Step Up to Save Our Children with Denise Mayer

Project Podcast Co.
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  • Parenting

"Step Up to Save Our Children" is a podcast hosted by Denise Mayer, founder of Step Up Anderson Township, a coalition dedicated to fostering a healthy, safe, and drug-free community. The podcast provides valuable insights, evidence-based education, and resources on pressing issues like vaping, marijuana, prescription drugs, and underage alcohol consumption. With a strong focus on both substance misuse prevention and mental health, the podcast aims to equip parents, educators, and community members with tools to support the well-being of the youth.

  1. 6d ago

    Ep 33: Don't Wait Until It's Too Late: Teaching Kids About Body Safety

    The most important conversations you'll ever have with your child may need to happen sooner than you think.In this episode of Step Up to Save Our Children, we welcome Elle Constantine from Educate Before Eight to discuss how parents can confidently teach young children about body safety, healthy boundaries, consent, trusted adults, and personal safety—all in age-appropriate, empowering ways.Rather than creating fear, these early conversations help children build confidence, recognize unsafe situations, and know when and how to seek help.Elle shares practical guidance, common misconceptions, and simple strategies every parent and caregiver can begin using today.Whether you're raising a preschooler, an elementary-aged child, or simply want to be better prepared, this episode offers valuable tools to help protect children through education, communication, and connection.Visit their website for more resources and information.educatebeforeeight.complantingseedsbooks.comAbout this podcastStep Up to Save Our Children is a new podcast promoting a healthy, safe and drug fee community. Important topics with professional guests provide information on a variety of topics from high potency marijuana, underage drinking, fentanyl poisoning and other drug and mental health related issues. This podcast, Step Up to Save Our children, is attempting to meet parents and caregivers where you are. Whether at home, exercising or waiting for your child from sports, music or ballet, this will be your opportunity to keep your children safe by educating yourself to the dangers they face.Who am I?Denise Mayer is a 53-year resident of Anderson Township. Denise received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Cincinnati. She has worked in many volunteer endeavors and was the creator and publisher of Brainstorm Magazine, a publication written by and for high school students that was distributed at sixty-five high schools in the Greater Cincinnati area in the late 80’s and 90’s. A huge advocate for children’s safety and welfare, Denise started Step Up Anderson Township to bring awareness and education to the community on the topics of illegal drugs, vaping, and underage drinking that are affecting our young people. She is a wife of 53 years, mother of three daughters, and grandmother of six, all living in the Anderson Township area and attending Forest Hills Schools. She and her husband Rick are dedicated to their welfare and health as well as that of the Anderson Community.#drugfree #recovery #sober #straightedge #sobriety #soberlife #addiction #drugaddiction #rehab #alcoholfree #addictionrecovery #mentalhealth #sxe #recoveryispossible #wedorecover #soberliving #therapy #fitness #sobermovement #wellness #addictionawareness #health #narcoticsanonymous #mentalhealthawareness #justfortoday #soberaf #drugs #addictiontreatment #alcoholicsanonymous

  2. Jun 4

    Ep 32: Shifting Gears: Saving Young Lives

    What causes teens to make risky decisions behind the wheel—and how can parents, schools, and communities help change the outcome before tragedy strikes? In this episode of Step Up to Save Our Children, we sit down with Taylor Small of Students Against Destructive Decisions to discuss the powerful Shifting Gears program and the growing challenges facing young drivers today. From distracted driving, THC and alcohol use and peer pressure to prevention strategies that truly connect with students, Taylor shares how SADD is helping teens make smarter, safer decisions both on and off the road. This conversation offers practical insight for parents,educators, and anyone who cares about protecting young lives. Learn how education, leadership, and open conversations can help shift the culture around teen driving and empower students to make choices that save lives.Through a national network of student-led chapters in high schools and colleges, SADD provides educational, engaging programming rooted in over four decades of expertise. Our chapters mobilize teens, engage parents, and activate communities around critical issues including traffic safety, substance use prevention, and personal health and safety. www.SADD.orgStep Up to Save Our Children is a new podcast promoting a healthy, safe and drug fee community. Important topics with professional guests provide information on a variety of topics from high potency marijuana, underage drinking, fentanyl poisoning and other drug and mental health related issues. This podcast, Step Up to Save Our children, is attempting to meet parents and caregivers where you are. Whether at home, exercising or waiting for your child from sports, music or ballet, this will be your opportunity to keep your children safe by educating yourself to the dangers they face.Denise Mayer is a 53-year resident of Anderson Township. Denise received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Cincinnati. She has worked in many volunteer endeavors and was the creator and publisher of Brainstorm Magazine, a publication written by and for high school students that was distributed at sixty-five high schools in the Greater Cincinnati area in the late 80’s and 90’s. A huge advocate for children’s safety and welfare, Denise started Step Up Anderson Township to bring awareness and education to the community on the topics of illegal drugs, vaping, and underage drinking that are affecting our young people. She is a wife of 53 years, mother of three daughters, and grandmother of six, all living in the Anderson Township area and attending Forest Hills Schools. She and her husband Rick are dedicated to their welfare and health as well as that of the Anderson Community.DISCLAIMER*The content on Step Up Anderson is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Discussions on substance misuse, mental health, and community safety aim to raise awareness, not replace expert guidance. Guest opinions and external resources do not imply endorsement. Step Up Anderson is not responsible for actions taken based on our content. By watching, you acknowledge that we are not liable for any outcomes related to the information shared. For concerns, please contact us directly.

