Positive Alternatives

Step Right Up Jul 03, 2020

Teaching leadership just might be the remedy for helping teens make good choices with alcohol and drugs.

Leadership By Design Jun 26, 2020

Leadership development enhances the capacity to see beyond challenges. Joel Pelland, Pelland Performance Consulting , shares his vision on how to position yourself, and your young athlete, for more successful results in whatever goal you are endeavoring to attain.

We Succeed Together Jun 20, 2020

Some suggestions on how to address the long term health problem of underage drinking. Hint: It Starts At Home. Also some words to express my deep thanks to all of our Jonathan D Petit Regional Sticker Shock participants! PEACE.

Teach Your Parents Well Jun 12, 2020

In this episode, six young teens share their thoughts about underage drinking. It should come as no surprise to anyone listening; access to alcohol for our teens is as easy as one - two -three. "If They Can't Buy It, Don't Supply It". Sometimes the hardest thing and the right thing are the same.

#PositiveAlternatives #Teenstrong #stickershockcampaign

Thoughts from The Riverwalk Jun 05, 2020

Matt Cassity - 360 Youth Services - Naperville - and Rich Wistocki - Be Sure Consulting - are two youth-focused adult leaders who are connected with Naperville's teens. While their respective labors transcend city boundaries, their hearts are always with the city they love.

The Gentle Strength Of Moms May 30, 2020

Amy Voss - Shatterproof - and Felicia Miceli - LTM Foundation - know that there is no other path than the one that moves forward. These two Moms, each in their own way, inspire those who care and support their missions.

Passion moves them and love is the fuel for their engines.

Attitude of Gratitude May 22, 2020

Taylor Dockter - Impact Spartanburg - and Augie Ghilarducci - 2nd Opportunity LLC - provide some Positive Messaging as well as updates to how the work they each do has been impacted since Covid 19 changed the way we live.

Undeterred, they continue to move in a forward direction.

Shaping Our Positivity Muscle May 15, 2020

Jennifer Cifaldi, Illinois Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutor, and Ben Pohl, Public Speaker, share some messages on how they keep putting one foot in front of the other as they prepare for their next steps.

Ben Pohl Speaks

Illinois Traffic Safety Resource Program

Mind Our Own Spaces May 08, 2020

Danielle Brengel, of the Illinois Human Performance Project, and Gil Feliciano, Drug Free Communities Coordinator, share Positive Perspectives of how they continue to move forward in the face of Covid 19. While it's not always easy, it is always necessary.

Illinois Human Performance Project - Home

ILHPP Virtual Summit - Everybody Welcome!

Community for a Safe and Healthy Elgin - Facebook

Young Bodies, Old Souls May 01, 2020

For some, wisdom comes earlier in life...before the grey hair and stiff knees. Jordan Esser, Project Coordinator - DuPage County Health Department, along with motivational speakers Matt Matkovich and Phil Januszewski - M&P Presentations; are adjusting to these new life changes by using the tried and true techniques of love, family, and hope.

DuPage County Prevention Leadership Team

M&P Presentations

DuPage County Health Dep't.

Combined Resolve Apr 24, 2020

Rita Kreslin, the Executive Director of The Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists, and Gilda Ross, Glenbard Parent Series, are guiding their own respective missions through these new and wide open seas. In this episode they kindly share messages of better days to come.

We're in good hands.

Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists

AAIM - Facebook Page

Glenbard Parent Series

Glenbard Parent Series - Facebook

"...a listening heart perceives meaning." Apr 17, 2020

Dr. Aaron Weiner, Director of Addiction at Linden Oaks Behavioral Health, and Dagmar Kauffman, Founder of On Balance Parenting, share some positive thoughts for these ever changing days.

Tips For Managing Your Anxiety about Coronavirus - Dr. Aaron Weiner

COVID 19 Tips for Health Professionals - Dr. Aaron Weiner

On Balance Parenting

Living In The Next Generations' History Books Apr 10, 2020

We are always faced with making choices and we will always live with those choices we make. This closing of our family circles reinforces our interdependence on one another. We must choose wisely.

