Description

In this episode of the Prevention Leaders Podcast, host Dave Closson sits down with Jake White, the mastermind behind Vive 18, a national movement that’s redefining what it means to have fun—without drugs or alcohol. Jake shares his inspiring journey from losing a family member to addiction, to throwing massive sober house parties on college campuses, and ultimately creating a youth-led drug prevention movement across the country.

Discover how Jake challenged the status quo, built social proof to shift college culture, and ignited a nationwide movement where prevention is fun, engaging, and community-driven. Whether you're a coalition leader, educator, or prevention advocate, you’ll walk away with actionable strategies on how to start a sober movement in your own community.

Key Takeaways:

• How Jake White started throwing drug-free house parties that attracted hundreds of students.
• The importance of social proof in challenging perceived social norms around substance use.
• Strategies to engage youth in prevention efforts and build sustainable drug-free communities.
• Practical steps for starting a youth drug prevention club that promotes mental health and resilience.
• Why making prevention fun is key to long-term impact.

Memorable Quotes:

• “It’s not about changing the culture—it’s about bringing light to a culture that already exists.” – Jake White
• “Students want to belong. They just need to know they can have fun without sacrificing their health or future.” – Jake White

Episode Links:

• Vive18.com 

• https://www.facebook.com/thevive18/ 

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakewhitespeaks/ 

• https://www.instagram.com/vive18_/?hl=en 

• https://www.youtube.com/@vive18 

Links:

• www.daveclosson.com

• www.preventionmastery.com 

• https://www.daveclosson.com/social-media-links