Awkward Conversations Jodie Sweetin

Welcome to Season 3 of Awkward Conversations, where we delve into crucial topics that help parents build strong relationships with their children and navigate the challenges of modern-day parenting. In our first episode, we lay the foundation for the entire season by exploring the paramount importance of building a bond with our kids. Our expert guest, Dr. Shefali, a renowned clinical psychologist, NYT best selling author, and advocate for conscious parenting, joins us to share profound insights on how relationships act as the best weapon in keeping our children safe.
 
Dr. Shefali's revolutionary approach challenges us to step out of societal norms and embrace our authentic selves as parents and create a safe space for our children to thrive.  By emphasizing the significance of being a curator rather than a controller, we empower our children to make their own choices and embrace their uniqueness, fostering a deep and connected relationship.
 
Tune in to this insightful episode, filled with practical tips and profound wisdom that will look to  lay the foundation for parents to raise healthy, happy and substance free kids who are empowered to make smart choices throughout their lives!   
 
Key Takeaways:
Building a strong bond with our children is the best defense in keeping them safe and resilient.
Dr. Shefali emphasizes conscious parenting, redefining the traditional model by shifting from control to curation.
Conscious parenting empowers children to make their own choices, fostering an open and connected relationship.
Mindfulness practices, like meditation, strengthen the parent-child bond and help children navigate life's challenges.
Embrace authenticity and celebrate each child's uniqueness to create a space of self-worth and immunity to substance misuse.
Parents should focus on being available and present rather than striving for perfection.
Failure is a part of growth, and children should be exposed to it to develop resilience.
Mindful parenting can transform the parent-child relationship and lead to a fulfilling parenting experience.

Join hosts Jodie Sweetin and Amy McCarthy in part one of this insightful two-part episode of Awkward Conversations where they engage in candid discussions about body image, wellness, and the crucial issue of drug misuse - critical subjects that resonate with all teens, whether they are casual athletes, standout high school sports stars, or not involved in sports at all.
In this episode, they're joined by former Packers player, Ryan Grant, who shares his personal experiences and insights on how supportive environments can help young people, regardless of their athletic status, resist negative influences. Donald Hooton Jr., president of the Taylor Hooton Foundation, brings his expert understanding to the table, shedding light on the symptoms of steroid misuse and its mental health implications.
Throughout this dialogue, the importance of education, awareness, and open communication are emphasized. The aim is to empower young people to make informed decisions and navigate their unique paths. Parents are encouraged to maintain a balanced and mindful approach towards their children's pursuits and understand that wins and losses are part of life's journey.
Through these candid discussions, our goal is to provide parents, educators, and mentors with the necessary tools to support all young people, regardless of their athletic involvement, in leading a healthy, drug-free life. Tune in to this compelling episode to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by today's youth in an increasingly competitive world.
Key Takeaways
The episode addresses the pressing issue of preventing substance misuse among all youth, with a special focus on the rise of steroids and opioids. It emphasizes that these substances can affect anyone, not just student athletes, particularly in relation to body image issues.
Emphasis is placed on promoting health over appearance, fostering self-confidence in young people through open conversations and education. This is relevant whether your child is an athlete or not.
As parents, educators, and mentors, we must equip ourselves with knowledge to guide all young people in their unique paths and prevent substance misuse.
Focusing on health, self-confidence, and open communication can empower all young people, not just athletes, to make informed decisions.
The risks of substance misuse, especially with steroids and opioids, are universal and should not be underestimated. Proactive measures must be taken to address this issue across the board.
Creating a supportive environment with available resources and professional assistance is vital to ensure the well-being of all young people, regardless of their involvement in sports.
By fostering open dialogue and providing support, we can play a crucial role in preventing substance misuse and promoting both physical and mental well-being in all young individuals.
Elks: As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people! 
 
DEA: The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA enforces controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the large

