Shows
Coffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseSROs in Action: How Officers Support Students Every DaySeason 3, Episode 9 | SROs in Action: How Officers Support Students Every DayIn this episode of Coffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance Misuse, hosts Reyna and Georgia sit down with two dedicated School Resource Officers — Officer Lily Paine from the Fairmont Police Department and Deputy Chris Gerhardt from the Martin County Sheriff’s Office — to talk about their work inside local schools and the relationships they build with students every day.Together, we explore what the role of a School Resource Officer really looks like — from a typical day on campus to the most rewarding parts of the job — and hear how Officer Pa...
2026-05-1636 min
FreightWaves LIVE: An Events Podcast12 Months Later: A Report Card on Trump’s Trucking Executive OrderIn this FreightWaves Special Report, FreightWaves contributor Rob Carpenter sits down with FMCSA Administrator Derek Barrs to discuss the state of the trucking industry exactly 12 months after President Trump's executive order.Administrator Barrs provides a candid "report card" on the agency's progress, emphasizing that while they have seen successes, there is still a lot of work left to do to achieve sustainable, long-term growth. The two discuss the FMCSA's commitment to rooting out "bad actors" to elevate the trucking profession, the realities of the government rulemaking process, and the ultimate goal of the agency: reducing fatalities and making...
2026-05-0425 min
FreightCasts12 Months Later: A Report Card on Trump’s Trucking Executive OrderIn this FreightWaves Special Report, FreightWaves contributor Rob Carpenter sits down with FMCSA Administrator Derek Barrs to discuss the state of the trucking industry exactly 12 months after President Trump's executive order.Administrator Barrs provides a candid "report card" on the agency's progress, emphasizing that while they have seen successes, there is still a lot of work left to do to achieve sustainable, long-term growth. The two discuss the FMCSA's commitment to rooting out "bad actors" to elevate the trucking profession, the realities of the government rulemaking process, and the ultimate goal of the agency: reducing fatalities and making...
2026-05-0425 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseThe Power of Mentorship: Kinship of Martin CountySeason 3, Episode 8 | The Power of Mentorship: Kinship of Martin CountyIn this episode of Coffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance Misuse, we’re joined by Katy, Courtney, and Jen from Kinship of Martin County to talk about the powerful role mentorship plays in the lives of local youth. Kinship connects young people with caring, consistent adult mentors who provide guidance, encouragement, and friendship. In this episode, we explore what makes the Kinship program so impactful, the goals they’re working toward, and how mentorship creates lasting, positive change for youth in our community.We also dive into how mentors are matched and...
2026-04-1825 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseLeading the Change: Youth in PreventionSeason 3, Episode 7 | Leading the Change: Youth in PreventionIn this episode of Coffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance Misuse, we sit down with Heather Schjenken—Senior Youth Trainer at The Montana Institute and Executive Director of Youth for Christ in Itasca County—for a powerful conversation about youth leadership, prevention, and the impact of positive community change.With more than 20 years of experience as a teacher, coach, ministry leader, and prevention advocate, Heather shares how the Positive Community Norms approach and the Science of the Positive are transforming schools and communities. From helping reduce underage drinking in Deer River by 50% to trai...
2026-03-3028 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseThe Unsung Heroes of Coffee & ClaritySeason 3, Episode 5 | The Unsung Heroes of Coffee & ClarityIn this special behind-the-scenes episode of Coffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance Misuse, we’re shining the spotlight on the people who make the podcast possible — our amazing student editors.From polishing audio and video to adding music, smoothing transitions, and getting episodes uploaded, their work is behind every episode you hear. We sit down with the editing team to learn how they got involved, what the editing process really looks like, the skills they’ve gained, and their advice for anyone interested in media or creative work.This episode offers a whole new ap...
2026-03-3011 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseHealthy Choices at Every Stage: High School, College & BeyondSeason 3, Ep. 4 | Healthy Choices at Every Stage: High School, College & BeyondIn this episode, hosts Michelle and Reyna sit down with Dr. Jason Kilmer, professor at the University of Washington and nationally recognized leader in college substance use prevention. With decades of experience working with college students across the country, Dr. Kilmer brings a powerful perspective on the challenges, opportunities, and evidence-based strategies that help students make healthy choices.Together, we explore the similarities and differences between prevention work in K–12 settings and the approaches used on college campuses. Dr. Kilmer breaks down the pressures college students face around alcohol, ca...
