Jim at the control board, dropping truth bombs during a live Road Radio USA program.

As the summer sun begins to fade and the days grow shorter, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation in the air. It’s the time when school buses hit the roads, classrooms come alive with the chatter of eager students, and parents breathe a collective sigh of relief as their kids return to the routines of the school year. For many, back-to-school season symbolizes new beginnings, opportunities for growth, and the chance to shape the future. It’s also the perfect time to prioritize prevention education.

Road Radio USA is here to help schools across the nation do just that!

Why Prevention Education Matters

Prevention education is the cornerstone of ensuring a brighter, safer future for our youth. It equips students with the knowledge, skills, and resilience to make informed decisions, resist peer pressure, and navigate life’s challenges successfully. Research consistently shows that effective prevention education programs reduce substance abuse, bullying, violence, and other risky behaviors among students.

At Road Radio USA, we understand the significance of prevention education, especially in the context of substance abuse. Our evidence-based interventions are designed to address these critical issues head-on. By booking a Road Radio USA show in your school, you’re not just inviting entertainment; you’re investing in your students’ well-being and their ability to make healthy choices.

The Road Radio USA Difference

Road Radio USA stands out as a beacon of hope and inspiration in the world of prevention education. Our program leverages the power of storytelling, personal testimonials, and engaging content to connect with students on a deep and meaningful level. We recognize that young minds are more likely to absorb valuable lessons when they’re presented in an engaging and relatable format.

Personal Testimonials: Impacting Students’ Lives

One of the key features that sets Road Radio USA apart is our use of personal testimonials. We bring real-life stories of individuals who have faced the consequences of substance abuse into the spotlight. These testimonials are not just cautionary tales; they’re tales of redemption, resilience, and recovery. By hearing from those who have been there, students gain a profound understanding of the real-world impact of their choices.

These personal narratives humanize the issue of addiction and make it relatable. They dispel myths and stereotypes surrounding addicts and addiction. They showcase the importance of seeking help and support when needed. Most importantly, they provide hope – the belief that no matter how challenging life may become, there’s always a path to recovery.

Evidence-Based Interventions

Our prevention education programs are firmly rooted in evidence-based interventions. We don’t just share stories; we equip students with the knowledge and tools to make wise decisions. Our programs are developed in collaboration with experts in the field, ensuring that the information we provide is accurate, up-to-date, and effective.

The Benefits of Booking a Road Radio USA Shows in YOUR School:

• Engagement: Our shows captivate students’ attention through music, storytelling, and relatable content. Engaged students are more receptive to learning.
• Empowerment: We empower students with information, enabling them to make informed choices about their health and well-being.
• Resilience: By sharing stories of resilience and recovery, we inspire students to overcome challenges and face adversity head-on.
• Community: Our programs foster a sense of community within schools, promoting open dialogue about critical issues and encouraging students to support one another.
• Long-Term Impact: The lessons learned from Road Radio USA stay with students long after the show ends. We provide resources and follow-up materials to reinforce prevention education throughout the school year.

The Proactive Prevention Podcast: A Valuable Resource for Schools

In addition to our live shows, Road Radio USA extends its commitment to prevention education through the Proactive Prevention Podcast. This podcast is a valuable resource for schools, parents, and anyone interested in empowering young minds with knowledge and fostering resilience.

Connecting with a Wider Audience

The Proactive Prevention Podcast is more than just an extension of our live shows; it’s a platform that allows us to reach a broader audience. Schools can utilize this resource to complement the lessons taught during our live events. Parents can tune in to gain insights into the challenges their children may face and learn how to initiate meaningful conversations about substance abuse and mental health.

In-Depth Discussions and Expert Insights

The podcast delves deep into critical topics related to prevention education, substance abuse, mental health, and resilience. Each episode features in-depth discussions with experts in the field, individuals who have experienced addiction and recovery firsthand, and professionals who work tirelessly to support those on the path to wellness.

The Power of Real Stories

At the heart of the Proactive Prevention Podcast are the real stories of individuals who have faced addiction, adversity, and challenges head-on. These stories are not just cautionary tales but narratives of strength, hope, and transformation. They emphasize that recovery is possible and that seeking help is a sign of courage, not weakness.

Comprehensive Resources

To further support the educational journey, the Road Radio USA website offers a range of comprehensive resources, including articles, guides, and links to additional support services. Schools can encourage students to explore these resources independently or incorporate them into classroom discussions.

A Holistic Approach to Prevention Education

At Road Radio USA, we believe that prevention education should be holistic and multifaceted. By combining the power of live shows, personal testimonials, and the Proactive Prevention Podcast, we offer schools a comprehensive approach to addressing substance abuse and mental health issues. Together, these resources empower students with the knowledge, tools, and resilience needed to make healthy choices and thrive in today’s world.

