In this episode of the Pathways 2 Prevention podcast, we explore the critical role of international cooperation in drug abuse prevention with Branislava, a dedicated advocate from Serbia. Branislava shares her journey from law school to making a significant impact on drug policy and international collaboration. She provides a unique perspective on how listening, collaboration, and a multidisciplinary approach can drive meaningful change in the fight against drug abuse.

Key Takeaways

• Branislava's Background: Learn about Branislava's transition from law to drug policy and her motivation to make a difference in this field.
• International Cooperation: Discover the importance of international cooperation in combating drug abuse and the successes and challenges faced by Serbia.
• Multidisciplinary Approach: Understand how a multidisciplinary approach involving various stakeholders can enhance prevention and recovery efforts.
• Projects and Initiatives: Gain insights into specific projects like the "I Choose Recovery" project and the role of therapeutic communities in Serbia.
• Future Goals: Hear about the future goals of Serbia's Office for Combating Drugs, including the creation of more multidisciplinary teams and local strategies for drug abuse prevention.

Episode Quotes

• "You need to love what you do in order for you to do it as best as you can." – Branislava
• "Prevention is better together. Recovery is better together. Together is better." – Branislava
• "The more prevention you have, the less recovery you will need." – Branislava

Webinar Highlight

If you missed our recent webinar featuring Dr. Roneet Lev, an expert in emergency and addiction medicine, you can watch the recording and access all the resources here. Dr. Lev shares real-life case reports from the emergency department, including cases involving pregnant patients, and brings a wealth of experience from her notable career. Don’t miss this invaluable resource!

Resources and Links

• Webinar Recording
• Recovery Cities

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Subscribe & Share

Don’t forget to subscribe to the Pathways 2 Prevention podcast and share this episode with a friend. Prevention is better together, and together, we are stronger.

In this powerful episode, Dave Closson sits down with Dr. David Patton, an Associate Professor in Criminology at the University of Derby, for an in-depth conversation about resilience, recovery, and the transformative power of lived experience.

Dr. David Patton shares his journey from growing up in a disadvantaged neighborhood in England to becoming an associate professor in criminology. He discusses the impact of social policies and economic changes on his community and how it shaped his desire to make a difference. Dr. Patton emphasizes the importance of identity, hope, and support from others in overcoming challenges and pursuing education. He also challenges the traditional academic approach to knowledge creation and highlights the value of participatory research methods, such as PhotoVoice, in giving voice to marginalized communities. Dr. David Patton discusses the power of participatory research and the importance of centering lived experiences in understanding addiction and recovery. He shares examples of how participatory research allows communities to own and disseminate their own stories, humanizing the data and challenging stigmatizing narratives. Dr. Patton also emphasizes the need for a strengths-based approach in recovery, focusing on individuals' strengths and building on them for personal growth. He highlights the Global Position Paper on Inclusive Recovery Cities as a collaborative effort to create more inclusive pathways for recovery at the city level.

• Dr. David Patton's Website
• Unnecessary Harm Podcast
• The Global Position Paper on Recovery (GPPR)

Drug Free America Foundation Links:

• Website
• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube
• Twitter

In this powerful episode of the "Pathways to Prevention" podcast, Dave welcomes Boomer Rose, a fervent advocate and inspiring figure in the realms of prevention and recovery. Boomer shares his profound journey from overcoming personal adversities including addiction, incarceration, and homelessness to becoming a leading voice in community transformation. His story highlights the importance of lived experience in crafting interventions that truly resonate with vulnerable populations.

What You'll Learn:

• Boomer's personal path through recovery and how it has shaped his approach to helping others.
• The role of gratitude, love, unity, and empowerment in healing and prevention.
• Insights into Boomer's non-profit work with Glue Tampa Bay and the holistic programs they offer to combat substance abuse and foster life skills in youth.
• The innovative ways Boomer integrates technology into recovery and prevention efforts, including the development of a mobile app aimed at supporting those struggling with addiction.
• Strategies for engaging youth and the community in conversations that lead to meaningful change.

If today's episode inspires you, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Your feedback not only helps us improve but also helps others find us. Subscribe to ensure you never miss an episode, and share this podcast with someone who could benefit from today's discussion. Together, we can spread the message of hope and transformation far and wide.

Episode Links:

• https://www.boomerrose.com/
• https://www.facebook.com/boomerroseofficial
• https://www.instagram.com/gratefulboomer/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/boomer-rose/
• https://twitter.com/the_boomerrose
• https://www.humanistictech.com/

Drug Free America Foundation Links:

• Website
• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube
• Twitter