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!

Season 3, Ep. 1 | Servant Leadership & School Culture: Inspiring Healthy Choices at FairmontIn this episode, we’re joined by Mr. Chad Brusky, principal of Fairmont Jr./Sr. High School, and Mr. Brian Wille, Servant Leadership and Social Studies teacher at Fairmont. Together, they share how the school is cultivating a positive culture where students are encouraged to lead, serve, and make healthy choices.From Cardinal Community Days to the advisory program and Servant Leadership class, these initiatives are shaping student experiences, strengthening mental health, and empowering young people to contribute meaningfully to their community. We dive into how service projects, mentorship opportunities, and leadership development not only enhance school culture but also play a powerful role in preventing substance misuse.You’ll hear stories of students stepping into leadership, making a difference in their peers’ lives, and creating ripple effects that reach far beyond the classroom. Whether you’re an educator, parent, or community member, this episode offers valuable insight into how schools and coalitions can partner to build environments where youth thrive.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!

Season 2, Ep. 9 | Be Extraordinary, Be You: Navigating Substance Misuse and Self AcceptanceIn this powerful episode, we're joined by Randy and Heather Bacchus, founders of Be Extraordinary, Be You!—a nonprofit dedicated to educating families on the dangers of high-potency THC and supporting those facing mental health and substance use struggles.After losing their 21-year-old son Randy to cannabis-induced psychosis and suicide, the Bacchuses turned their unimaginable grief into purpose. In this heartfelt conversation, they share Randy’s story, the advocacy work behind Randy’s Resolution, and how his vlogging journey became a tool for prevention and healing. We dive into questions about youth identity, the pressures today’s teens face, and how families and communities can offer stronger support. This episode is a must-listen for parents, educators, youth, and anyone impacted by addiction and mental health. It’s a reminder that healing is possible, and that stories—no matter how painful—can save lives.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/SpotifyCoffeeandClarityA Higher Love by Heather Bacchus: https://www.amazon.com/Higher-Love-Addicti...Learn more or support our work at www.mcsapcoalition.com.For sponsorship or guest opportunities, contact desta@mcsapcoalition.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 stay part of the conversation!