In this episode of the Prevention Leaders Podcast, Dave Closson sits down with Dr. Crystal Collier, an expert in neuroscience, prevention research, and therapy, to discuss how brain-based prevention strategies can help young people avoid risky behaviors. Rather than focusing solely on substances, Dr. Collier emphasizes the importance of strengthening executive functioning skills to build resilience, improve decision-making, and create lasting protective factors.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✔️ Why executive functioning skills are critical for prevention✔️ The role of connection and communication in reducing risky behaviors✔️ How parents and educators can use brain-based prevention strategies✔️ Practical ways to reinforce healthy decision-making in kids✔️ The importance of integrating prevention education into schools

Key Takeaways:

• The frontal lobe, responsible for impulse control and decision-making, continues developing until the mid-20s.

  
  



• Strengthening executive functioning skills—such as emotional regulation and abstract reasoning—can reduce the likelihood of substance misuse.

  
  



• Prevention should focus on skill-building rather than scare tactics.

  
  



• Consistent, open conversations at home and in schools lead to better prevention outcomes.

  
  



• Programs like Know Your Neuro provide free, research-based prevention education for parents, educators, and students.

  
  

Resources Mentioned:

🔗 The Neuro Whereabouts Guide by Dr. Crystal Collier – [Available on Amazon]

🔗 Free Prevention Curriculum: Know Your Neuro Program