasizes the importance of promoting health equity and explains the variety of health support services Williams & Associates provides to address these types of issues.

S3 Ep 9: Movement, Momentum, Mainstream

Wed, 17 May 2023 18:15:38 -0000

Annie O'Donoghue and Laura Silverman join Nichole for the second time to discuss the alcohol-free movement that has gained SO MUCH momentum. They explain the difference between the words that float around the AF space, like zero-proof, non-alcoholic, alcohol-free, and mocktails, and why they prefer some over others.

S3 Ep 8: Life Saving Commitments

Wed, 03 May 2023 14:44:37 -0000

Brandon Anderson, Vice President of Safety at Associated General Contractors, and Ricky Reams, Vice President of Safety and Quality with Murphy Company, highlight initiatives that are addressing mental health, suicide prevention, and substance misuse in the construction industry. The pair reveal how hard discussions are saving lives and emphasize the real change that’s occurring in the field.

S3 Ep 7: Radical Love

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 12:27:50 -0000

Acting Executive Director of MONetwork, Michelle Charbonnier, has been offering harm reduction services and recovery support to community members in South City since she began volunteering in 2017. She joins Nichole to discuss the meaning of harm reduction and how resources like fentanyl test strips and syringe services programs work to keep people who use drugs alive and safe — the basic goal of reducing harm.

S3 Ep 6: Spreading the Love

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 21:03:12 -0000

When LOVEtheLOU Executive Director and Founder Lucas Rouggly moved to North St. Louis with his wife, they had a simple mission: to spread love to their neighbors. Since 2008, Lucas has brought together a team of passionate workers and hundreds of volunteers to help serve the city and restore the neighborhood of Enright. Lucas sits down at the PrevenTable to talk more about being a grassroots organization, creating future leaders, and being intentional in his mission.

S3 Ep 5: Hear Us

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 13:27:43 -0000

High schoolers Ashok and Nick and PreventEd Associate Director of Community Strategy Kristin Bengtson join the PrevenTable to talk about Hear Us, an annual advocacy event where St. Louis area high schoolers talk to Missouri state legislators about drug prevention, policy, and advocacy. They provide perspective on navigating conversations with elected officials and finding a middle ground while keeping in mind that you don’t need political power to empower.

S3 Ep 4: Making the Significant Relevant

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 19:29:50 -0000

Matt Woods, Digital Content Producer for KMOV News, discusses his documentary, “Contaminated: The Fentanyl Crisis in St. Louis”, that breaks down the causes behind the rise in fentanyl overdose deaths in the area. Matt hits on barriers to substance use disorder treatment, erasing the stigma around substance misuse from the top down, and making the significant relevant by telling the stories of real people.

S3 Ep 3: Not Your Typical Summer Camp

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 21:21:33 -0000

Prevention Educator Joy Carter sits down with Nichole to talk about all things Teen Institute along with former participant and intern, Jess Kagan. The pair provide insight into what Teen Institute REALLY is — four days and three nights of fun, combined with small group activities, team building, and leadership exercises that equip high schoolers for preventing substance misuse among their peers.

S3 Ep 2: The Greatest Gift of Recovery

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 21:36:54 -0000

Andy Bowman and Jennie Payne, PreventEd’s newest peer specialists in the Lincoln County office, join us to discuss how they guide people in recovery through lived experience. They share wisdom on setting boundaries as a peer, how recovery is a conscious choice every day, and dive into launching the Lincoln County program.

S3 Ep 1: Anomaly in Comedy

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 22:11:55 -0000

Rafe Williams, local stand-up comedian, sketch comedian, improv-er, and radio personality, sits down with Annie to discuss the healing power of comedy and how it relates to mental health and his sobriety.

Yoga of 12 Step Recovery

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Amber Campbell, Yoga Teacher and PreventEd staff person, joins the PrevenTable to talk about the role yoga has played in her life, her journey in recovery, and how the Yoga of 12 Step Recovery (Y12SR) brought the two together.

Correlation, Not Causation

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Huvona Watkins and Nora Mosby from the Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence join the PrevenTable to talk about the relationship between domestic and sexual violence and substance use, their root causes, and the power of prevention.