  3. May 21

    Ep 31: Teen Pornography: The Conversation Parents Can’t Avoid

    In today’s digital world, many teens encounter pornography long before parents realize it—and its impact can be deeper than most families understand. In this eye-opening conversation, we sit down with Mandy Sanchez of Culture Reframed to discuss how pornography affects the developing brain, shapes expectations around relationships, influences mental health, and changes the way young people view themselves and others.We also give parents practical tools for prevention, healthy conversations, digital boundaries, and what to do if their child has already been exposed.This is not a conversation rooted in fear—it’s about awareness, wisdom, and helping families raise strong, healthy teens in a challenging culture.www.culturereframed.orgStep Up to Save Our Children is a new podcast promoting a healthy, safe and drug fee community. Important topics with professional guests provide information on a variety of topics from high potency marijuana, underage drinking, fentanyl poisoning and other drug and mental health related issues. This podcast, Step Up to Save Our children, is attempting to meet parents and caregivers where you are. Whether at home, exercising or waiting for your child from sports, music or ballet, this will be your opportunity to keep your children safe by educating yourself to the dangers they face. Denise Mayer is a 53-year resident of Anderson Township.  Denise received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Cincinnati.  She has worked in many volunteer endeavors and was the creator and publisher of Brainstorm Magazine, a publication written by and for high school students that was distributed at sixty-five high schools in the Greater Cincinnati area in the late 80’s and 90’s.  A huge advocate for children’s safety and welfare, Denise started Step Up Anderson Township to bring awareness and education to the community on the topics of illegal drugs, vaping, and underage drinking that are affecting our young people. She is a wife of 53 years, mother of three daughters, and grandmother of six, all living in the Anderson Township area and attending Forest Hills Schools.  She and her husband Rick are dedicated to their welfare and health as well as that of the Anderson Community. DISCLAIMER* The content on Step Up Anderson is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Discussions on substance misuse, mental health, and community safety aim to raise awareness, not replace expert guidance. Guest opinions and external resources do not imply endorsement. Step Up Anderson is not responsible for actions taken based on our content. By watching, you acknowledge that we are not liable for any outcomes related to the information shared. For concerns, please contact us directly.

