In this inspiring episode of the Pathways to Prevention podcast, host Dave Closson sits down with Ariel Cohn, a dedicated Young Professionals Advisory Board member at the Drug Free America Foundation and prevention supervisor with DCCCA, a nonprofit in Kansas. Ariel shares her journey from a high school student curious about public health to a dynamic leader in youth substance use prevention and mental health promotion.

Together, they discuss the importance of youth empowerment, how today’s young people are shaping prevention strategies, and the innovative programs Ariel leads to foster healthier communities.

Join us in this insightful episode to learn how Ariel Cohn and her team are shaping the future of prevention, one young leader at a time. Together, let’s empower the next generation to create a world free from substance use and mental health stigma.

Listen here

What you’ll learn in this episode:

  • Ariel’s unique path into the field of prevention and her role at DCCCA.
  • How the Youth Empowerment and Prevention (YEP) program supports middle and high school students as leaders and role models in substance use prevention and mental health awareness.
  • The role of the Young Professionals Advisory Board (YPAB) and how young adults are using their voices to influence prevention efforts and bridge gaps in community health. Learn more about the YPAB and apply here. Follow YPAB’s Instagram, NextBestGen_DFAF here!
  • Insights into Sources of Strength, a youth-led suicide prevention initiative that emphasizes resilience and protective factors.
  • Creative approaches to engage youth in meaningful discussions about mental health, substance use, and healthy relationships.
  • The impact of social media and youth-led campaigns on shaping peer perceptions around prevention and mental wellness.
  • How adults and prevention professionals can empower youth to become proactive leaders in their own communities.

Key takeaways:

  • The power of prevention lies in its proactive approach and the role of young people in shaping a drug-free future.
  • Empowering youth to lead prevention efforts creates sustainable, impactful change in communities.
  • Connecting with youth through genuine listening, creativity, and innovative programs can spark lasting engagement in prevention advocacy.