2026-03-3023 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseOpioid Settlement Funds Part Two: TreatmentSeason 3, Ep. 3 | Opioid Settlement Funds Part Two: Treatment & RecoveryIn this episode, hosts Natalie and Tim continue the conversation on opioid settlement funds—this time focusing on treatment and recovery efforts happening right here in Martin and Faribault Counties.Building off Part One’s discussion on prevention and funding allocation, this episode shifts toward what treatment actually looks like in a rural community. Our guests, Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors Andrea Neilson and Rich Odom, share their firsthand experiences working with individuals navigating opioid use disorder and other substance use challenges. They talk about what services currently exist, what gaps rema...
2026-03-3021 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseBecoming Phone-Free: GHEC’s Steps Toward Student Well-BeingSeason 3, Episode 6 | Becoming Phone-Free: GHEC’s Steps Toward Student Well-BeingIn this episode of Coffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance Misuse, Empower students Georgia and Isaac sit down with GHEC Principal Mr. Andy Walden to talk about student mental health, screen time, and what it means to help kids grow up healthy in today’s digital world.GHEC recently conducted a book study on The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt, bringing together school leaders and community members to examine how smartphones and social media are shaping this generation. We discuss what they’ve learned, why it matter...
2026-03-3020 min
Trucksafe LIVE!Ep. 54 - Understanding MCSAP FundingIn this episode, we tackle the Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program (MCSAP) in the wake of FMCSA's October 15, 2025, announcement withholding over $40 million in funding from California for failing to enforce federal English Language Proficiency (ELP) standards for commercial drivers. Special guest Jack Van Steenburg, former FMCSA Chief Safety Officer and Assistant Administrator, joins us to break down what MCSAP is, how it funds state-level roadside inspections, safety audits, and enforcement efforts, and why California's non-compliance has led to this unprecedented action. We'll also discuss the broader implications for highway safety, trucking companies operating in California, and potential ripple effects...
2025-11-0359 min
Trucksafe LIVE!Ep. 54 - Understanding MCSAP FundingIn this episode, we tackle the Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program (MCSAP) in the wake of FMCSA's October 15, 2025, announcement withholding over $40 million in funding from California for failing to enforce federal English Language Proficiency (ELP) standards for commercial drivers. Special guest Jack Van Steenburg, former FMCSA Chief Safety Officer and Assistant Administrator, joins us to break down what MCSAP is, how it funds state-level roadside inspections, safety audits, and enforcement efforts, and why California's non-compliance has led to this unprecedented action. We'll also discuss the broader implications for highway safety, trucking companies operating in California, and potential ripple effects...
2025-10-231h 00Coffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseOpioid Settlement Funds Part One: PreventionSeason 3, Ep. 2 | Opioid Settlement Funds Part One: PreventionIn this episode, hosts Sophie and Reyna sit down with Shelly Larsen, Project Coordinator for Empower Coalition, and Caroline McCourt, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator/ Community Health Planner, to discuss how Martin and Faribault Counties are using opioid settlement funds to address prevention and recovery.Shelly shares about the coalition’s ongoing initiatives, including Narcan training and the “Lock It Up” campaign, while Caroline walks us through how the settlement funds were distributed to ensure long-term impact across both counties. Together, they explore what’s being done locally to tackle opioid use disorder, the partners...
2025-10-2239 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseServant Leadership & School Culture: Inspiring Healthy Choices at FairmontSeason 3, Ep. 1 | Servant Leadership & School Culture: Inspiring Healthy Choices at FairmontIn this episode, we’re joined by Mr. Chad Brusky, principal of Fairmont Jr./Sr. High School, and Mr. Brian Wille, Servant Leadership and Social Studies teacher at Fairmont. Together, they share how the school is cultivating a positive culture where students are encouraged to lead, serve, and make healthy choices.From Cardinal Community Days to the advisory program and Servant Leadership class, these initiatives are shaping student experiences, strengthening mental health, and empowering young people to contribute meaningfully to their community. We dive into how service projects, mentorship op...
