Description

In this episode of the "Just Say Something" podcast, host and Executive Director Philip Clark interviews Stacey Ashmore, part of the Just Say Something team and an expert in tobacco and vaping education and prevention programs. With over 20 years of experience, Stacey has been actively involved in delivering presentations and classes to schools and communities, raising awareness about the dangers of tobacco and e-cigarettes. Stacey is passionate about educating children and parents on the physical and mental health risks associated with tobacco and nicotine use, and strives to empower young people to make informed decisions about their health.

Phillip and Stacey discuss the impact of tobacco and nicotine addiction, particularly in schools and communities. Stacey shares insights into the organization's programs, which target middle and high schools, and parenting educational classes. The programs aim to educate students and parents about the dangers of e-cigarettes and vaping and the long-term health consequences of tobacco use. Stacey explains to Phillip, “There are over 4000 chemicals in a cigarette... and how many people die from smoking every year? Currently, it is around 400,000 and it's trending up to 500,000.”

Stacey continues to emphasize the importance of raising awareness and providing education to prevent tobacco-related illnesses and deaths. He explains to Phillip, “That's why it is so important that you talk with your children, and we go out and continue to do the education in the schools. I do not care if it is elementary to high school, to let these kids know that they are valuable, they are our future, and they deserve to live a long, healthy life.”

Finally, Stacey also highlights the organization's interactive educational tools, such as pig lungs, Mr. Gross mouth, and tar samples, which help illustrate the damage caused by tobacco and nicotine.

Key Takeaways:

• Tobacco addiction is primarily caused by the nicotine found in cigarettes, making it important to educate individuals about the addictive nature of tobacco.
• Just Say Something's tobacco and vaping education programs target middle schools and high schools, as well as parents, to raise awareness about the dangers of e-cigarettes and vaping.
• The organization's presentations cover a wide range of topics, including the physical and mental health effects of tobacco and e-cigarette use and the damage it can cause to various organs in the body.

For more information, please visit us at www.justsaysomethingsc.org or give us a call at (864)467-4099.

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