Watch: 'Awkward Conversations' Podcast, Season 3

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The Drug Enforcement Administration is pleased to announce the next installment of its collaboration with the Elks Drug Awareness Program. 

Welcome to "Awkward Conversations," a transformative podcast where "Full House" and "Fuller House" actress Jodie Sweetin and Amy McCarthy of Boston Children's Hospital delve into crucial topics surrounding drug use prevention and parenting. In this gripping third season, we aim to empower parents and caregivers with knowledge, awareness, and actionable insights to raise drug-free kids and navigate the challenges of modern-day parenting.

Join us on this empowering journey of education, awareness, and meaningful conversations to create a safer and healthier future for our children.

Scroll down to check out the trailer and full episodes! Looking for more? Make sure to catch up on Season 1, Season 2, and Season 4.

Episode 20

Hosts Jodie Sweetin and Amy McCarthy tackle a crucial and often challenging topic: having "The Talk" about drugs with kids. They are joined by a diverse panel of guests, including Dr. Gary Kirkilas, a dedicated pediatrician, Ray Lozano, a dynamic youth drug use prevention expert with a knack for blending education and entertainment, Alisan Porter, a multifaceted musician and former winner of "The Voice, and Greg Grunberg, an actor, host, and dedicated advocate. The panel explores various facets of drug discussions, emphasizing the importance of starting early and maintaining an ongoing conversation rather than one daunting "big talk." Panelists discuss the impact of legalization, the desensitization of kids to drugs, and the startling statistics surrounding drug use among youth. The conversation also touches on practical tips, such as the importance of mealtime discussions and avoiding accusatory questions.

Episode 19

Hosts Jodie Sweetin and Amy McCarthy tackle the urgent and sobering topic of safeguarding children from online drug dangers. Ed Ternan, a devoted father who tragically lost his 22-year-old son, Charlie, to a fake prescription pill, joins the conversation to share his heart-wrenching story. Ed's account highlights the alarming ease with which pills and drugs can be accessed online and sheds light on the accessibility of counterfeit drugs in the digital age.

Episode 18

In episode 18 of Awkward Conversations, titled “Taming the Media Storm: Managing Pop Culture’s Drug Messages,” Dr. Douglas Gentile and Massy Arias join hosts Jodie Sweetin and Dr. Krystal Lewis to explore the profound impact of media on today's society, especially on children and adolescents. Dr. Gentile, a seasoned research scientist with expertise spanning three decades, provides valuable insights into the positive and negative effects of media exposure on young minds. Massy, health coach and influencer, mother and media literacy advocate, sheds light on the harmful consequences of unrealistic beauty standards and detrimental messages perpetuated by pop culture.

Episode 17

"Walking the Talk: Consistent Messaging and Role Modeling in Drug Use Prevention" explores the critical theme of shaping children's attitudes toward drug use through consistent messaging and modeling behavior. Our host Jodie Sweetin and Dr. Krystal Lewis are joined by Erin Wick, Senior Director of Behavioral Health and Integrated Student Supports, and Melora Hardin, an Emmy-nominated actor and mother of two. Together, they delve into parents' perspectives on drinking and co-parenting, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a united front.

They explore effective ways to communicate messages about drinking to children while encouraging open and honest dialogue. Co-parenting challenges are addressed, highlighting the complexities of aligning conflicting ideas. Throughout the episode, the significance of open and honest communication is reiterated, emphasizing the role of relationships in parenting.

Episode 16

This is part two of episode, titled "On Their Own But Not Alone: Encouraging a Drug-Free College Experience," - Continuing the important conversation on encouraging a drug-free college experience, our hosts Jodie Sweetin and Dr. Krystal Lewis, along with their guests, delve deeper into the challenges and solutions for college-bound students and their families.

Dr. Calvin Mackie shares personal experiences and innovative methods to stay connected with college students, emphasizing validation and open communication. He underscores the power of empathy and kindness in supporting students facing drug-related challenges. The episode offers indispensable advice for parents embarking on college tours, emphasizing thorough research into campuses and an understanding of factors influencing students' decisions. 

Episode 15

This two-part episode, titled "On Their Own But Not Alone: Encouraging a Drug-Free College Experience," begins with the excitement and challenges of sending your kids off to college, a milestone that every parent faces. Dr. Allison M. Smith, Assistant Commissioner for Student Health and Wellness at the Louisiana Board of Regents, contributes valuable insights into the primary factors behind drug misuse among college students. 

The conversation continues with Dr. Smith shedding light on the significance of balancing harm reduction vs. prevention. Dr. Calvin Mackie, an accomplished mentor, STEM advocate, university professor and the father of two college age boys, shares his decades of experience and provides valuable insights into the social dynamics of college life.

Natalie, a psychology major in her junior year of college, adds a unique perspective to the episode as she discusses the prevalent substances used by college students, such as alcohol, cannabis, and stimulants.