  4. May 6

    Ep 30: Teen Parties, Alcohol, and the Cost of Looking the Other Way

    What really happens when parents allow teens to drink at home? In this powerful episode of Step Up to Save Our Children, we sit down with Fran Gerbig, Executive Director of Prevention Action Alliance, to unpack the truth behind the Parents Who Host Lose the Most campaign and what every parent needs to understand about teen parties, alcohol, and liability. Many well-meaning parents believe that allowing drinking at home is the “safer” option—but the reality is far more serious. From legal consequences to life-altering risks, this conversation breaks down what’s actually at stake and how parents can take clear, confident steps to protect their children.You’ll learn:• The real risks of hosting teen parties with alcohol• What parents can be held legally responsible for• Why “supervised drinking” is a dangerous myth• How to set firm boundaries without losing connection with your teen• Practical strategies to prevent underage drinkingThis isn’t about fear—it’s about awareness, leadership, and prevention.• Share this episode with another parent• Subscribe for more conversations that help you protect your kids• Start the conversation in your own home todayBecause one decision can change everything—and prevention starts with you.www.preventionactionalliance.comStep Up to Save Our Children is a new podcast promoting a healthy, safe and drug fee community. Important topics with professional guests provide information on a variety of topics from high potency marijuana, underage drinking, fentanyl poisoning and other drug and mental health related issues. This podcast, Step Up to Save Our children, is attempting to meet parents and caregivers where you are. Whether at home, exercising or waiting for your child from sports, music or ballet, this will be your opportunity to keep your children safe by educating yourself to the dangers they face.Denise Mayer is a 53-year resident of Anderson Township. Denise received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Cincinnati. She has worked in many volunteer endeavors and was the creator and publisher of Brainstorm Magazine, a publication written by and for high school students that was distributed at sixty-five high schools in the Greater Cincinnati area in the late 80’s and 90’s. A huge advocate for children’s safety and welfare, Denise started Step Up Anderson Township to bring awareness and education to the community on the topics of illegal drugs, vaping, and underage drinking that are affecting our young people. She is a wife of 53 years, mother of three daughters, and grandmother of six, all living in the Anderson Township area and attending Forest Hills Schools. She and her husband Rick are dedicated to their welfare and health as well as that of the Anderson Community.DISCLAIMER*The content on Step Up Anderson is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Discussions on substance misuse, mental health, and community safety aim to raise awareness, not replace expert guidance. Guest opinions and external resources do not imply endorsement. Step Up Anderson is not responsible for actions taken based on our content. By watching, you acknowledge that we are not liable for any outcomes related to the information shared. For concerns, please contact us directly.

  5. Apr 22

    Ep 29: Don’t Wait: How to Intervene Before It’s Too Late

    What does it really mean to intervene in a child’s life—before things spiral out of control?In this episode of Step Up to Save Our Children, we explore how to intervene in use—artfully and impactfully—at every stage. From subtle early warning signs to more serious concerns, this conversation is about knowing when to step in, how to do it effectively, and why timing and approach matter more than ever. Kryia Lendzion, prevention specialist, describes in detail how to intervene and when. This is such valuable information for our parents navigating this current culture with our teens. Parents and caregivers often struggle with the balance between protecting their child and pushing them away. This episode breaks down how to recognize those critical moments, communicate in ways that build trust instead of resistance, and take action that truly makes a difference. Because intervention isn’t just about reacting to a problem—it’s about staying connected, being intentional, and showing up in ways that can change the trajectory of a child’s life.If you’ve ever questioned whether you should say something or step in—this episode will give you clarity and confidence. Subscribe for more conversations that empower parents to act early and make a difference. Like, comment, and share to help more families start these critical conversationsStep Up to Save Our Children is a new podcast promoting a healthy, safe and drug fee community. Important topics with professional guests provide information on a variety of topics from high potency marijuana, underage drinking, fentanyl poisoning and other drug and mental health related issues. This podcast, Step Up to Save Our children, is attempting to meet parents and caregivers where you are. Whether at home, exercising or waiting for your child from sports, music or ballet, this will be your opportunity to keep your children safe by educating yourself to the dangers they face.Denise Mayer is a 53-year resident of Anderson Township. Denise received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Cincinnati. She has worked in many volunteer endeavors and was the creator and publisher of Brainstorm Magazine, a publication written by and for high school students that was distributed at sixty-five high schools in the Greater Cincinnati area in the late 80’s and 90’s. A huge advocate for children’s safety and welfare, Denise started Step Up Anderson Township to bring awareness and education to the community on the topics of illegal drugs, vaping, and underage drinking that are affecting our young people. She is a wife of 53 years, mother of three daughters, and grandmother of six, all living in the Anderson Township area and attending Forest Hills Schools. She and her husband Rick are dedicated to their welfare and health as well as that of the Anderson Community.DISCLAIMER*The content on Step Up Anderson is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Discussions on substance misuse, mental health, and community safety aim to raise awareness, not replace expert guidance. Guest opinions and external resources do not imply endorsement. Step Up Anderson is not responsible for actions taken based on our content. By watching, you acknowledge that we are not liable for any outcomes related to the information shared. For concerns, please contact us directly.