#TogetherWereBetter

#PositiveAlternatives

Getting Adjusted Apr 03, 2020

I began to promote my Social Media Campaign about Alcohol Awareness Month (April) and I quite simply couldn't do it. I kind of felt the people of the world might be pre-occupied. #beatthevirus #defeatthevirus #peacetoall

When The Going Gets Tough...you know the rest. Mar 20, 2020

Not often do we go through such a global concerning event as we seem to be doing with our new corona virus infected life. We can, and will, get through this latest challenge that is happening during our own journey here on the 3rd rock. Keep your head up and let's get to it.

No No Corona Mar 13, 2020

What will we learn from this ever changing coronavirus ride through the planet? Will we take lessons from the coronavirus future studies and develop corrective actions? Will we apply the corrective actions to future pandemics?

Influential Engagement Mar 06, 2020

In the heat of a tough parent/teen discussion, cooler heads will prevail.

Meet The New Boss Feb 28, 2020

Canna-Business. The business of legalized weed is following the alcohol business playbook. Will we be smarter as to how we manage weed's access to our teens?

Yeah, It's Kind of a Big Deal Feb 21, 2020

How does addiction work? It works by hijacking the brain. Similar to diabetes impairing the pancreas or heart disease damaging your ticker; addiction attacks your brain. The toll on individuals and families is immeasurable.

For Every Reaction There Is Feb 14, 2020

It hasn't taken long for some changes to come to the DUI Court I monitor as a result of legal cannabis in Illinois. An increase in arrests? No. But some interesting, but not surprising (I suppose) requests, from the Defense.

So, We Still Don't Understand Social Hosting? Feb 07, 2020

I share a quick story about a Statutory Summary Suspension Hearing as well as some reflections regarding my interview from two weeks past and my own thoughts about what was left unsaid regarding Social Hosting laws.

https://www2.illinois.gov/ilcc/Education/pages/parental-responsibility/know-the-law.aspx

The Taylor Dockter Interview Jan 31, 2020

Taylor Dockter, who spends her days as Project Coordinator for Impact Spartanburg DFC and also a Senior Prevention Specialist for The Forrester Center for Behavioral Health, spends her spare time advocating for the victims of human trafficking. There are so many things that need our attention. The pain of Human Trafficking should be near the top of anyone's list.

www.impactspartanburg.com

Putting It Out There Jan 24, 2020

In this episode the nicely dressed young lady heads off to jail while the alleged DUI Counselor who allegedly defrauded insurance companies is fighting back in court. It's always good to go home to a great wife and a great life as Retired Guy.

The Larry Mishkin Episode Jan 17, 2020

Larry Mishkin, Hoban Law Group, represents individuals who hope to open recreational marijuana stores in Illinois. I am sure you may find yourself shaking your head at times, but the important thing is to have open dialogue, and a calm mind. Our teens are worth it.

Larry Mishkin - Hoban Law Group

Words Matter Jan 10, 2020

In the episode we share words from past guests as to what single thing they would do to leave the wold a better place. Worthy of hearing again...and again.

Rollin' In The Dough Jan 08, 2020

The first few days of legal weed sales in Illinois made for good reading in the local newspapers. Time will tell the whole story.

My Marijuana Adventure Jan 03, 2020

Yesterday I entered one of Illinois newly designated recreational marijuana stores and made a purchase. Why would I do such a thing that runs counter to my message? You will have to listen to find out.

Almost Smoked Jan 01, 2020

What seemed simple turned into exasperation; until I took a seat and looked at the problem from a different angle.

Happy New Year my friends!

www.positivealternatives.net

Three Jonathan Stories Dec 27, 2019

After all these years the memories remain close to the heart.

www.positivealternatives.net

It's Ok to Say Merry Christmas. Dec 25, 2019

Focus on REAL problems, not made up ones. We all will be better off for you sage choice.

