Let's Talk About It By USRA Coalition

USRA Coalition
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Mental Health

Welcome to USRA Coalition’s Let’s Talk About It Podcast, where we give you insights into mental health and substance abuse issues. In each episode we’ll have a conversation with a guest who will help educate and create awareness in our communities around these topics. Thanks for listening and enjoy the podcast!

  1. 11/11/2025

    Supporting Students Beyond the Classroom: A Conversation with Dr. Tony LaRocca

    In this episode of the USRA Coalition's Let's Talk About It podcast, we sit down with Dr. Tony LaRocca, Assistant Principal of Student Affairs at Northern Highlands, to discuss the evolving role of prevention, discipline, and wellness in today’s school environment. Dr. LaRocca shares insights on the importance of trusted adult relationships, the school’s approach to vaping and substance intervention, and the integration of mental-health and restorative learning practices. He also talks about innovative programming on the horizon, including a new mind-body wellness initiative designed to support students holistically. Tune in for an honest and impactful conversation on leadership, prevention, and empowering teens beyond the classroom. ___ If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or mental health issues, there are resources to help. Visit our website for more information: https://usracoalition.org USRA Coalition’s Let’s Talk About It Podcast gives you insight into mental health and substance abuse issues. In each episode, we’ll have a conversation with a guest who will help educate and create awareness in our communities around these topics.

    27 min

  2. 09/27/2024

    Supporting Athletes Beyond the Game: A Conversation with Dr. Pete Koeniges

    In this episode of the USRA Coalition's Let's Talk About It podcast, we sit down with Dr. Pete Koeniges, Northern Highlands' Head Athletic Trainer, to discuss the evolving role of athletic training in student wellness. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Koeniges shares insights on the physical and emotional challenges athletes face, the importance of identity beyond sports, and how his department collaborates with the school's wellness team to support students. Tune in for an engaging conversation on the intersection of athletics, mental health, and student well-being. ___ If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or mental health issues, there are resources to help. Visit our website for more information: https://usracoalition.org USRA Coalition’s Let’s Talk About It Podcast gives you insight into mental health and substance abuse issues. In each episode, we’ll have a conversation with a guest who will help educate and create awareness in our communities around these topics.

    23 min

  3. 09/04/2024

    A Highlander’s Return: Empowering Student Wellness with Joe Torres

    In Season 3, Episode 3 of the USRA Coalition's Let's Talk About It podcast, we sit down with Joe Torres, a Northern Highlands alum turned wellness school counselor. Joe shares his journey from student to counselor, offering insights into how the school's wellness department actively supports students' mental health. He discusses the proactive approaches used to engage students, the importance of trusted adult relationships, and the strides Northern Highlands has made in fostering a positive and supportive environment. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about making a difference in students' lives, both on and off the field. ___ If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or mental health issues, there are resources to help. Visit our website for more information: https://usracoalition.org USRA Coalition’s Let’s Talk About It Podcast gives you insight into mental health and substance abuse issues. In each episode, we’ll have a conversation with a guest who will help educate and create awareness in our communities around these topics.

    21 min

  4. 08/27/2024

    Supporting Families & Transforming Lives: A Conversation with Rudy Novak

    In Season 3, Episode 2 of the USRA Coalition's Let's Talk About It podcast, we dive into the world of mental health and substance abuse with Rudy Novak, Vice President of Clinical Partnerships at Altior Healthcare. Rudy shares his journey from personal recovery to helping others find the right support, shedding light on the importance of partnerships in behavioral health. Tune in as Rudy discusses the challenges families face, the vital role of support networks, and the life-changing impact of programs like Ridge RTC. Whether you're a parent, educator, or someone seeking help, this episode offers valuable insights and hope. ___ If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or mental health issues, there are resources to help. Visit our website for more information: https://usracoalition.org USRA Coalition’s Let’s Talk About It Podcast gives you insight into mental health and substance abuse issues. In each episode, we’ll have a conversation with a guest who will help educate and create awareness in our communities around these topics.

    27 min

  5. 08/22/2024

    Navigating Substance Abuse and Underage Drinking: Insights from a Community Perspective

    In this eye-opening episode of Let's Talk About It, we sit down with Captain Ed Kane, a seasoned officer from the Upper Saddle River Police Department, to discuss the critical issues of underage drinking, substance abuse, and the changing landscape of drug legalization. With over 25 years of experience in the community, Captain Kane shares his observations on the attitudes of both youth and parents towards alcohol, the challenges of modern parenting, and the impact of legalizing marijuana. Tune in for practical advice, candid reflections, and an in-depth conversation on promoting safety and responsibility in our communities. __ If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or mental health issues, there are resources to help. Visit our website for more information: https://usracoalition.org USRA Coalition’s Let’s Talk About It Podcast gives you insight into mental health and substance abuse issues. In each episode, we’ll have a conversation with a guest who will help educate and create awareness in our communities around these topics.

    28 min

  6. 10/17/2022

    The Impact of the Not Even Once Program - with Officer Kevin Azevedo

    In the latest episode of USRA Coalition’s Let’s Talk About It, we welcome special guest, Officer Kevin Azevedo. He's a ten year veteran of the Allendale Police Department, serves as the Lead Officer in the Allendale School District as well as at Northern Highlands, and has helped organize the Not Even Once Program. Officer Azevedo shares the impact this program has had, and how teens within the community have benefited from it. We also discuss the negative spiral of crime that substance abuse can be the root of. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or mental health issues, there are resources to help. Visit our website for more information: https://usracoalition.org USRA Coalition’s Let’s Talk About It Podcast gives you insight into mental health and substance abuse issues. In each episode, we’ll have a conversation with a guest who will help educate and create awareness in our communities around these topics.

    20 min

  7. 07/25/2022

    Discussing "The New Normal" - with Dr. Jen Altman

    In this episode of USRA Coalition’s Let’s Talk About It, we welcome back special guest, Dr. Jen Altman. She's a local clinician, a parent, a proud member of the USRA Coalition, and she joins us in this episode to discuss going back to normal post-pandemic, and her praise of the Highlands Wellness Program. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or mental health issues, there are resources to help. Visit our website for more information: https://usracoalition.org USRA Coalition’s Let’s Talk About It Podcast gives you insight into mental health and substance abuse issues. In each episode, we’ll have a conversation with a guest who will help educate and create awareness in our communities around these topics.

    31 min

  8. 03/11/2022

    How a Normal Life Can Still Lead Down a Dark Path with Gail Cole

    In this episode of USRA Coalition’s Let’s Talk About It, we have a special guest, Gail Cole, who discuses her pursuant drive in drug awareness and prevention. Gail also provides us a glimpse into what the struggle is like with an addict in the household, how to help others with awareness, and the tragic loss of her 22 year old son. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or mental health issues, there are resources to help. Visit our website for more information: https://usracoalition.org USRA Coalition’s Let’s Talk About It Podcast gives you insight into mental health and substance abuse issues. In each episode, we’ll have a conversation with a guest who will help educate and create awareness in our communities around these topics.

    27 min
See All (17)

About

Welcome to USRA Coalition’s Let’s Talk About It Podcast, where we give you insights into mental health and substance abuse issues. In each episode we’ll have a conversation with a guest who will help educate and create awareness in our communities around these topics. Thanks for listening and enjoy the podcast!

Information