  6. Apr 8

    Ep 28: Hazing Isn’t Tradition, It’s Risk: What Parents Need to Know

    Is college hazing still happening? Yes — and many parents don’t realize how serious it can be until it’s too late. In this episode of Step Up to Save Our Children, Denise sits down with Meredith Stewart and Elizabeth Allen of Stop Hazing to discuss the reality of hazing on college campuses today. We cover: What hazing really looks like beyond the movies Why students comply — even when they know it’s wrong The psychological impact of hazing Warning signs parents should watch for Anti-hazing laws like Collin’s Law What families can do before move-in day If you have a teen heading to college, this is a must-watch conversation. Subscribe for more parent-focused conversations on youth safety and prevention. Share this with another parent preparing for college. Check out StopHazing at www.stophazing.org Follow Meredith and Elizabeth on socials at: @meredithstewart10 @elizabeth.allan @stop.hazing @hazingpreventionresearchlab Step Up to Save Our Children is a new podcast promoting a healthy, safe and drug fee community. Important topics with professional guests provide information on a variety of topics from high potency marijuana, underage drinking, fentanyl poisoning and other drug and mental health related issues. This podcast, Step Up to Save Our children, is attempting to meet parents and caregivers where you are. Whether at home, exercising or waiting for your child from sports, music or ballet, this will be your opportunity to keep your children safe by educating yourself to the dangers they face. Denise Mayer is a 53-year resident of Anderson Township. Denise received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Cincinnati. She has worked in many volunteer endeavors and was the creator and publisher of Brainstorm Magazine, a publication written by and for high school students that was distributed at sixty-five high schools in the Greater Cincinnati area in the late 80’s and 90’s. A huge advocate for children’s safety and welfare, Denise started Step Up Anderson Township to bring awareness and education to the community on the topics of illegal drugs, vaping, and underage drinking that are affecting our young people. She is a wife of 53 years, mother of three daughters, and grandmother of six, all living in the Anderson Township area and attending Forest Hills Schools. She and her husband Rick are dedicated to their welfare and health as well as that of the Anderson Community. DISCLAIMER*The content on Step Up Anderson is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Discussions on substance misuse, mental health, and community safety aim to raise awareness, not replace expert guidance. Guest opinions and external resources do not imply endorsement. Step Up Anderson is not responsible for actions taken based on our content. By watching, you acknowledge that we are not liable for any outcomes related to the information shared. For concerns, please contact us directly.

  7. Mar 31

    Ep 27: The Hidden Danger of Kratom: How It's Marketed as a Healthy, Natural Alternative

    The rising threat that many parents are dangerously unaware of: kratom, a plant-based substance often sold right in gas stations and vape shops, is secretly addicting and deadly. Its presence in our communities is expanding rapidly, with over 200 Ohio deaths linked to it since 2019 and a troubling increase in teen access. But what makes kratom so dangerous? It’s marketed as a natural supplement, but health experts warn it mimics opioids in its effects on the brain, posing a severe risk of addiction and overdose. This episode reveals how this "herbal" product has been hijacked by chemists to become a potent, synthesized drug that bypasses typical drug tests and regulatory oversight, putting our youth at unseen peril.You'll discover: how kratom is made more powerful through synthetic compounds like 7-hydroxymetragynine, and why vaping or eating gummies accelerates addiction by bypassing the stomach’s filters. We break down the scary truth about its easy accessibility—sold openly in vape shops, behind counters, and with no age restrictions—and how a middle schooler could buy it with no challenge.Our guests, addiction specialist Emily Stoll and recovering addict Tyler Stroup, share alarming stories of how kratom was initially used to treat pain, anxiety, and opioid withdrawal but has now become a drug of choice for many in need of relief, often unknowingly spiraling into addiction.We explore the broader implications: how the lack of regulation and awareness creates a perfect storm, leading to overdose deaths and a new wave of addiction that is harder to detect. The therapy and recovery community are sounding the alarm, but public understanding lags far behind. If you care about the safety of your children and community, this is essential listening.Ohio is taking action.Read more about it here: https://governor.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/governor/media/news-and-media/governor-dewin[…]harmacy-board-to-schedule-+kratom-compounds-as-illegal-drugsAbout this podcast Step Up to Save Our Children is a new podcast promoting a healthy, safe and drug fee community. Important topics with professional guests provide information on a variety of topics from high potency marijuana, underage drinking, fentanyl poisoning and other drug and mental health related issues. This podcast, Step Up to Save Our children, is attempting to meet parents and caregivers where you are. Whether at home, exercising or waiting for your child from sports, music or ballet, this will be your opportunity to keep your children safe by educating yourself to the dangers they face. Who am I? Denise Mayer is a 53-year resident of Anderson Township.  Denise received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Cincinnati.  She has worked in many volunteer endeavors and was the creator and publisher of Brainstorm Magazine, a publication written by and for high school students that was distributed at sixty-five high schools in the Greater Cincinnati area in the late 80’s and 90’s.  A huge advocate for children’s safety and welfare, Denise started Step Up Anderson Township to bring awareness and education to the community on the topics of illegal drugs, vaping, and underage drinking that are affecting our young people. She is a wife of 53 years, mother of three daughters, and grandmother of six, all living in the Anderson Township area and attending Forest Hills Schools.  She and her husband Rick are dedicated to their welfare and health as well as that of the Anderson Community. #drugfree #recovery #sober #straightedge #sobriety #soberlife #addiction #drugaddiction #rehab #alcoholfree #addictionrecovery #mentalhealth #sxe #recoveryispossible #wedorecover #soberliving #therapy #fitness #sobermovement #wellness #addictionawareness #health #narcoticsanonymous #mentalhealthawareness #justfortoday #soberaf #drugs #addictiontreatment #alcoholicsanonymous