The Ben Pohl Interview Dec 20, 2019

Ben Pohl suffered serious injuries when he drove distracted 17 years ago during his teen age years. In an era when we are mesmerized by our smartphones, Ben reminds young people that there is more to driving distracted than simply locking your eyes onto your electronics when you drive.

www.benpohlspeaks.com

Let's Be Real Dec 18, 2019

Nothing new under the sun. The first arrest for Marijuana in Illinois after January 1st for Driving Impaired will be big news. Those who are against the legalization of marijuana will point to the story as evidence of "I told you so". So sorry, but folks have been driving high for many years now on more than alcohol. What is old news will be made to appear as new news.

The Felicia Miceli Interview Dec 13, 2019

Felicia Miceli lives with Bella, who is her late son Louie's dog. She works day in and day out reminding parents and their children of the life and death struggle so many face with opioid and heroin addiction. Her son was first prescribed opioids when he was injured during high school athletics. Once the opioid took hold, he was never able to shake it. After years of fighting the disease he succumbed to it at the young age of 22.

www.ltmfoundation.org

Give The Gift of Empathy For The Holidays Dec 11, 2019

Stress is insidious. When you lose a child the holiday season can be difficult. The decorations can be hard to put up. The favorite meal that he, or she, loved can be hard to prepare. The joy can be all too easily tempered by the memory and the wonder of what might have been. If you know a person who lost a child, give the gift of a story about their child that makes both of you smile. Give it freely and with love.

The Teddi Krochman Interview Dec 06, 2019

Not all who spend a career in helping others find the same path to success. It's our ability as humans to look at the same picture in different ways while still having the same goals at the end that lead us to a more successful result.

If you're the smartest person in the room, you're in the wrong room. - Joel Pelland

The Teddi Krochman Interview Dec 06, 2019

Not all who spend a career in helping others find the same path to success. It's our ability as humans to look at the same picture in different ways while still having the same goals at the end that lead us to a more successful result.

If you're the smartest person in the room, you're in the wrong room. - Joel Pelland

And The Defense Attorney Said Dec 04, 2019

The perception that alcohol is not as problematic as other drugs is pervasive. That perception is at the root of the challenge to save young lives...and old.

The Augie Ghilarducci Interview Nov 29, 2019

Our interview with Augie Ghilarducci who spent 13 years in prison and now returns to those same prisons to help inmates find a better path upon their own release. He uses his experience to teach successful skills and provide a second chance.

2nd Opportunity LLC

Comin' 'Round The Bend Nov 27, 2019

Thanksgiving Eve, the time when the students come home from college to connect with old friends is one of the big party times of the year. Have a plan, enjoy the camaraderie, and get home safely.

The Rams Committed Interview Nov 22, 2019

We don't talk AT Teens, we discuss ideas and issue WITH teens. It's called communication on a respectful level. This is a refreshing conversation about leadership, growth, and vision for a brighter future. Great things afoot at Glenbard East High School in Lombard, IL.

Rams Committed Twitter

You CAN Be The Coach - Start It Up Nov 20, 2019

In this episode of 5 Minute Thoughts I share some observations about the art of getting started. Remember, showing up and getting started is half the battle. Once you cross that threshold you are on your way.

Substance Use Disorder is Not A Weakness - Part Two Nov 15, 2019

Part # 2 of our 2 part interview with Dr. Kathleen Burke. We continue our discussion on how substance use disorder is an evil foe not to be taken lightly. How many potentially great people have we lost to this insidious enemy? Will compassionate care lead us out of the darkness? Dr. Burke argues that Science is our best tool in this difficult battle to save lives.

Disagree Respectfully Nov 13, 2019

When friends disagree it's important to remain friends. The value of friendship should not be overlooked. It is the ninth wonder of this world.

Substance Use Disorder is Not A Weakness Nov 08, 2019

The Kathleen Burke Interview Part 1 - The journey to help others in their battle against substance abuse comes to Dr. Burke's home where she discovers the tales told to her by parents of children suffering from the disease of addiction becomes all too familiar. Not to be deterred, she buckles in for the battle.