Incorporating the Proactive Prevention Podcast into your school’s prevention education efforts is a proactive step toward equipping students with the skills they need to navigate life’s challenges successfully. Together with Road Radio USA’s live shows, it forms a dynamic partnership that can make a lasting impact on the lives of students, helping them build a brighter, healthier, and more resilient future.

As the school year begins anew, make prevention education a top priority. Road Radio USA offers schools a unique opportunity to engage students, empower them with knowledge, and inspire them to make positive choices. By booking a Road Radio USA show in your school, you’re not just investing in a single event; you’re investing in the future of your students.

Our evidence-based interventions, coupled with the power of personal testimonials, create a transformative experience that leaves a lasting impact. Together, we can ensure that this school year is not just about academic growth but also about fostering resilient, informed, and empowered individuals who are ready to face the challenges of the world with confidence.

Take the first step toward a safer, healthier, and more hopeful future by bringing Road Radio USA to your school. Together, we can make prevention education a priority and help students navigate the road to success.

Contact Road Radio USA today to learn more about our programs and how we can partner with your school to make a difference in the lives of your students.

#BackToSchool #PreventionEducation #RoadRadioUSA #EmpoweringYouth #EvidenceBasedInterventions #PersonalTestimonials #ProactivePreventionPodcast #RealStories #Resources

September arrives not only as a transition between summer and autumn but also as a month of profound significance for millions across the United States. It’s a time when the nation comes together to recognize and celebrate National Recovery Month, a month-long observance dedicated to raising awareness about addiction, mental health, and the transformative power of recovery. Amidst the backdrop of changing leaves and cooling temperatures, this observance sheds light on the stories of resilience, strength, and the healing journey undertaken by individuals navigating the path of recovery. 

Road Radio USA stands at the forefront of this movement, as a voice of hope and change, paving the way for a brighter future for those affected by addiction.

The Importance of National Recovery Month

National Recovery Month is a testament to the collective commitment to creating a world free from the grasp of addiction. It’s a time to acknowledge the courage of those who have chosen to step away from the shadows of substance abuse and embrace the transformative journey of recovery. This month, we collectively strive to erase the stigma associated with addiction and mental health challenges, fostering understanding and compassion within communities nationwide.

At its core, National Recovery Month underscores the significance of acknowledging addiction as a disease rather than a moral failing. It emphasizes the critical need for accessible treatment and support, while also highlighting the inspiring stories of individuals who have embarked on the path of recovery. The observance aims to educate, raise awareness, and instill hope in those who may be struggling, showing that recovery is not only possible but achievable through support, perseverance, and the right resources.

Road Radio USA: A Voice for Change

Founded on the principles of education, empowerment, and prevention, Road Radio USA’s mission aligns seamlessly with the objectives of National Recovery Month. With a clear mission to prevent underage drinking and substance abuse, we engage with schools, educators, parents, and students to foster a movement of open dialogue, awareness, and empowered decision making. 

The heart of Road Radio USA lies in our commitment to reaching out to schools, creating platforms for candid conversations, and promoting proactive prevention. The Road Crew and I take to the road, bringing our crucial message directly to schools through live assemblies, engaging students and providing them with the tools they need to make informed decisions about substance abuse. We’ve carefully crafted our program to capture the attention of young minds, inspiring them to become advocates for positive change –  within their friend groups, schools, and communities.

Podcast Power: Proactive Prevention Podcast

In the digital age, the power of storytelling and connection extends beyond physical boundaries. We use our “Proactive Prevention Podcast,” to amplify our message, through a dynamic platform where insightful conversations unfold. We dive into the stories of individuals who have overcome addiction, offer insights from experts, and provide a space for real, unfiltered dialogue about the challenges and triumphs of recovery. Our goal is to break down the walls of silence, offering a lifeline of hope and solidarity to those who may be navigating similar paths.

A Journey Towards Healing

National Recovery Month invites us all to be a part of the movement for change, to champion understanding, and to celebrate the victories achieved by individuals on their journey of recovery. Road Radio USA embodies this spirit through our commitment to prevention education and a genuine desire to uplift and empower individuals and communities. As the program and the observance continue to intersect, we’re creating a powerful force for change—one that dismantles stigma, fosters compassion, and transforms lives.

Throughout September, as the colors of autumn emerge, let us also be reminded of the vibrant hues of recovery and hope. Through Road Radio USA and the shared efforts of countless individuals, we stand united in our commitment to making recovery accessible, understood, and celebrated. Together, we pave the way for a future where addiction is met with empathy, support, and the promise of healing.