  8. Feb 27

    Ep 26: Trauma and Kids: What Parents Need to Know

    Childhood trauma is more common than many parents realize—and its effects can show up in ways we don’t always expect. In this important conversation, psychotherapist and author Beth Tyson joins us to help parents understand what trauma really is, how it impacts a child’s developing brain and behavior, and most importantly, what adults can do to help children heal. Beth explains the difference between everyday stress and traumatic experiences, the signs parents may miss, and how trauma can surface later as anxiety, anger, withdrawal, or risky behavior. She also offers practical, trauma-informed strategies parents can use to build safety, connection, and resilience at home. This episode is compassionate, hopeful, and grounded in research—reminding parents that healing is possible and that supportive relationships make all the difference. If you care about protecting children and helping them thrive, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. 1. Subscribe to Beth’s free Childhood Trauma Newsletter™ BETHTYSON.COM 2. Learn more about Beth’s therapeutic children’s books for children in care: www.bethtyson.com/books 3. Join Beth’s private Facebook Group: The Trauma Toolkit 4. Follow Beth on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/bethtyson To see more, visit: https://www.bethtyson.com/ https://www.childtrauma.org/trauma-ptsd https://www.connectourkids.org/ Step Up to Save Our Children is a new podcast promoting a healthy, safe and drug fee community. Important topics with professional guests provide information on a variety of topics from high potency marijuana, underage drinking, fentanyl poisoning and other drug and mental health related issues. This podcast, Step Up to Save Our children, is attempting to meet parents and caregivers where you are. Whether at home, exercising or waiting for your child from sports, music or ballet, this will be your opportunity to keep your children safe by educating yourself to the dangers they face. Denise Mayer is a 53-year resident of Anderson Township.  Denise received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Cincinnati.  She has worked in many volunteer endeavors and was the creator and publisher of Brainstorm Magazine, a publication written by and for high school students that was distributed at sixty-five high schools in the Greater Cincinnati area in the late 80’s and 90’s.  A huge advocate for children’s safety and welfare, Denise started Step Up Anderson Township to bring awareness and education to the community on the topics of illegal drugs, vaping, and underage drinking that are affecting our young people. She is a wife of 53 years, mother of three daughters, and grandmother of six, all living in the Anderson Township area and attending Forest Hills Schools.  She and her husband Rick are dedicated to their welfare and health as well as that of the Anderson Community. DISCLAIMER* The content on Step Up Anderson is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Discussions on substance misuse, mental health, and community safety aim to raise awareness, not replace expert guidance. Guest opinions and external resources do not imply endorsement. Step Up Anderson is not responsible for actions taken based on our content. By watching, you acknowledge that we are not liable for any outcomes related to the information shared. For concerns, please contact us directly.

    Ep 26: Trauma and Kids: What Parents Need to Know
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About

"Step Up to Save Our Children" is a podcast hosted by Denise Mayer, founder of Step Up Anderson Township, a coalition dedicated to fostering a healthy, safe, and drug-free community. The podcast provides valuable insights, evidence-based education, and resources on pressing issues like vaping, marijuana, prescription drugs, and underage alcohol consumption. With a strong focus on both substance misuse prevention and mental health, the podcast aims to equip parents, educators, and community members with tools to support the well-being of the youth.

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