Stay In Balance Nov 06, 2019

In this episode of Positive Alternatives 5 Minute Thoughts, (which goes a bit over 5 minutes again, I just can't seem to keep my word) we discuss the merits of living a life the proper way through a plan of mind - body balance. You can't have one without the other.

The Opposite of Love is Control Nov 01, 2019

Our interview with Dagmar Kauffman - Founder of On Balance Parenting, Collaborator, Peaceful Warrior, and Educator of Educators. We discuss how young people are losing out on the opportunity to grow and learn from their mistakes when parents step in and fix what may not really be broken.

On Balance Parenting

Practice? We Talking About Practice? Oct 30, 2019

In this episode of 5 Minute Thoughts, I share how even us old guys need to work on the basics. Make that thing you wanna' do becomes that thing you easily do. Practice, practice, practice.

Observations On A Fall Day Oct 25, 2019

There are things that catch your eye when you are surfing the 'net. You know what I am saying. The Internet. Where you read it and just know it has to be true?

We All Go Through it Oct 23, 2019

Instead of hiding from the conversation of death and dying, isn't a better idea to speak of it on occasion? I don't mean we need to dwell on it. We need to enjoy our precious time here on earth among the living. But it might be healthy for each of us to have a chat from time to time to help ease the inevitable pain we all have and we will leave others with when that time comes.

Positive Role Models Need To Apply Oct 18, 2019

In this episode we talk about how positive role models can help clear the view for teens seeking to make positive choices in their lives. It's always beneficial to have a good example to emulate as they live their best life.

Positive Role Models Need To Apply Oct 18, 2019

In this episode we talk about how positive role models can help clear the view for teens seeking to make positive choices in their lives. It's always beneficial to have a good example to emulate as they live their best life.

Simple Steps to Making Good Choices Oct 16, 2019

In this 5 Minutes Thoughts episode I discuss one Positive Alternative is to make good choices. The focus is for you follow some easy, or maybe not so easy, steps to light your way.

How Do You Stop A Freight Train Oct 11, 2019

According to an article in my recent AARP newsletter, the fastest growing rate for recreational cannabis users are people over 50 years of age. While we are rightfully concerned about how mixed messages are received by our youth when it comes to legalized pot; it seems the message is becoming pretty clear to our senior citizens on this issue.

Let's Light That Candle Oct 09, 2019

In this episode of Positive Alternatives 5 Minute Thoughts we share some thoughts on taking it all in and coming to that best of decisions for you. Even at this stage of life I have to digest the advice but still understand that the call I have to make is 100% my call to make.

The Choice You Make Oct 04, 2019

Before heading into the underage drinking party a choice was made. Before addiction took hold, a choice to begin using took place. And before the defendant showed up in court, clearly drunk, there was a choice to take that first drink, and the next, and the next, and on it goes. There is always a beginning where a choice to believe it's not going to happen to me becomes a lie some mis-guided people tell themselves.

10 Steps to a Great Day Oct 02, 2019

In this episode of 5 Minute Thoughts I give you 10 ways you can turn your bad day into a good day. It starts when you get out of bed and you think, out loud perhaps, of all the great things you get to do versus you have to do. It's all how you look at it.

Reactive Responses Sep 27, 2019

As the villages in Illinois determine if recreational cannabis stores are permitted within their borders, will the opting out of recreational sales actually increase impaired driving? Folks, after all, are Folks.

Education or Legislation Sep 25, 2019

Day after day, year after year the court is overflowing with DUI Misdemeanor cases and lawyers who earn a good living reaching a plea between two interested parties. The path to prevention is education. We have to start young, plant the seed, and watch it grow.

What's The Root Cause of the Problem Sep 20, 2019

Too often, in a world of hustle and bustle, we accept the answer from those in authority. Doctors, lawyers, business leaders, and politicians give us the answers and we can choose to accept that answer or we can dig a bit deeper and use our own grey matter for a better answer.