2025-09-2034 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseBe Extraordinary, Be You: Navigating Substance Misuse and Self AcceptanceSeason 2, Ep. 9 | Be Extraordinary, Be You: Navigating Substance Misuse and Self AcceptanceIn this powerful episode, we're joined by Randy and Heather Bacchus, founders of Be Extraordinary, Be You!—a nonprofit dedicated to educating families on the dangers of high-potency THC and supporting those facing mental health and substance use struggles.After losing their 21-year-old son Randy to cannabis-induced psychosis and suicide, the Bacchuses turned their unimaginable grief into purpose. In this heartfelt conversation, they share Randy’s story, the advocacy work behind Randy’s Resolution, and how his vlogging journey became a tool for prevention and healing. We dive into q...
2025-06-0343 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseTobacco's Hidden Costs: Environmental Impacts RevealedSeason 2, Ep. 8 | Tobacco's Hidden Costs: Environmental Impacts RevealedIn this episode, we're chatting with Molly Schmidtke from the Association for Nonsmokers - Minnesota. With her background in public health, Molly offers a powerful perspective on a lesser-known issue: how commercial tobacco products harm our environment.Together, we explore key questions around the environmental impact of tobacco—from pollution caused by cigarette waste to harmful industry practices and the role flavored products play in environmental damage. This episode is full of practical steps youth, individuals, and communities can take to raise awareness and reduce environmental harm caused by tobacco. If you're pa...
2025-05-0721 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseClinical Insights: Addressing Youth Mental Health & Substance Use ChallengesSeason 2, Ep. 7 | Clinical Insights: Addressing Youth Mental Health & Substance Use ChallengesIn this episode of Coffee and Clarity, host Sophie Streit sits down with Siri Kabrick, APRN CNP, a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at the Mayo Clinic, to discuss the intersection of youth mental health and substance use. Siri shares her expertise on the unique mental health challenges that young people face today, including anxiety, depression, and how substance use often plays a role.Throughout the episode, Siri offers valuable insights on how to recognize mental health struggles in youth, strategies for coping with stress without turning to substances, and...
2025-03-2524 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisusePathways to Recovery: Inside Treatment CourtSeason 2, Ep. 6 | Pathways to Recovery: Inside Treatment CourtIn this episode, hosts Hannah Gries and Sophie Streit talk with Tracy Henning, Treatment Court Coordinator, and Andrea Nielsen, LADC at Fountain Centers, about how treatment courts help people overcome addiction.They explain how treatment court works, the role of addiction treatment providers, and why personalized recovery plans matter. They also tackle common myths about addiction and share success stories of people turning their lives around.Listen now on your favorite platform:YouTube: https://bit.ly/CoffeeandClarityYoutubeApple: https://bit.ly/CoffeeandClarityAppleiHeartRadio: https://bit.ly/CoffeeandClarityiHeartAudible: https://bit.ly/AudibleCoffeeandClarityAmazon: https://bit.ly...
2025-02-1717 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseJohnny's Ambassadors: Tackling Dabbing and THC MisconceptionsSeason 2, Ep. 4 | Johnny's Ambassadors: Tackling Dabbing and THC Misconceptions
In this episode, host Trista Boesch sits down with Laura Stack, founder of Johnny's Ambassadors, to discuss the dangers of high-potency marijuana products, the mental health impact of THC on young brains, and how her organization is working to prevent youth substance misuse.
Laura shares Johnny's story, from his journey with marijuana to the tragic impact it had on his life, which inspired her to create Johnny's Ambassadors. She highlights the risks of dabbing, the importance of early education, and the values driving her work: altruism, patience, conviction, enthusiasm, and...
2025-01-2424 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseNavigating Trauma: Insights into Care, Healing, and Substance UseSeason 2, Ep. 4 | Navigating Trauma: Insights into Care, Healing, and Substance Use
In this episode, hosts Trista Boesch and Megan Wheeler sit down with Caroline McCourt, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator and Community Health Planner, and Molly, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, to discuss the importance of trauma-informed practices and therapy services.