Behind the Scenes

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Lisa Carter, Co-Director at Mid-America ATTC, and Sherrie Watkins, Technology Transfer Specialist at Opioid Response Network, join the PrevenTable to talk about the importance of supporting service providers, upstream and downstream solutions, the resurgence of stimulants, and the power of knowledge.

Selling Hope for Free

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -0000

What happens to a child when their parent is incarcerated? The idea for 4 Walls & Beyond came to Lisa Porter, Founder & CEO, 18 years ago when she was incarcerated in Vandalia Women's Prison. She discusses the challenges of parenting behind bars and how her organization helps strengthen the parent-child relationship. Lisa is joined by Otis Lumpkin, Chief Financial Officer, whose lived experience drew him to the mission.

Freedom on the Other Side of the Storm

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 14:43:33 -0000

Charlie Backer sits down to discuss sobriety, hot sauce, vulnerabilities and his book, The Sober Impact. He shares how sobriety has shaped him into the man he is today; how he shares his experience and pitfalls with his two kids; and how people, just like ogres, have layers.

Knock and Go In

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Therapeutic Consultant, Dr. Russell Hyken, discusses how he navigates teens and their families through residential treatment and beyond. He explains how his time as a high school principal led him to his current role working within family systems. . . including his own.

Hold On Pain Ends

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 06:00:00 -0000

What do the construction industry and suicide have in common? Unfortunately, a lot. The suicide rate in the construction industry is 3-5x times higher than the national average. Bo Cooper, Alberici Safety Director, and Brandon Anderson, Vice President of Safety with the Association of General Contractors stop by to discuss this and how they are tackling it head-on because everyone needs some HOPE in their lives.

How Can I End This With Me?

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Mom, teacher, and author, Jessica Lahey reveals the motivation behind her best-selling book, The Addiction Inoculation. She talks brain science, middle schoolers, and how being open and honest about her own sobriety keeps her accountable.

Banking on Community

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 12:30:34 -0000

For almost 15 years, Stacy Clay was an advocate and leader in St. Louis Public Schools, and worked to develop comprehensive Student Support Services. When he stepped into a new role at First Bank, his fresh perspective as a non-banker and his understanding of community issues proved invaluable in furthering First Bank’s local emphasis. Stacy talks about the importance of relationships in banking, education, and community, and how technology serves as an important conduit for connection as the landscape and ways we communicate change.

Duty of Care

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Chris Becker, founder of Better Rhodes, reveals what drove him to create this lifestyle brand that curates alcohol-free offerings and develops community. Listen as Chris discusses the debate and nuance surrounding NA products with a critical understanding.

The Future of Hospitality is Inclusivity

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Founder of Zero Proof Nation, Laura Silverman, describes how she elevates non-alcoholic options and connects people across the sobriety spectrum and across the country. Laura is a booze-free babe in many realms: "soberoke" (sober karaoke), roller derby, and Canva. Check out her new podcast, By Volume!

Not a Moment, But a Movement

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 14:33:00 -0000

Chris Marshall, founder of Sans Bar, joins the PrevenTable to discuss its evolution from SXSW to its second national tour in just a few short years. He talks building community, being a Black man in the AF space, and teaching others through Sans Bar Academy.

Coming in Hot

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Ever wonder how PreventEd decides what, how, and if to comment on issues? Stacie Zellin of PreventEd describes the animation, enthusiasm, and spirited dialogue that goes on behind the scenes when a "hot topic" surfaces. Listen in real-time as the subject of "cannamoms" surfaces and hear how she and Nichole weigh whether or not we should "say something." And if yes, then what?

Andy Cohen. . . Are You Listening?

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Heirloom Bottling Co. Founder, Brad Zulick, details his journey from academia to craft cocktail entrepreneur. An early Sans Bar supporter, Brad explains "shrubs" and emphasizes the need for good NA alternatives.

A Fresh Start

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Community coalition leader Gerald Watson stops by the PrevenTable to reflect on "mega" status, misconceptions about Black fathers, and life after active addiction.