At Road Radio USA, we believe that healthy relationships are essential in guiding teenagers towards making smarter choices and leading a healthier life. Building strong connections within family relationships and friendships provides a solid foundation for young individuals to navigate the challenges they face, including the temptations of underage drinking and drug use. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of healthy relationships and provide practical tips for parents and friends to support teens in making informed decisions.

The Power of Family Relationships

Family relationships play a crucial role in shaping a teenager’s values, behaviors, and overall well-being. Strong family bonds built on trust, open communication, and mutual respect provide a supportive environment where teens can feel heard, understood, and valued. By nurturing healthy relationships within the family, parents can effectively influence their teens’ choices and encourage them to avoid risky behaviors.

• Foster open communication: Create a safe space for dialogue within the family. Encourage teens to express their thoughts, concerns, and questions without fear of judgment or punishment. Active listening and validating their emotions will strengthen the parent-teen bond.
• Set clear expectations: Establish clear rules and boundaries regarding substance use. Clearly communicate your family’s stance on underage drinking and drug use, emphasizing the potential risks and consequences. Consistency is key in reinforcing these expectations.
• Be a positive role model: Parents are powerful influencers in their teens’ lives. Demonstrate responsible behavior and healthy coping mechanisms to serve as a positive example. Show them alternative ways to have fun, cope with stress, and build self-esteem without relying on substances.

The Impact of Friendships

Friendships also have a significant influence on a teenager’s choices and behaviors. Peer relationships can either support or challenge healthy decision-making. As a friend, you have the opportunity to positively impact a teen’s life by fostering a supportive and drug-free environment.

• Encourage open conversations: Initiate conversations with your friends about the dangers of underage drinking and drug use. Raise awareness about the consequences and provide accurate information to dispel myths and misconceptions.
• Be a source of support: Be there for your friends in times of stress or peer pressure. Offer encouragement, understanding, and alternative ways to have fun and cope with challenges. Show them that they have a strong support system outside of substances.
• Plan drug-free activities: Suggest and participate in activities that promote a drug-free lifestyle. Engage in hobbies, sports, volunteer work, or creative pursuits together. By offering alternative outlets for fun and fulfillment, you help your friends make smarter choices.
• Healthy relationships, both within the family and among friends, are vital in preventing underage drinking and drug use. By fostering open communication, setting clear expectations, and being positive role models, parents can guide their teens towards a healthier path. Similarly, friends can provide support, encouragement, and drug-free alternatives, reinforcing positive choices. At Road Radio USA, we believe that by nurturing healthy relationships, we empower our youth to make informed decisions, develop resilience, and lead fulfilling lives free from the dangers of substance abuse. Together, let’s prioritize the well-being of our young generation and build a safer and healthier future.

Remember, prevention starts with us – parents, friends, and the community. Let’s join hands and create an environment that supports and uplifts our teens, helping them navigate life’s challenges while making smart choices for a brighter future.

Here are some suggestions for resources that families and friends can utilize to develop happier and healthier relationships with teens:

Books:

• “How to Talk So Teens Will Listen & Listen So Teens Will Talk” by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish
• “Parenting a Teen Girl: A Crash Course on Conflict, Communication, and Connection” by Lucie Hemmen
• “UnSelfie: Why Empathetic Kids Succeed in Our All-About-Me World” by Michele Borba
• “The Connected Parent: Real-Life Strategies for Building Trust and Attachment” by Lisa Qualls and Karyn Purvis

Websites and Online Resources:

• ParentFurther (www.parentfurther.com): Offers articles, tools, and resources for parents to strengthen relationships with their teens.
• Teen Mental Health (teenmentalhealth.org): Provides information, resources, and tools to support teen mental health and build positive relationships.
• Child Mind Institute (childmind.org): Offers resources and articles on various topics related to parenting and supporting mental health in children and teens.

Parenting Programs and Workshops:

• The Incredible Years (incredibleyears.com): Offers evidence-based parenting programs focused on building positive parent-child relationships and effective communication.
• Strengthening Families Program (strengtheningfamiliesprogram.org): Provides workshops and resources for families to enhance family bonding, communication, and resilience.