We explore what trauma-informed care means, how it’s being used in our community, and where it’s needed most. Molly shares how therapy can help individuals heal from trauma and discusses the connections between trauma and substance use. Caroline highlights the role of trauma-informed practices in community health and emer...
2024-12-2131 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseEmpowering Communities: The Impact of Celebrating FamiliesSeason 2, Ep. 3 | Empowering Communities: The Impact of Celebrating Families
In this November episode of Coffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance Misuse, hosts Michelle Esquivel and Lila Dorschner sit down with Tracy Henning, Treatment Court Coordinator, and Amy Becker, School Social Worker at Fairmont Elementary, to discuss the impactful Celebrating Families program that will be returning to our community next year. Tracy and Amy, the coordinators of this program, share how it supports families affected by substance misuse, creating connections, resilience, and healthy communication skills.
They dive into how Celebrating Families empowers parents and children alike, providing tools to heal from...
2024-11-1628 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseThe Winning Edge: Teen Fitness, Substance Use, and Performance OptimizationSeason 2, Ep. 2 | The Winning Edge: Teen Fitness, Substance Use, and Performance Optimization
In this episode of Coffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance Misuse, hosts Grant Koehnen and Landen Pederson sit down with Josie Sodersten, weightlifting coach at Fairmont High School, and Alex Schliesmann, co-owner of Live Fit Sport & Wellness Center, to discuss the critical connection between substance use and sports performance in teenagers. With years of experience coaching young athletes, Josie and Alex offer insights on how substance use can impact endurance, strength, mental clarity, and overall athletic potential.
They also share practical advice for teens looking to maximize their...
2024-10-2333 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseSobriety and Support: Inside Tim Murray's Vision for Bravo Zulu HouseSeason 2 Ep. 1 | Sobriety and Support: Inside Tim Murray's Vision for Bravo Zulu House
In this episode of Coffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance Misuse, host Michelle Esquivel sits down with Tim Murray, Executive Director of Bravo Zulu House, to discuss his personal journey from battling addiction to founding Trinity Sober Homes and launching Bravo Zulu House in Martin County, Minnesota. As the first all-military sober home in the U.S. focused on helping veterans with both PTSD and Substance Use Disorder (SUD), Bravo Zulu House is taking a groundbreaking approach to recovery. Tim shares his inspiring story, the mission behind...
2024-09-2437 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseBreaking the Cycle: A Spotlight on Prevention and RecoverySeason 1 Ep. 9 | Breaking the Cycle: A Spotlight on Prevention and Recovery
Join hosts Lila Dorschner and Ava Winter along with special guests Nathan Wray and Cole Sharp as they delve into the crucial topics of substance abuse prevention and recovery. Nathan Wray, a motivational speaker and prevention coordinator from Tennessee, brings 20 years of sobriety and a wealth of experience in substance abuse prevention. Cole Sharp, a peer recovery support specialist with Beyond Brink/WEcovery, shares his journey of long-term recovery and the significant role of peer support in overcoming addiction.
Gain valuable insights into the importance of prevention, especially...
2024-05-2247 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseProtecting our Youth: Shedding Light on Martin County's Social Host Ordinance
Season 1 Ep. 8 | Safeguarding our Youth: Exploring Martin County's Social Host Ordinance. Join hosts Grant Koehnen and special guest Taylor McGowan, Martin County Attorney, as they talk about the topic of youth safety and substance misuse prevention. Gain valuable knowledge about the purpose and implementation of Martin County's Social Host Ordinance, designed to protect our youth from the dangers of substance misuse. Discover the legal framework, enforcement procedures, community response, and success stories associated with this ordinance.
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2024-04-2933 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseFentanyl: First Responder InsightsUncover the realities of fentanyl with our latest episode! Join hosts Gabriella Thoeny and Michelle Esquivel alongside guests Matt Lange from Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service and James Tietje from the Martin County Sheriff's Office as they provide insights into the challenges faced by first responders dealing with fentanyl emergencies. Gain a deeper understanding of the risks involved and the measures taken to ensure community safety in "Fentanyl: First Responder Insights."
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2024-03-1626 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseSmoke Signals: Unmasking Deceptive Marketing Aimed at Minnesota's YouthGet ready to uncover the truth! Join host Meredith Miller and special guest Pat McKone from the American Lung Association as they delve deep into the deceptive strategies used by the tobacco and vaping industries to target our youth. This episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable steps to protect our community from the harmful effects of tobacco and vaping marketing.