The Smartest Person In the Room.... Sep 18, 2019

Positive Alternatives 5 Minute Thoughts - If you find yourself in a conference room full of corporate leaders or in a courtroom led by a Judge don't ever sell yourself short. Regardless of the players, don't under-estimate the skill, talent, and smarts you bring to the table. Whatever the task....you got this!

The Lessons of Whiteclay Sep 13, 2019

You can not talk about Whiteclay Nebraska without also including Pine Ridge Reservation. For decades 4 liquor stores in Whiteclay, a town of maybe 12 residents, sold 3.5 million cans of beer a year. Most of the beer was sold to the Oglala Sioux who lived on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. Despite the stores having been closed; the destruction wrought on the people of Pine Ridge will stick around for generations to come.

Dry For A Year

News, News, News Sep 11, 2019

Searching for an idea for the podcast can be as simple as opening the local newspaper (online of course) and sharing observations of man and his drugs.

He Walks Through The Door Sep 06, 2019

In this episode we interview Andre Morgan, a Chicagoland Youth Sports legend. His legacy is foretold by his lineage of both grandparents and parents who showed him the right way to succeed is to trust your own ability to succeed. He truly lives the live of a Positive Alternative. Settle in for a great conversation.

Things to Do In Denver Sep 04, 2019

On a recent trip to Denver I spent some time checking out the legal weed trade. Was the scene as scary as I had been told in all of my meetings? It was not long after driving on the residential streets of the Uptown area that the skunky smell of marijuana wafted my way. I share some old guy observations here. And Yes, I did enter one of the many stores and snooped around. I was fortunate the "budtender" was so forthcoming.

The T Shirt and The Judge Aug 30, 2019

It's probably the better choice to respect the court by respecting yourself first. The young man came before the judge freely expressing his opinion by displaying a derogatory comment on his t-shirt. The Judge is in charge of the courtroom and today the young man found out why respect is the better road to take.

Clear The Clutter Aug 28, 2019

Positive Alternative 5 Minute Thoughts - Change things up, go on vacation, center your thoughts, focus on the now. Whatever works for you to re-energize and get back at it. The world needs you at your best and your are just the person this world needs today and everyday.

Here Comes College Aug 23, 2019

Before I head out for a short vacation, I want to send out my annual comments about HS Seniors heading off to College. Life changes dramatically as the freedoms a young adult enjoys can to quickly become overwhelming. Parents have set the family expectations but time and distance can sometimes blur the message.

Positive Passion Aug 21, 2019

Positive Alternatives 5 Minute Thoughts - Enjoy the Life you deserve to love. Don't wait for it to find you...Go Get It. A passionate approach to living a great life is a true Positive Alternative.

Two Strong Women Aug 16, 2019

From great pain can come great love. In this episode we see how a mom who lost her beloved son to a drunk boater, reached out to a mom who lost the use of her legs to a drunk driver. It's a lesson that gives hope and teaches one and all that love is the best medicine.

Turn Tragedy Into Support

Tactical Texting Triumphs Aug 14, 2019

Positive Alternatives 5 Minute Thoughts - What you say in response to a perceived slight tells more about you than in does about the other person. In this world of texting, be the cooler head.

Class Is In Session Aug 09, 2019

It's the time of year when I try to arrange school talks. The demand on schools time makes it hard for people like me to get some time in their schedule to talk to the teens about making good choices when it comes to alcohol and drugs. To be able to impact even one young mind to make better choices before a problem occurs makes the talk worth every valuable minute.

Riding With Friends Aug 07, 2019

Positive Alternatives 5 Minute Thoughts - In this episode I talk with my good friend Rita Kreslin as we promote the 17th Annual Bikers Take AAIM fundraiser coming August 25th. It should be a great day and it's for a great cause.

