Coffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance Misuse

Hosted by MCSAP Coalition

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Latest episode

Oct 2026

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EN-US

About the show

A collection of insightful discussions on the critical issue of substance misuse prevention. In this series, we bring together experts, community leaders, and advocates to shed light on the multifaceted challenges of substance misuse and share practical solutions. Join us as we explore the intersections of prevention, education, and support. These episodes provide a rich blend of knowledge and insight, aiming to empower individuals, families, and communities to make informed decisions and create positive change. Tune in, stay informed, and let's work together towards a healthier, safer future.

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30 recent

October 17, 2026Episode 212 min

Inside the Role of a Regional Prevention Coordinator

Season 4, Episode 2 | In this episode of Coffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance Misuse, Empower students sit down with Gina Schoenfeld, the Southwest Minnesota Regional Prevention Coordinator, to talk about what prevention work looks like across our region and how communities work together to support youth and families.Together, we discuss the role of a Regional Prevention Coordinator, how prevention efforts support communities like Martin County, and the common challenges and successes Gina sees across Southwest Minnesota. We also explore how mental health, connection, supportive communities, and addressing root causes all play a role in preventing substance misuse. Gina shares advice for students who want to get involved, make a difference in their schools and communities, and become positive leaders for the future.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/AmazonCoffeeandClaritySpotify: https://bit.ly/SpotifyCoffeeandClarityLearn more or support our work at www.empowermartin.comFor sponsorship or guest opportunities, contact leticia@empowermartin.comThis podcast is made possible by grants from the ONDCP Drug-Free Communities Support Program and the Schmeekle Foundation.Thank you to Gina Schoenfeld for joining us — and thank you for listening! Like, comment, subscribe, and share to stay part of the conversation.

September 19, 2026Episode 125 min

Cannabis Legalization and Youth Prevention_ What’s Changing in Schools

Season 4, Episode 1 | Cannabis Legalization and Youth Prevention: What’s Changing in Schools? In this episode of Coffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance Misuse, host Lillyan sits down with Laura Daak from the Minnesota Prevention Alliance Foundation (MPAF) and Dr. Ken Winters with Smart Approaches to Marijuana Minnesota (SAMMn) to talk about the future of cannabis education in Minnesota schools and why these conversations matter for youth today.Together, we discuss the new cannabis education requirements coming to Minnesota schools, why this education is being prioritized, and what students can learn from it. Laura shares more about the work of MPAF and the process of identifying evidence-based programs for schools, while Dr. Ken Winters explains the mission of SAMMn and the importance of youth prevention efforts, brain development education, mental health awareness, and helping students make informed decisions and support their peers.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/AmazonCoffeeandClaritySpotify: https://bit.ly/SpotifyCoffeeandClarityLearn more or support our work at www.empowermartin.comFor sponsorship or guest opportunities, contact leticia@empowermartin.comThis podcast is made possible by grants from the ONDCP Drug-Free Communities Support Program and the Schmeekle Foundation.Thank you to Laura Daak and Dr. Ken Winters for joining us — and thank you for listening! Like, comment, subscribe, and share to stay part of the conversation.

May 16, 2026Episode 936 min

SROs in Action: How Officers Support Students Every Day

Season 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 Paine and Deputy Gerhardt build trust with students by being present, approachable, and supportive. We also discuss school safety, the challenges SROs face, how they balance their responsibilities, and how mentorship, education, and prevention-focused relationships can create safer, more supportive school environments for students, families, and the broader community.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/AmazonCoffeeandClaritySpotify: https://bit.ly/SpotifyCoffeeandClarityLearn more or support our work at www.empowermartin.comFor sponsorship or guest opportunities, contact desta@empowermartin.comThis podcast is made possible by grants from the ONDCP Drug-Free Communities Support Program and the Schmeekle Foundation.Thank you to Officer Lily Paine and Deputy Chris Gerhardt for joining us — and thank you for listening! This wraps up Season 3, and we’ll be back in September for Season 4. Like, comment, subscribe, and share to stay part of the conversation.

April 18, 2026Episode 825 min

The Power of Mentorship: Kinship of Martin County

Season 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 supported, hear real stories that highlight the power of mentoring, and learn more about the Ambassadors Program and its role in connecting youth with local businesses and future opportunities — offering meaningful insight into why mentorship matters now more than ever.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/AmazonCoffeeandClaritySpotify: https://bit.ly/SpotifyCoffeeandClarityLearn more or support our work at www.empowermartin.comFor sponsorship or guest opportunities, contact desta@empowermartin.comThis podcast is made possible by grants from the ONDCP Drug-Free Communities Support Program and the Schmeekle Foundation.Like, subscribe, and comment to let us know who you’d like to hear from next!*Note: Since recording, Courtney has moved on to new ventures, but Kinship continues its mentoring work in the community.