Counseling and Therapy Services:

• Family therapy: Engaging in family therapy sessions can help improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen family relationships.
• Individual therapy for teens: Professional therapists can provide a safe and supportive space for teens to express their feelings, explore challenges, and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Support Groups and Community Organizations:

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) (nami.org): Offers support groups and resources for families and friends of individuals with mental health challenges, including teens.
• Local community centers and organizations: Many communities have resources and programs aimed at supporting healthy family relationships and providing guidance for parents and friends.
• Remember, seeking help and support is a sign of strength, and these resources can provide valuable insights, strategies, and guidance to help families and friends develop stronger, happier relationships with teens.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50-100 times more potent than morphine. It is primarily used medically to manage severe pain, such as in cancer patients or those undergoing major surgeries. However, illicitly manufactured fentanyl is increasingly being sold on the streets and is responsible for a growing number of overdose deaths. As a parent, it’s important to be aware of the dangers of fentanyl and to take steps to protect your children. 

Here are some key things that all parents should know about fentanyl:

• Fentanyl is extremely potent: Fentanyl is many times more potent than morphine, which means that even a small amount can be deadly. It’s important to be aware that fentanyl can be added to other drugs, including cocaine, heroin, and counterfeit prescription pills, without the user’s knowledge. This can increase the risk of accidental overdose.
• Fentanyl can be found in many different forms: Illicitly manufactured fentanyl can come in several different forms, including pills, powder, and even in a nasal spray. It’s important to be aware that fentanyl can be disguised as other drugs, making it difficult to know what you’re actually consuming.
• Fentanyl is highly addictive: Like other opioids, fentanyl can be highly addictive. Regular use can lead to physical dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and other health problems.
• Fentanyl overdose can be reversed with naloxone: Naloxone is a medication that can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose, including those involving fentanyl. As a parent, it’s important to know how to recognize the signs of an overdose and how to administer naloxone if necessary.
• Open communication with your children is key: Talking to your children about drug use can be uncomfortable, but it’s important to have open and honest communication. As uncomfortable as these conversations may be, it’s still important to have them! Make sure your children know about the dangers of fentanyl and the risks associated with drug use. Encourage them to ask questions and seek help if they’re struggling with addiction or know someone who is.

Overall, fentanyl is a highly dangerous drug that is responsible for an increasing number of overdose deaths. As a parent, it’s important to stay informed about the risks of fentanyl and to have open communication with your children about drug use. By doing so, you can help protect your children and prevent them from becoming another tragic statistic.

Road Radio USA has been Mixing the Music With the Message about Underage Drinking for 30 years now, and the message we share is as important now as it was 30 years ago!  Underage drinking is a continuing – and growing – concern for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals around the world. Drinking at a young age can have serious consequences for physical health, safety, legal status, social life, and academic performance.

Let’s explore why underage drinking is a problem and what can be done to prevent it:

• Health Risks of Underage Drinking: The adolescent brain is still developing, and alcohol can interfere with this process. Drinking at a young age can lead to long-term health problems such as liver damage, brain damage, and addiction. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, underage drinking can also lead to increased risk of developing alcohol use disorder (AUD) later in life.
• Safety Risks of Underage Drinking: Underage drinkers are more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as drunk driving, having unprotected sex, and violence. These behaviors can have serious consequences, including injury, illness, and even death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, alcohol use is a factor in over 4,000 deaths among underage youth each year in the United States alone.
• Legal Consequences of Underage Drinking: In Pennsylvania, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to consume alcohol. Getting caught can result in legal consequences such as fines, community service, and even imprisonment. These consequences can have a lasting impact on a young person’s future. It is important for young people to understand the legal consequences of underage drinking and to make responsible choices about alcohol.
• Social Consequences of Underage Drinking: Underage drinking can damage relationships with family and friends. It can also lead to poor academic performance, which can have long-term consequences for a young person’s future. In addition, underage drinking can lead to social isolation and mental health problems such as anxiety and depression.

So what do we do about it?

Preventing underage drinking requires a collaborative effort between parents, educators, healthcare professionals, and community leaders. Some effective strategies for preventing underage drinking include:

• Providing education and resources: Young people need to understand the risks and consequences of underage drinking. Providing education and resources on responsible alcohol use can help prevent underage drinking.
• Encouraging open communication: Parents, educators, and healthcare professionals should encourage young people to talk openly about alcohol and its effects. Creating a safe space for young people to ask questions and express their concerns can help prevent underage drinking.
• Setting a good example: Adults should model responsible alcohol use by not drinking excessively or driving while intoxicated. This can help prevent underage drinking by demonstrating responsible behavior.
• Enforcing laws and regulations: Governments should enforce laws and regulations regarding underage drinking. This can include fines, community service, and even imprisonment for those caught supplying alcohol to minors.

Underage drinking is a serious problem that can have lasting consequences for young people. By providing education, encouraging open communication, setting a good example, and enforcing laws and regulations, we can work together to prevent underage drinking and create a safer, healthier future for young people.

