Prevention Leaders w/ Dave Closson

Do you ever walk out of a coalition meeting with a solid plan—only to feel completely stuck once you’re back at your desk? You’re not alone. In this episode, Dave Closson introduces the Five Pillars of Tactical Capacity—a powerful framework to help prevention leaders bridge the gap between strategy and execution.

Whether you’re managing shifting priorities, struggling to keep partners engaged, or just feeling overwhelmed by all the ...

After a short break, Dave is back—fresh from speaking at the 68th Commission on Narcotic Drugs at the United Nations in Vienna. Inspired by that global conversation with Shane Varcoe from the Dalgarno Institute, this solo episode dives deep into the overlap between prevention and recovery.

Dave explores why lived experience and earned resilience are essential prevention tools and how we can challenge the stigma around addiction,...

In this episode of the Prevention Leaders Podcast, host Dave Closson dives into a crucial but often overlooked aspect of prevention work—execution. While many prevention efforts focus on training, resources, and planning, real success comes from Tactical Capacity—the ability to execute, adapt, and sustain efforts in the real world. Dave shares insights from his time as an infantry team leader and recon sniper in Iraq, where he lear...

In this episode of the Prevention Leaders Podcast, host Dave Closson dives into a crucial but often overlooked factor in substance misuse prevention—tactical capacity. While traditional capacity building focuses on knowledge, skills, resources, and infrastructure, tactical capacity is what truly determines success in real-world prevention work.

Dave breaks down the key elements of tactical capacity, why traditional approaches often ...

In this special episode, Dave Closson shares insights from his session at SAMHSA’s Prevention Day,Speak to the Heart: Unleashing the Power of Engaging Stories. Storytelling is one of the most powerful tools in substance misuse prevention—it fosters connection, reduces stigma, and inspires action. Dave discusses why stories are more memorable than statistics, how youth leadership in prevention makes an impact, and provides practical...

In this episode of the Prevention Leaders Podcast, Dave Closson sits down with Dr. Crystal Collier, an expert in neuroscience, prevention research, and therapy, to discuss how brain-based prevention strategies can help young people avoid risky behaviors. Rather than focusing solely on substances, Dr. Collier emphasizes the importance of strengthening executive functioning skills to build resilience, improve decision-making, and c...

Understanding the dynamics of risk and protective factors is essential for anyone working in substance misuse prevention. In this episode of the Prevention Leaders Podcast, Dave Closson breaks down how these factors influence behavior and outcomes in individuals and communities. Using relatable analogies and real-life scenarios, Dave explains how prevention professionals can tip the balance in favor of protective factors, creating ...

In this episode of the Prevention Leaders Podcast, host Dave Closson explores how to create effective and sustainable substance misuse prevention frameworks tailored to the specific needs of your community. A solid prevention foundation ensures long-term success, builds stronger partnerships, and makes a measurable impact. Dave breaks down the essential steps to help prevention professionals, community leaders, and advocates drive...

In this episode of the Prevention Leaders Podcast, Dave Closson breaks down the core principles of substance misuse prevention, explaining the importance of proactive strategies and a layered approach to creating healthier communities. Dave discusses the three levels of prevention (primary, secondary, and tertiary) and how they work together to form a comprehensive safety net. He also introduces key prevention models such as the ...

In this enlightening episode of the Prevention Leaders Podcast, host Dave Closson sits down with Ben Tanzer, trainer and storyteller from The Montana Institute, to explore the transformative role of strategic communication in substance misuse prevention. Together, they discuss the importance of data-driven messaging, the pitfalls of fear-based campaigns, and how positive community norms can inspire hope and action. Whether you’re a...

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.

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In this episode of the Prevention Leaders Podcast, host Dave Clausen is joined by Rich Lucey, a distinguished figure in the field of prevention with over three decades of experience at the state and federal levels. Currently serving as the Senior Prevention Program Manager in the DEA’s Community Outreach and Prevention Support Section, Rich shares his wealth of knowledge and insights on strategic prevention.

Rich's journey into...

In this episode, the host Dave welcomes back Kate and Catherine to continue their discussion about the SHIFT initiative at UT Austin. They explore how SHIFT aims to challenge campus norms around substance use by promoting mindful decision-making and inclusive, equitable social experiences. Kate explains the origins and impact of the SHIFT program, while Catherine shares her personal experiences and growth as a SHIFT Maker. The conv...

In this compelling episode of the Prevention Leaders Podcast, host Dave Closson speaks with Susie [수지] Reece, a leading figure in suicide prevention whose personal and professional life intersect through her own experiences of loss and resilience. Susie shares her insightful perspectives on overcoming the suicide of her father, the unique challenges of her upbringing, and how these experiences propelled her into her role as a prev...

This episode features an in-depth conversation with Trish Luna, an author and speaker from Nashville, on the Prevention Leaders podcast, hosted by Dave Closson. Trish shares her personal journey and the motivations behind her book 'Lambi Learns About Addiction:

A Book About Prevention', aimed at helping children navigate the complex emotions and situations arising from familial substance use disorders. Her work, deeply root...

In this compelling episode, we welcome Dr. Emily Klein, an assistant professor at Boston University and leader of the Psychotic Disorders Clinic at Boston Medical Center, to explore the intricate world of mental health and substance use. Dr. Klein shares her extensive experience in clinical psychology, highlighting the transformative impact of motivational interviewing (MI) in therapy. Her journey into MI and its application in o...

In this compelling episode, we delve into the intricate world of mental health and addiction, guided by the expertise of Jacqueline Hall, Chief Operating Officer of Wired BioHealth and Wired for Addiction. This episode stands out as we blend scientific insight with a deeply personal narrative, offering listeners a unique perspective on the challenges and solutions in the realm of mental health and addiction recovery.

Dave shares hi...

In this deeply inspiring episode, we sit down with Nathan Wray, a Prevention Coordinator and motivational speaker who has turned his personal struggles into a powerful force for change. Nathan shares his journey from battling addiction to empowering youth and communities through emotional regulation and prevention strategies. His story is a testament to the transformative power of resilience, connection, and trust.

Key Points Discu...

In this episode, we have a candid conversation with John, a professional photographer and storyteller. John gives us a glimpse into how he uses photography and storytelling as powerful tools to open dialogue, break barriers, and nurture positive change in communities.

From capturing remarkable moments through his lens to using art to bridge divides, John's work represents his commitment to community engagement and unity. He tak...