March 30, 2026Episode 728 min

Leading the Change: Youth in Prevention

Season 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 training youth across the country, Heather has seen firsthand what happens when young people recognize their voice and step into leadership.We talk about:• Why youth voice is essential to real change• Common misconceptions about substance use• How peer influence can be used for good• Practical ways students can get involved in prevention• Simple steps schools can take to start shifting cultureThis episode is a reminder that prevention isn’t just about information—it’s about empowering the majority, shifting norms, and helping young people see the impact they already have.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/AmazonCoffeeandClaritySpotify: https://bit.ly/SpotifyCoffeeandClarityLearn more or support our work at www.empowermartin.comFor sponsorship or guest opportunities, contact desta@empowermartin.comThis podcast is made possible by grants from the ONDCP Drug-Free Communities Support Program and the Schmeekle Foundation.Like, subscribe, and share to help us amplify youth voices and prevention work.

March 30, 2026Episode 511 min

The Unsung Heroes of Coffee & Clarity

Season 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 appreciation for the behind-the-scenes work that brings youth-led prevention stories to life.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/AmazonCoffeeandClaritySpotify: https://bit.ly/SpotifyCoffeeandClarityLearn more or support our work at www.empowermartin.comFor sponsorship or guest opportunities, contact desta@empowermartin.comThis podcast is made possible by grants from the ONDCP Drug-Free Communities Support Program and the Schmeekle Foundation.Like, subscribe, and share to help us amplify youth voices and prevention work!

March 30, 2026Episode 423 min

Healthy Choices at Every Stage: High School, College & Beyond

Season 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, cannabis, and other substances; the role of peers and campus culture; and how student leaders can help shift norms toward healthier, safer behaviors.We also dive into how peer-to-peer education translates to a college environment, the impact of stigma, how prevention programming is evaluated, and what high school students can do now to stay substance-free and continue prevention leadership when they head off to college.Whether you’re a student, parent, educator, or prevention professional, this conversation offers valuable insight into what truly supports young people as they transition into adulthood.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/AmazonCoffeeandClaritySpotify: https://bit.ly/SpotifyCoffeeandClarityLearn more or support our work at www.empowermartin.comFor sponsorship or guest opportunities, contact desta@empowermartin.comThis podcast is made possible by grants from the ONDCP Drug-Free Communities Support Program and the Schmeekle Foundation.Like, subscribe, and share to stay part of the conversation!

March 30, 2026Episode 321 min

Opioid Settlement Funds Part Two: Treatment

Season 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 remain, and how the opioid settlement funds are helping expand access to care.We explore the impact of peer support services through Healing Hearts LLC, how transportation barriers affect treatment engagement, and why wraparound supports—like case management, employment services, and family-based programs such as Celebrating Families—are essential for long-term recovery. Andrea and Rich also reflect on what gives them hope for the future and how community members can play a role in supporting recovery-friendly environments.Whether you’re a parent, educator, service provider, or community member wanting to better understand the treatment landscape, this episode offers a meaningful look at the real work being done to support healing and recovery.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/AmazonCoffeeandClaritySpotify: https://bit.ly/SpotifyCoffeeandClarityLearn more or support our work at www.empowermartin.comFor sponsorship or guest opportunities, contact desta@empowermartin.comThis podcast is made possible by grants from the ONDCP Drug-Free Communities Support Program and the Schmeekle Foundation.Like, subscribe, and share to stay part of the conversation!

March 30, 2026Episode 620 min

Becoming Phone-Free: GHEC’s Steps Toward Student Well-Being

Season 3, Episode 6 | Becoming Phone-Free: GHEC’s Steps Toward Student Well-Being In 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 matters, and how it connects to GHEC’s efforts to move toward a more phone-free school environment. From practical steps students can take to protect their mental health to the role adults play in creating healthier spaces, this conversation highlights how schools and communities can work together to support youth well-being. Listen now on your favorite platform: YouTube: https://bit.ly/CoffeeandClarityYoutube Apple: https://bit.ly/CoffeeandClarityApple iHeartRadio: https://bit.ly/CoffeeandClarityiHeart Audible: https://bit.ly/AudibleCoffeeandClarity Amazon: https://bit.ly/AmazonCoffeeandClarity Spotify: https://bit.ly/SpotifyCoffeeandClarity Learn more or support our work at www.empowermartin.com For sponsorship or guest opportunities, contact desta@empowermartin.com This podcast is made possible by grants from the ONDCP Drug-Free Communities Support Program and the Schmeekle Foundation. Like, subscribe, and share to help us amplify youth voices and prevention work!

October 22, 2025Episode 239 min

Opioid Settlement Funds Part One: Prevention

Season 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 partnerships that make this work possible, and how community members can play a role in supporting prevention and recovery efforts.Whether you’re a parent, educator, community leader, or someone passionate about public health, this episode sheds light on how collaborative efforts and strategic funding are helping create safer, healthier communities.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/AmazonCoffeeandClaritySpotify: https://bit.ly/SpotifyCoffeeandClarityLearn more or support our work at www.empowermartin.comFor sponsorship or guest opportunities, contact desta@empowermartin.comThis podcast is made possible by grants from the ONDCP Drug-Free Communities Support Program and the Schmeekle Foundation.Like, subscribe, and share to stay part of the conversation!

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