*Disclaimer: Please note that due to intermittent internet issues, there may be slight instances of overlap within this episode.*
Listen now on your preferred platform:
Youtube: https://bit.ly/CoffeeandClarityYoutube
Apple: https://bit.ly/CoffeeandClarityApple
iHeartRadio: https...
2024-02-1734 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseTeen Talk: Navigating Marijuana Myths and RealitiesJoin us for an eye-opening journey in our latest podcast episode, 'Teen Talk: Navigating Marijuana Myths and Realities.' Hosted by the amazing Trista Boesch and featuring the insights of special guest Ken Winters, Ph.D., this episode is your ticket to unraveling the truth behind marijuana misconceptions. Whether you're a teen seeking facts, a parent wanting to understand, or just looking for an engaging conversation, we've got you covered. Tune in as we explore the realities and break down the myths surrounding marijuana. Like, subscribe, and share to keep the conversation alive!
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2024-01-2024 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseSafe Celebrations: Holiday and Alcohol SafetyJoin us in this special holiday episode as we sit down with Regional Towards Zero Deaths Coordinator, Annette Larson and Martin County Sherriff's Deputy, Luis Figueroa to discuss the importance of responsible alcohol consumption during the festive season. From strategies to stay safe at holiday gatherings to understanding the risks associated with alcohol, this podcast provides valuable insights and tips to ensure you have a joyful and safe holiday season. Don't miss this engaging conversation with two experts in the field of keeping our roads safe.
Like, subscribe, share, and turn on post notifications as we learn about the...
2024-01-1021 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseClearing the Air: Combatting Vaping and Tobacco Use
On our third episode of the podcast, we delve into the topic of vaping and tobacco use. Meet our guests- Roy Kammer, an accomplished professor with expertise in alcohol and drug studies, and Kaley Hernandez, the SHIP Coordinator at Human Services of Faribault & Martin Counties. Alongside them, we are joined by Ava and Lila; inquiring from the perspective of youth. Roy and Kaley share valuable perspectives on the latest trends, challenges, and strategies in addressing vaping and tobacco use. Stay tuned to gain a deeper understanding of this pressing public health concern, explore effective prevention measures, and discover resources...
2023-12-1339 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseRecognizing Opioid Addiction: Science, Supports, and SolutionsIn our October episode, we delve into the complex landscape of opioid addiction. Join us for a deep dive into the science, support systems, and practical solutions with our knowledgeable guests, Dr. Tim Slama and Samantha Farnum C-FNP. Hosted by Emily Wheeler and Abbie Booth, this episode offers invaluable insights into opioid addiction recognition and management. Tune in to expand your understanding of this pressing issue and explore the pathways to recovery and support.
Be sure to turn on post notifications so you don't miss our next episode, "Clearing the Air: Combatting Vaping and Tobacco Use." We post on...
2023-11-1017 minCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseNavigating the Intersection: Suicide Prevention, Substance Use, and Student Well-BeingIn this insightful episode, hosts Jazzleene Lopez and Gabriella Thoeny guide us through the complex landscape of student well-being, focusing on the critical intersection of suicide prevention and substance use. Joined by expert guests, they explore the interplay between these challenges and share strategies for early intervention, support, and destigmatizing student outreach. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the issues impacting young individuals and discover the collective efforts aimed at creating safer, more supportive communities.
Be sure to turn your post notifications on so you don't miss our next few episodes. Here is a sneak peek of...
2023-11-0914 min
Coffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance MisuseCoffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance Misuse PilotWelcome to the pilot episode of 'Coffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance Misuse'! Join our hosts, members of Martin County Empower, as they set the stage for an engaging and educational podcast journey. In this debut episode, Emily and Abbigale share their passion for promoting healthy choices and preventing substance misuse. They discuss the purpose and goals of their podcast, which is to empower listeners with knowledge, insights, and stories that inspire a substance-free life. Get ready to sip on a cup of wisdom and gain the clarity you need to make informed decisions. Subscribe now to stay informed, stay...
2023-11-0902 min