Episode 14

Jodie Sweetin and Dr. Krystal Lewis, a clinical psychologist at National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), are joined by special guest Jodee Blanco, a prominent anti-bullying advocate and renowned author, to tackle the hidden triggers of substance use tied to bullying during Anti-Bullying Week for this week’s episode called “Bullying and Pressure: The Hidden Triggers of Substance Use”. They explore the link between bullying and drug use, emphasizing the emotional toll on victims. Jodee defines bullying's aggressive nature and discusses the signs that bullying might be happening, shedding light on isolation and various bullying forms.

Episode 13

In "One Pill Can Kill”, hosts Jodie Sweetin and Amy McCarthy are joined by two distinguished guests who shed light on the perilous world of fake pills and fentanyl. Rich Lucey, a senior prevention program manager in the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Community Outreach and Prevention Support Section, brings invaluable expertise in drug misuse prevention and education. Joe Bozenko, a Senior Research Chemist at DEA’s Special Testing and Research Laboratory, is a global authority in investigating synthetic drug manufacturing. Rich and Joe delve into the chilling potency of fentanyl and its profit-driven motivations, emphasizing the challenges in distinguishing these dangerous pills, even for professionals. They highlight the shift toward obtaining pills through social media, revealing the dire need for awareness and action.

Episode 12

Welcome to From Past to Present: The Changing Landscape of Drugs. In this episode, hosts Jodie and Amy are joined by Wendy Woolcock, the DEA’s Deputy Chief of Operations and Dean Esserman, a former Prosecutor, General Counsel, and Police Chief. Beyond their esteemed professional titles, Wendy and Dean are parents themselves, bringing a personal and deeply empathetic perspective to our discussion. Navigating the complexities of today's drug landscape, we delve into the heightened dangers of current drugs, particularly the omnipresence of fentanyl and its association with the dramatic rise in fatal overdoses.

Episode 11

This informative episode delves into the critical aspects of safeguarding your home from the potential dangers posed by prescription medications. Luis begins by discussing the alarming rise in opioid misuse, emphasizing the pandemic-level crisis it has become. Listeners will gain valuable insights into common misconceptions surrounding prescription drug safety, including what to do if illicit drugs are discovered in their homes. The hosts and guests also talk about the next National Prescription Drug Take Back Day coming up on October 28, 2023, shedding light on how safely disposing of prescription drugs can play a crucial role in preventing misuse and accidental ingestion.

Episode 10

In Episode 10 of Awkward Conversations, “Red Ribbon Week”, Jodie and Amy talk to Myrna Camarena, retired federal employee from the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, about Agent Kiki, Myrna's brother, shedding light on his tragic death. Myrna also shares the story behind wearing the red ribbon, a symbol with a powerful message. As the episode unfolds, Myrna explores the messages Kiki would convey to young people today, emphasizing the importance of staying away from drugs, with a focus on prevention starting at home. They discuss the vital role of relationships and community support in keeping our youth drug-free. Additionally, they delve into how parents can actively get involved in drug prevention efforts.

Episode 9

Welcome to the second part of "Mental Health & Drug Use," where we continue the conversation about the dynamics between mental well-being and drug use among youth. Joining Jodie is co-host and adolescent psychiatrist Dr. Krystal, alongside psychotherapist and author Amy Morin. This episode discusses practical strategies, resources, and impactful conversations that empower parents, educators, and concerned individuals to guide young minds toward healthier choices and lasting well-being.

Episode 8

In Part One of "Mental Health & Drug Use Pt. 1," Jodie and esteemed co-host Dr. Krystal Lewis, an adolescent psychiatrist, along with psychotherapist and author Amy Morin delve into the intricate dynamics between mental well-being and drug use among youth. Honoring Mental Health Awareness Week, the trio engages in an insightful conversation that illuminates the linkages between self-medication, stress, and self-esteem challenges, offering profound insights into the intricate struggles facing today's young generation.

Episode 7

This episode is a comprehensive guide for parents and guardians, offering invaluable strategies to ensure the safety and well-being of young drivers. With a focus on proactive preparation, the hosts explore essential topics such as building smart pedestrian habits, refining driving skills, and addressing the unique challenges posed by adolescent brain development. From fostering open conversations about driving under the influence to utilizing technology and contracts to promote responsible behaviors, this episode empowers parents to guide their teen drivers through these potentially hazardous scenarios.

Episode 6

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.

Episode 5

DEA Special Agent Timothy P. 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. He discusses with the hosts 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.

Episode 4

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. Deborah discusses the challenges she faced, including her desperate attempts to find treatments for her daughter. Joanna, Dana’s childhood friend and a senior prevention program manager at the DEA, also joins the conversation and provides valuable insights on recognizing signs of substance misuse.

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.

Episode 3

In part two of "Not Just a Game: Student Athletes & Opioids," 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.

Episode 2

Join hosts Jodie Sweetin and Amy McCarthy in part one of a insightful two-part Awkward Conversations episode. They engage in candid talks about body image, wellness, and the vital issue of drug misuse - topics that resonate with all teens, whether they're casual athletes, high school sports stars, or not in sports. Former Packers player Ryan Grant joins them to share personal experiences and insights on how supportive environments help youth resist negative influences, regardless of their athletic status. Donald Hooton Jr., president of the Taylor Hooton Foundation, sheds light on steroid misuse symptoms and mental health implications.

Episode 1

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.