Shows
Safe Yakima Prevention ConnectionAnnaka’s Story: Confidence, Connection, and the Power of Youth Voice in PreventionIn this episode of the Safe Yakima Prevention Connection, our host Marisol Esparza talks with Annaka, a senior at Eisenhower High School and Vice President of Spark Club. Annaka shares how staying involved in school, sports, and prevention work has helped her build confidence, avoid peer pressure, and grow as a leader. She highlights how Spark Club creates a supportive, substance-free environment through outreach, education, and student-led advocacy. The conversation covers what motivates students to get involved, how to make prevention more appealing, and the vital role adults play in supporting youth. Whether you're a student, educator, or community...2025-07-2227 minSafe Yakima Prevention ConnectionTreating the Whole Spectrum: Addiction, Harm Reduction, and Hope with Dr. Gillian ZuckermanIn this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Julian Zuckerman, Director of Addictions at Comprehensive Healthcare. Dr. Zuckerman shares her personal journey and offers a deeply informed look at addiction myths, stigma, and the full continuum of care — from prevention to harm reduction to treatment.
2025-07-0828 minSafe Yakima Prevention ConnectionPrevention Through Connection: How Community Members Can Make A Difference Through MentorshipIn this episode of Safe Yakima Prevention Connection, we’re joined by Liz Walsh and Haley Adkison, mentoring coordinators at Safe Yakima Valley. We dive into how mentoring at the ground level empowers local youth, prevents substance use, and strengthens our community. Learn what mentoring is (and isn’t), hear success stories from Yakima County schools, and discover how you can get involved in this life-changing work. Whether you’re a parent, community member, or just want to make a difference, this episode shows you how to start.
2025-06-2431 minSafe Yakima Prevention ConnectionBridging Mental Health and Safety in Yakima with Jon SchwarderIn this episode of the Safe Yakima Prevention Connection Podcast, we explore the vital connection between mental health and community safety. Deputy Chief Jon Schwarder from the Toppenish Police Department shares his unique insights on supporting youth in overcoming challenges related to substance use and untreated mental health issues. With a focus on prevention, education, and reducing stigma, we discuss strategies to empower our community and create a safer environment for everyone. Tune in to learn more about effective interventions and how law enforcement and community collaboration play a crucial role in fostering a healthier Yakima Valley.
2025-06-1025 minSafe Yakima Prevention ConnectionBuilding Safer Communities with Rob Darling: A Collaborative Approach in GrandviewIn this episode, we delve into the power of community collaboration in creating a safe and thriving environment for youth. Our guest, Rob Darling, Superintendent of Grandview School District, shares his insights on harnessing empathy interviews to understand the root causes of community challenges and empowering students through student-led initiatives against hate speech. Learn how Grandview is building bridges between parents, schools, and local organizations to ensure the well-being of every child. Stay tuned for inspiring stories and practical tips to foster safer, substance-free communities.
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Guitar loops 113 05 verison 05 120.8 b...2025-05-2735 minSafe Yakima Prevention ConnectionCommunity First with Sheriff Udell: Law Enforcement’s Role in Youth Substance PreventionIn this episode, we explore the role law enforcement plays in substance use prevention, with a focus on its longstanding involvement in Yakima Valley schools. We're honored to welcome Sheriff Robert Udell of the Yakima County Sheriff's Office — a trusted leader in our community’s efforts to promote safety, prevention, and positive youth development.
Sheriff Udell isn't just a law enforcement leader; he's a lifelong Yakima County resident with deep roots, whose family arrived in the 1890s. With an extensive 35-year career spanning nearly every facet of the Sheriff's Office – from patrol and detective work in major crimes...2025-05-1344 minSafe Yakima Prevention ConnectionYouth Voices in Prevention: Arianna's Leadership JourneyIn this episode of the Safe Yakima Prevention Connection podcast, we delve into the inspiring journey of Arianna Rosales, a junior at Eisenhower High School and president of the SPARK Club. Arianna shares her experiences from joining as a freshman to leading the Drug and Alcohol Prevention Club with passion and dedication. Discover how she's breaking out of her shell, engaging peers, and becoming a vocal advocate for substance misuse prevention in Yakima County.
Listen as Arianna discusses the challenges and triumphs of engaging other youth in prevention work and the strategies that make the SPARK Club...2025-04-2215 minSafe Yakima Prevention ConnectionBreaking Down Barriers with Alicia Stomme Tobin: How Safe Yakima Valley is Transforming Substance Use PreventionJoin hosts Katie Goodale and Marisol Esparza as they engage in insightful discussions with experienced community leaders. This episode features Alicia Stromme Tobin, Executive Director of Safe Yakima Valley, who shares her journey from banking to leading community efforts in youth substance use prevention through community collaboration.
Discover how Safe Yakima Valley is breaking down silos and fostering collaboration among public safety and public health agencies to strengthen prevention initiatives and expand resources across Yakima County. Alicia discusses the critical role of ODMAP in addressing the overdose epidemic and the importance of reducing stigma around medications for...2025-04-0324 min