The Power of Teen Leaders in a Substance-Free Movement

What if the most effective drug-prevention leaders are the kids themselves? In this episode, hosts Jodie Sweetin and Amy McCarthy sit down with the Elks Drug Awareness Program, the DEA, and the Young Marines to explore how peer-to-peer leadership is changing the culture from “just say no” to knowing. You’ll hear the origin and purpose of Red Ribbon Week, how the DEA’s One Pill Can Kill campaign mobilizes students nationwide, why positive peer norms reduce use, and what parents can do to encourage youth leadership without taking over. We also unpack the reality of vaping and flavored products targeting youth—and practical ways families can respond. Featuring insights from experts Bill Bryan, Colonel Bill Davis, and Sean Fearns, this episode explores how programs like the Elks Drug Awareness Program and the Young Marines are empowering the next generation. Key Moments: 02:20 – Introduction to Substance-Free Movements and Leadership 06:53 – Elks Drug Awareness Program Overview 12:40 – Red Ribbon Week and Its Impact 20:12 – DEA's One Pill Can Kill Campaign 29:07 – The Role of Young Marines in Leadership and Drug Prevention 36:40 – Personal Stories from Young Marine Leaders 47:50 – Final Thoughts on Empowerment and Prevention Sean Fearns is the Chief of Community Outreach and Prevention Support at the DEA since 2015, Sean leads national drug education efforts, collaborates with federal and local organizations, and supports the DEA's Operation Engage, promoting prevention and reducing drug demand. He has been with the DEA since 1998, previously directing the DEA Museum. Col. Bill Davis, USMC (Ret.) is the National Executive Director & CEO of the Young Marines, a 501(c)(3) youth leadership program for ages 8–18 that champions citizenship, service, and a healthy, drug-free lifestyle. He joined the Young Marines in 2015 after serving as founding Commandant of the New Orleans Military & Maritime Academy (2011–2015). A 24-year Marine Corps veteran and Desert Shield/Desert Storm combat veteran, Davis held senior logistics and facilities roles—including oversight of $1B in projects—and served at USNORTHCOM on WMD response. He lives in Northern Virginia with his wife, Brenda, a Young Marines volunteer. Bill Bryan is the National Director of the Elks Drug Awareness Program (DAP), the largest all-volunteer drug prevention initiative in the United States. A 52-year member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE), Bill has been involved with the Elks’ Drug Awareness Program since 1990 and has served as National Director since 2021. Akshaya Krishna is the Division 6 Young Marine of the Year for 2025, serving in her second consecutive term. A recipient of the Distinguished Order of Merit, she has represented the Young Marines nationally as a leader and mentor. Akshaya is dedicated to advancing the program’s mission of drug demand reduction and community service, using her platform to promote awareness, education, and prevention—empowering youth to make positive, healthy choices. Jackson Waters has been a proud member of the Young Marines for nine years, where he’s developed a deep passion for leadership, community service, and drug prevention awareness. Dedicated to making a positive impact, Jackson has taken on numerous leadership roles within the program and actively works to educate his peers about living a healthy, drug-free lifestyle. He continues to share his experiences and perspective to inspire other young people to lead with purpose and integrity. Jodie Sweetin is an actress, author, and advocate best known for her roles on Full House and Fuller House. Her memoir, unSweetined, chronicles her journey through addiction and recovery, fueling her advocacy for substance use awareness. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jodiesweetin/ Supporting Organizations: The Elks: With nearly one million members across 2,000 lodges, the Elks are dedicated to youth drug prevention through their Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program. They have donated over $3.6 billion to various causes, including the creation of the first VA hospital for veterans. Elks Drug Awareness Program Website: https://bit.ly/44SunO6 DEA: Established in 1973, DEA enforces U.S. controlled substance laws nationally and internationally, with offices around the globe. www.dea.gov Resources/Links: Resources and tip sheets with practical strategies for improving school nutrition environments. Website: cdc.gov/healthy-schools/parents/resources.html GetSmartAboutDrugs.com www.getsmartaboutdrugs.com Hidden in Plain Sight Program https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/Hidden%20in%20Plain%20Sight.pdf DEA on Instagram: www.instagram.com/deahq Elks Kid Zone Website: https://bit.ly/3s79Zdt