2019 Bikers Take AAIM

Danger on the Road Aug 02, 2019

Jennifer Cifaldi, Illinois Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutor, has worked long and hard to keep impaired drivers from endangering our families. With the recent legalization of marijuana in Illinois, Jen is working hard to make sure our officers are prepared to properly identify drug impaired drivers. With all of the drugs available, it's a real challenge to know what's what out there.

There Goes The Neighborhood Jul 31, 2019

Positive Alternatives 5 Minute Thoughts - The Homeowners Association where I live ordered the basketball hoop to come down so down it came. What also came down is the kids outside playing and the energy in our neighborhood that their activity brought. We have been lessened by that short sighted decision. I also discuss the mixed messages from the marijuana crowd. Which way doth the wind blow today?

Listening In To The Council Debate Jul 26, 2019

In this episode I share some of the actual comments I recorded from last week's Naperville City Council discussion on whether or not to sell recreational marijuana in their city. The discussion was open to the public and open to any and all comments. Most of those who showed up opposed the sale of recreational marijuana. The City Council's position was much closer as they voted 5-4 to opt out.

The Court Call Is Not As Demanding Jul 24, 2019

DUI Court is not as busy these days. I've noticed this trend for the past year. I am left to surmise that perhaps ride-sharing businesses are having an impact. A very positive impact. We all benefit from the safer highways and byways.

Normalized Hypocrisy Jul 19, 2019

Outside my door and around the corner there are many, many places to buy alcohol. Grocery stores, gas stations, and numerous restaurants. Alcohol is entrenched in our psyche as normalized. On the discussion of whether or not to allow two businesses to sell recreational weed to adults, suddenly; family values prevailed in my community. They voted to Opt Out.

Will They Buy What is Being Sold? Jul 17, 2019

Positive Alternatives 5 Minute Thoughts - Don't close your mind to opposing opinions. The tricky part of growing your position is when you don't allow yourself to listen to people who just might have something to teach you. If you shut your mind to the possibility, you truly will never know what you might have missed.

Talking to The Brute Jul 12, 2019

Former Professional Wrestler and Current Wrestling Manager, The Russian Brute (George Petraski) takes time to share some pro rasslin' stories with this long time fan of the sport. The Russian Brute is also very giving in that he also spends valuable time promoting reading programs at elementary schools while dressed up in his Russian Brute persona. Did I mention he has a sandwich named after him. You have to listen to find out where you can find it!

TRB Sports

Small Picture Thinking Jul 10, 2019

Positive Alternatives 5 Minute Thoughts - Too many distractions can keep us from being focused on the bigger issues. Don't "tilt at windmills" and miss the chance to work together and positively impact your world. Teens need adults clear headed thinking.

The Jacy Good Interview Jul 05, 2019

In this episode we interview Jacy Good, founder of Hang Up and Drive who shares her tragic and compelling story how she came to be a leading advocate for keeping our roads safe from distracted drivers. Jacy has appeared on Oprah Winfrey, has spoken at the United Nations, and has shared her message over 1100 times in 39 states and 3 countries on this important life changing subject. She is a strong woman and I am honored she took time to speak to me on this podcast.

The Lines of Freedom Jul 03, 2019

Positive Alternatives 5 Minute Thoughts - Freedom Of Choice is a key component of being a free country. It's the lines we draw regarding the freedom of a particular issue, or choice, that creates tough discussions and, at times, conflict.

First Burn, Then Tan? Jun 28, 2019

In this episode I take some time to share how past mistakes have impacted me at this later stage of life. Take it from me. Mistakes can come back to bite you in the back side. Pretty sure it will leave a bruise.

Grow With Care Jun 26, 2019

In this episode of Positive Alternatives 5 Minute Thoughts, I relate how my fondness for gardening helps me to stop and think through my relationships with those young folks I seek to help.

The Rocket Doc Fuels The Pot Discussion Jun 21, 2019

Our Interview with Dr. Charles "Chuck" Nozicka, Division Director of Pediatric Emergency Medicine at Advocate Children's Hospital. We go deep diving into the upcoming challenges teens will face with the state by state legalization of marijuana. The good doctor also shares his learned understanding of how alcohol and drugs negatively impact the still developing teen brain.