Since my last blog in April, we’re experiencing a bit of a slow-down, so our schedule has lots of openings for any schools or youth organizations who want to schedule!. Some schools and youth organizations are still restricting live assemblies because of COVID precautions, which is still affecting our performance schedule. Things slow down for us a little bit, historically, in the summer since not many schools are in session, but we did have a handful of live shows over these past months. These presentations included; St. Columba School in Bloomsburg, the Bedford County State Police Camp Cadet, the Troop M Saginaw Camp Cadet in Chester County – 3 hours away from us and it was a night show!  Most recently we performed at Madonna Catholic School in Monongahela, Conn-Area Catholic School in Collinsville, and Central Mountain Middle School in Mill Hall. And of course, let’s not forget about the fantastic time we had presenting virtually for the students at Reach Cyber Charter School.  

Even though we haven’t been traveling to do shows as much, we’ve kept our days busy connecting with other like-minded groups as we work to develop an all new show for high school students, which we hope launch in 2023 and also continue to develop our America250 project. We met with Becky Savage from the 525 Foundation, Carolyn Miele of Saving Lives for Zachary, and Jason Raia and Jeff Scott from the Freedoms Foundation at Gettysburg, just to name a few.  On top of all that, we’ve recorded some material for new podcasts and have been furiously working to have it ready for release later this year. 

And in  case you haven’t noticed, we’ve made some pretty stellar updates to the Road Radio USA website too. Let us know what you think!  And while you’re at it, check us out on social media and give us a follow!

Thanks for helping us make 2022 a great year.  We are thankful for all our sponsors, donors, volunteers, fundraisers, Bingo Family, and all the folks who have come alongside Road Radio USA to support our mission.We have some GREAT things in store for Road Radio USA in 2023, so stay tuned!

March was a decent month for Road Road in spite of the fact we haven’t had many live shows for two years, thanks to COVID. Our last show was at a middle school in York County Pa.  March 2022 was an educational month for us.  Right now we’re learning how best to handle the virtual shows in schools. The St. John Neumann Virtual Show we did this month seemed to go smoothly. 

Thanks to Sandy and the crew at D&S Event Center, fundraising through Road Radio USA Bingo has helped us get through the tough times! We’re going on twenty years now with Road Radio USA bingo and I’ll definitely be writing about that in later blogs.  Speaking of fundraising efforts, the 2022 FCFP Raise the Region was a big success for Road Radio.  We earned just over $6,000, due in large part to Young Industries and John Young. He’s my dad’s former boss and friend.  And there were 20 more great contributions, too!  

The funds we raised will help us develop the new alcohol and other drug prevention show we’ve been planning for quite a long time.  We are finally far enough along in the process to start talking pre-production with our film crew!  We discussed three different shows for three different audiences, touching on topics like preventing underage drinking as well as prescription drug abuse and the dangers of buying drugs off the street. There will, of course, be all kinds of GREAT music in the new programs. It oughta be good!  I’d like to see 45-60 live shows in the years ahead.

It’s been awhile since I’ve written!

It seems like only yesterday that we were performing plenty of live, in-person shows on stages and gym floors at schools all across Pennsylvania.  I remember our last stage performance in March of 2019: We were in York, PA at one of the middle schools and we had just finished our presentation when I was told about COVID-19. 

Needless to say, that put a damper on performing our stage shows!

But Road Radio USA has been mixing the music with the message for almost 30 years now and I won’t give up.  I know our mission and the message I need to bring to youth is critically important! So, through the ongoing and tireless support of my Mom & Dad, many other supporters, friends, and loyal sponsors & fundraisers, and the help of a particularly great woman who’s also a former teacher, conquering the Virtual World became Road Radio’s next big adventure. After a whole lot of help from many, more than a year and a half of time, and plenty of trial and error, we did it! Road Radio USA is now tech-savvy and thriving virtually!

So what have we done? We developed an all new interactive multimedia version of the Road Radio USA show that goes into schools and classrooms virtually through Zoom.  We partnered with a team of professionals to develop an incredible podcast, our Prevention Podcast (episodes will be released soon)!  Oh, and maybe you noticed that our website here is completely new and improved. On top of that, we’ve built a pretty stellar social media presence in the last several months.  You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter, where we’ve been answering questions, sharing interesting information, and connecting with a lot of new friends & supporters. We even have plans to venture into the wild world of TikTok!

I just wish, after all this time, I knew how to manage technology better than I do right now – but I’ve been blessed with people who have patiently and enthusiastically guided me through it all!  The future has definitely passed me by – but I’m getting caught up.

This past year has been another reminder that God always knows what He”s doing – and He knows best!