Close to Home Pt. 2

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 08:00:00 -0000

The conversation was so good, it had to continue. Ryan and Kenajo discuss what a recovery-friendly workplace really looks like, the impact of trauma, and making amends.

It is Never a Survivor’s Fault

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 16:17:27 -0000

Interim CEO of Safe Connections, Cynthia, stops by the PrevenTable to answer questions about domestic violence and sexual assault like, “Can men be victims of abuse?” and “Why doesn’t she just leave?” She also busts myths about the role alcohol does, or doesn’t, play in issues of consent.

Baden and Beyond

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Cal and Djuna reminisce at this PrevenTable about the conversation several years ago around their kitchen table that led to the creation of Living With Purpose, their nonprofit that supports people with intellectual disabilities, mental health challenges, and substance use disorders. They provide insight on their positive workplace culture (dogs and kids!) and reveal what they have in store over the next 5 years.

Not Out for the Clout

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Hear what motivated mom of 2, Shavanna Spratt, to pivot from survival mode to community activist as host of “Da Hood Talks” podcast. She and Nichole talk about elevating urban voices, podcast swag, and why sometimes you just have to shut up.

What's in a Name?

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 06:35:11 -0000

Listen as the newly-married Dr. Kanika Cunningham details why the inclusion of addiction medicine into the primary care setting is a necessary step forward in addressing substance use disorders, particularly in the Black community.

It's All About People

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Pickleball and hiking and CrossFit. . . oh my! Listen as Jim Murphy stops by the PrevenTable to wax poetic about the good ol’ days and to talk about his latest endeavor to support individuals in long-term recovery.

Attention v. Intention

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Suicide prevention expert, Elizabeth Makulec, takes a seat at the PrevenTable to talk about the power of teens, the importance of asking for help, and her desire to retire early.

Just an Asterisk

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 06:00:00 -0000

How do you help formerly incarcerated people re-enter society? And actually succeed? Hint: it has a lot to do with boredom. Listen as Nichole discusses these topics and more with fellow political theory nerd, Clark Porter.

The Popcorn Keeper

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 20:10:00 -0000

5th grader, Virginia and 3rd grader, Violet join Nichole to talk about the importance of sharing and being a good friend. And they ask the question, “What the heck does it mean to be a grown-up anyway?”

Sans Bar STL

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 06:10:00 -0000

Nichole is joined by Annie, the mastermind behind Sans Bar STL, St. Louis's first zero-proof pop-up (and to date, the largest Sans Bar in history!) Learn more about the AF life and what's next for Sans Bar STL.

100 lb Sack of Potatoes

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 14:10:00 -0000

Nichole sits down with her guest, John, and discusses cabinets, construction, opioid use disorder and the loss no parent should have to go through. Hear how he worked with medical professionals at Washington University in St. Louis to reduce stigma, create change, and to ultimately have people listen to what he was saying.

What Are You?

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 06:15:00 -0000

Poli “sassy pants” Rijos returns to the PrevenTable for a conversation about colorism, teaching tolerance to kids, and checking privilege. Geriatric pregnancy? Nah, 40 is the new 20.

Mob Doctor

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 06:20:00 -0000

What’s it like to have a parent who has a substance use disorder? Listen as PrevenTable guest Poli Rijos describes her dad’s journey into long-time recovery.

If You Don’t See It, Produce It

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 06:15:00 -0000

Take a seat at the PrevenTable with Nichole and her guest Christia DeShields. They dish about the absurdity of “Mommy Wine Culture” and why advocating for your children is the purest expression of motherhood.

Therapy Slaps

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 06:10:00 -0000

Nichole welcomes teens Annemarie and Tom back to the PrevenTable to weigh in on social norms, self-care, and “checking-in” on your friends. Don’t be surprised when they starting quoting Freud.

Kids These Days

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 06:05:00 -0000

Teens get a bad rap. On this inaugural episode of the PrevenTable, Nichole Dawsey talks with two “normal” teens, Annemarie and Tom, about what teens are really doing these days. And the answers may surprise you.