Welcome to Part 2 of our two-part special, "Not Just a Game: Student Athletes & Opioids." As fall sports begin, this episode takes a comprehensive look at the alarming issue of opioid misuse among student athletes.
Our expert guest, Dr. Averill Sutchar, Founder of Physio Project HQ, brings his expertise in sports injuries and physical therapy to the discussion. We explore the reasons behind opioid misuse, particularly in the context of managing pain and injuries among young athletes.
Join co-hosts Jodie Sweetin and Amy McCarthy, along with celebrity guest Ryan Grant and Taylor Hooton Foundation Founder, Donald Hooton Jr, as we discuss the potential risks and long-term health effects associated with steroid and opioid use. 
Dr. Sutchar also sheds light on how parents and mentors can recognize signs of misuse and offers practical advice to protect student athletes' health and well-being.
As a critical conversation for parents of student athletes, this episode aims to equip caregivers with the knowledge and tools to ensure the safety and success of young athletes.
Key takeaways: 
Opioid misuse is a critical issue among student athletes, particularly when managing pain and injuries.
Dr. Averill Sutchar emphasizes the need to be aware of the potential risks and long-term health effects associated with opioid use.
Parents and mentors play a crucial role in recognizing signs of misuse and protecting the health and well-being of student athletes.
Non-opioid alternatives for pain management should be considered and explored whenever possible.
Early education and awareness about the risks of opioid misuse are essential for student athletes and their support systems.
Taking pain seriously and being intentional about how pain is treated can prevent opioid misuse.
Opioids can have significant effects on the body, and it doesn't take long for someone to become addicted.
Seeking professional guidance and talking to the child's healthcare providers are essential steps in addressing opioid-related concerns.
Student athletes should be empowered to prioritize their long-term well-being over short-term solutions.
Parents, coaches, and mentors should foster an environment that prioritizes the health and safety of student athletes over winning at all costs.
BIOS: Donald Hooton Jr. is one the most sought after speakers in North America on the subject of Appearance and Performance Enhancing Substances use by youth. Donald serves as President for the Taylor Hooton Foundation which he helped his parents found in 2004, the year following the loss of his younger brother Taylor. Taylor died after using anabolic steroids.
@thethf
Dr. Averill is the Founder of Physio Project HQ. Averill received his bachelors in Psychology from the University of San Diego in 2008 where he played linebacker for Head Coach Jim Harbaugh. He went on to complete his Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Creighton University. Averill has a special interest in the treatment of sports injuries, various orthopedic conditions, and spinal conditions. His emphasis is a manual treatment approach, which includes one on one treatment while prescribing therapeutic exercises progressively over the course of his treatment. @physioprojecthq
Ryan Grant is a former American football running back in the National Football League (NFL) known for his impressive career with the Green Bay Packers. He was a part of the Packers' Super Bowl XLV championship team in 2010. Ryan Grant's journey from his early years in New York and New Jersey to his success in the NFL remains a testament to his determination and skill on the field. @ryan.grant
Elks: As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Dru

In this heartfelt episode of Awkward Conversations, we embark on an emotional journey with Deborah as she shares her daughter Dana's struggle with substance misuse, which ultimately took her life. Joanna, Dana’s childhood friend, also joins the conversation and provides valuable insights on recognizing signs of substance misuse. Deborah discusses the challenges she faced, including her desperate attempts to find treatments for her daughter.
 
The episode emphasizes the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding substance misuse and mental health. Deborah bravely uses her experience to help others, advocating for overdose prevention and recovery support. She reminds parents that substance misuse can affect any family, urging them not to ignore any signs and to be actively engaged in their children's lives.
 
Thank you to Deborah for her courage in sharing her story and honoring Dana's memory. This powerful episode serves as a reminder that substance misuse can affect any family, urging parents not to ignore any signs and to actively address mental health issues and create a supportive community to combat the real dangers of substance misuse.
Key Takeaways:
Substance misuse can affect any family, urging parents not to ignore any signs and actively address mental health issues.The importance of honesty with kids and recognizing signs of substance misuse are crucial steps for parents. The conversation sheds light on the challenges faced in seeking treatments and battling the stigma surrounding mental health and substance misuse. Parents must remain vigilant and engaged in their children's lives to address substance misuse effectively. Open and honest communication with kids is essential in recognizing and preventing substance misuse. Breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and substance misuse is crucial in supporting affected families. Jodie Sweetin is an actress, author, and advocate, best known for her role as Stephanie Tanner on the iconic sitcom "Full House" and its sequel "Fuller House". In 2009 she penned her memoir, "unSweetined", which chronicles her journey through addiction and into recovery. With her frank and open approach, Jodie has emerged as a compelling speaker and advocate who now seeks to use her platform and experiences to educate others and reduce the stigma associated with addiction and recovery.@jodiesweetin
 
Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is a Director of Clinical Social Work at Boston Children's Hospital’s Division of Addiction Medicine. She has been working in the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program since 2019
@amymccarthylicsw
 
Deborah Dinnocenzo, a brave mom who has experienced the unimaginable, and yet, finds the strength to share her personal journey, in hope of safeguarding other families from the tragic ripple effects of substance misuse.
 
Joanna Anderko joined the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in 2020 as a Senior Prevention Program Manager in DEA’s Community Outreach and Prevention Support Section. Prior to that, she spent 4 years working for the New York/New Jersey High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas program out of the New Jersey DEA Office as a Demand Reduction Coordinator. Joanna currently lives in Alexandria, Virginia and works at DEA Headquarters. Joanna spends most of her time working on the fentanyl crisis, including speaking to thousands of families who have been impacted by fentanyl. She also manages the DEA's Faces of Fentanyl wall, a physical display of photos showing the thousands of victims lost to fentanyl that is housed at DEA Headquarters. She is also a Bloomberg Fellow and is currently finishing her 2nd Masters in Public Health focusing on Addiction and Overdose studies at Johns Hopkins University. Her research interests include adverse childhood experiences and the link of ACE's and addiction.
 
Elks: As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2

Today’s Awkward Conversation is a revisit from last season, which is knowing the signs of possible drug use and what to do. Our host, Jodie Sweetin is joined by Timothy P. McMahon who has been employed by the DEA since 1998 and Amy McCarthy, Clinical Social Worker at Boston Children's Hospital. Special Agent McMahon shares common ways that kids hide drugs in plain sight and what signs to look for with changes to personality, involvement, or money use. They also share tips on how to talk to your child about drugs and how to respond with love rather than anger if you discover your child is using drugs. This topic can be scary and overwhelming to parents but they need to remember the sooner you address it, the better. 