14 Years Later - A Time to Reflect Jun 19, 2019

In this Positive Alternative 5 Minute Thoughts I share some thoughts about the very successful Jonathan Petit Collaborative Community Sticker Shock Campaign and wrap things up with some of the good and the not so good relationship with the local media.

The Mom Who Fights Back Jun 14, 2019

Our Interview with Amy Voss, a Buffalo Grove Illinois mom who knows what it is to get knocked down but not out. After her son, Jared, lost a long battle to addiction Amy decided no more. It is a hard battle for this Graceful Warrior but she is a determined Mom and I can think of no stronger weapon than a parent who fights for their, and our, children.

2019 Collaborative Community Sticker Shock Campaign Jun 12, 2019

Eight Drug Free Coalitions, 5 Chicago Area Counties, and One Cause. Working together to remind Parents during the always problematic Graduation Party Season that Adult Supervised Underage Drinking is Not Safe Underage Drinking.

The Fun Is In The Build Jun 07, 2019

Year number two of a growing and important endeavor, a statewide Sticker Shock Campaign. Has it been done before? Yes. But it did not sustain. It's always the sustain of the process that is the big roadblock to continued success. This Dad is on the prowl.

Taken Into Custody Jun 05, 2019

Too often we repeat the name of the offender, I choose not to with "this guy". After violating terms of his probation his bond was increased and he is back in jail trying to figure out his next steps.

Kids At Play May 31, 2019

I love it when the kids get outside and play. Technology has changed behavior in ways both good and bad but the sounds of playing are sounds that make me smile.

Experience is an Earned Asset May 29, 2019

As you get older and wiser (hopefully), use that knowledge to teach your children what you have learned. It's your greatest of all gifts you can pass on.

Toughen Up Buttercup May 24, 2019

Sometimes the Positive Alternative is not only simply to be grateful, but to have the higher focus. The higher focus is not just looking on your own problems, but on how you can positively impact the lives of others. Don't only preach it, get up, get out and practice it! Lend the helping hand.

How Did It Get Away From Us May 22, 2019

The devastation of normalizing alcohol use worldwide is a mistake we need to walk back. Sometimes when you hear a number, a piece of data, you turn your head and your eyes widen. One death every 10 seconds on this planet linked to alcohol? How did we get this far?

Interview with Matt Matkovich and Phil Januszewski - M&P Presentations May 17, 2019

Our interview with Matt Matkovich and Phil Januszewski who work together energizing their audiences with a message of being cool in your own skin and living the life you deserve to love. They are educators by day and motivational speakers by night. And they gave me a pretty sweet shirt so they are also generous to a fault!

M&P Presentations

Expand Your Focus May 15, 2019

Anti-Marijuana groups are lining up to battle commercialized cannabis in Illinois. Is the focus on Marijuana taking away from a bigger problem?

Interview with Reality Teens and How They Helped Impact Change May 10, 2019

Reality, a focused group of teens from DuPage County, share some background on how they worked together to impact legislators, both local and at the state level, in order to improve the health of all of the people in Illinois. The hard grind of the grass roots works they did over the past 2 - 3 years in the Tobacco 21 legislation effort will lead to a bigger and better tomorrow. Sit back, turn it up a bit, and give this episode a listen.

This Work We Do May 08, 2019

Thinking out loud in this episode about speaking at High Schools to teens during this challenging Prom Season, and also about the interview coming out Friday where a young person delivers a message from her Mom that darn near brought me to tears.

You Just Get Up and Do It Again May 03, 2019

It's not easy to stay on point and make the change for the better. You have to be mentally strong to not fall back into dubious habits.

It's A Good Kind Of Tired May 01, 2019

May is Prom Season and that means we will be speaking to a lot of great teens at a lot of great Chicago area High Schools. Toss in some pretty terrific podcast interviews and it looks like we will pretty darn busy.

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