Key Takeaways:
Teenagers often hide drugs in plain sight. Some places could be behind picture frames on the wall, in a book on their bookshelf, or even in a pop can or tennis ball.
If you discover that your kids are using drugs, be sure to not respond in anger. Take a step back and collect your thoughts before approaching your child. Rather than lecture them, ask open ended questions and come at if from a place of wanting to understand what’s going on.
When you find these drugs you need to address the situation as quickly as possible because the situation will only get worse. And with each time that they use or engage in drug use, it can only lead to that much more danger.
Jodie Sweetin is an actress, author, and advocate, best known for her role as Stephanie Tanner on the iconic sitcom "Full House" and its sequel "Fuller House". In 2009 she penned her memoir, "unSweetined", which chronicles her journey through addiction and into recovery. With her frank and open approach, Jodie has emerged as a compelling speaker and advocate who now seeks to use her platform and experiences to educate others and reduce the stigma associated with addiction and recovery. @jodiesweetin
Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is a Director of Clinical Social Work at Boston Children's Hospital’s Division of Addiction Medicine. She has been working in the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program since 2019 @amymccarthylicsw
Special Agent Timothy P. McMahon has been employed by the Drug Enforcement Administration since October 1998 and has been assigned to DEA’s New Jersey Division.  Prior to becoming a Special Agent with the DEA he spent six (6) years as a trooper with the New York State Police from October 1992 thru October 1998.  Special Agent McMahon has been assigned to enforcement and task force groups investigating drug trafficking organizations. He has also served as the Special Agent Recruiter, Demand Reduction Coordinator and Public Information Officer. Special Agent McMahon was recently promoted to Group Supervisor for the Special Support Unit. Supervisory Special Agent McMahon earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from St. Bonaventure University.

Elks: As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people! 
DEA: The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA enforces controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. D

In a world where early intervention can make all the difference, Episode 6 of our series, "No Time to Waste: Getting Help for Your Child's Drug Use," delves into the vital realm of preventing and addressing adolescent drug misuse. From recognizing the signs of drug misuse to navigating the myriad of resources available, this episode embarks on a journey of knowledge and compassion, equipping you with essential insights for both early detection and intervention.
Terrence Spain introduces the groundbreaking 988 helpline, a nationwide lifeline for those grappling with drug misuse or mental health concerns. Robert Vincent adds to the discourse, guiding listeners to a wealth of online support platforms that complement the 988 helpline. Strategies for overcoming stigma take center stage as Terrence lends his voice to the importance of dispelling myths and ensuring every child receives appropriate assistance. The journey of recovery is illuminated through poignant narratives, reinforcing the belief that recovery is not only possible but within reach for most.
 
Key Takeaways:
• Early intervention plays a crucial role in preventing adolescent drug misuse and its potential long-term effects.
• The 988 helpline provides a nationwide resource for parents and guardians seeking assistance for drug misuse or mental health concerns.
• Overcoming stigma is essential for ensuring every child receives the appropriate support and guidance they need.
• Creating a safe and nonjudgmental space is vital when approaching conversations about drug use with your child.
• Exploring diverse therapeutic approaches and finding the right fit for your child can be instrumental in their journey toward recovery.
 
Jodie Sweetin is an actress, author, and advocate, best known for her role as Stephanie Tanner on the iconic sitcom "Full House" and its sequel "Fuller House". In 2009 she penned her memoir, "unSweetined", which chronicles her journey through addiction and into recovery. With her frank and open approach, Jodie has emerged as a compelling speaker and advocate who now seeks to use her platform and experiences to educate others and reduce the stigma associated with addiction and recovery.
Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is a Director of Clinical Social Work at Boston Children's Hospital’s Division of Addiction Medicine. She has been working in the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program since 2019
Terrence Spain, MPH is the Senior Manager for Adolescent Substance Use and Co-Occurring Disorders for the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. He obtained his undergraduate degree from Charleston Southern University and his master’s in public administration, with an emphasis in Public Policy, from the University of Oklahoma. Prior to working for ODMHSAS he worked for over 11 years in the field of juvenile justice focusing on the area of disproportionate minority contact. Terrence began working for the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services in 2013 as the Alcohol Program Manager for the Prevention division. Mr. Spain spent over 7 years working in the prevention division overseeing planning, implementing, and evaluating environmental prevention services statewide for all major substance use issues. Currently, Mr. Spain works to improve access and treatment for all Oklahoma youth and families by working to integrate prevention, treatment, and recovery in every aspect of service delivery. He lives in Chickasha, Oklahoma with his wife of 15 years and two children.
 
Rob Vincent serves as the Associate Administrator for Alcohol Prevention and Treatment Policy for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, Division of Systems Development. Prior to coming to SAMHSA Rob served as the Administrator for True North-Student Assistance & Treatment Services at the Educational Service District 113’s Department of Educational Sup