Speaking Engagement Opportunities
Hello Friends of Steered Straight,
Most teens have not heard the scientific data linking youth marijuana use to an increased risk for mental illnesses. I know first-hand because it happened to me and my brother when we were young.
Like Michael De Leon, my approach as a speaker is to weave my very personal stories with the latest research. This message has never been as urgent as it is today because of the ultra-high potency products on the market that carry even more risks than the marijuana I used 40 years ago.
Fox.com and NBC-LA have interviewed me about my message (see below). I have spoken for a wide range of audiences: from Continuing Education for lawyers and fiduciaries to a high school class to Smart Approaches to Marijuana to the Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Providers of New York State to a juvenile detention facility to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
Whoever I am addressing, I adjust the content and length of my presentation. In every instance, I present vital information in a relatable way.
In addition to being a speaker, I co-authored the first and only Young Adult fictional novella which illustrates many of the negative impacts of marijuana, including Cannabis-Induced Psychosis (a diagnosis in the DSM-5). The story is called A Night In Jail.*
A Night In Jail is inspired by my brother’s true life as a homeless drug addict with schizophrenia who went to jail eighteen times. We wrote the book together and adapted it into a short film and a play for the stage.
Speaking Topics
(and short excerpts from previous presentations)
“Cannabis- Induced Psychosis: Why My Brother and I wrote A Night In Jail”
“THC Potency Has Increased. Does This Increase the Risk for Mental Illness?”
“Screening of the 18 min Teen-Led Short Film A Night In Jail**-- Following will be a Scientific Discussion Based on the A Night In Jail Toolkit”
Additional Videos
Fox.com: My Comments to Chuck Schumer About Legalization
NBC-LA: A Night in Jail: A Short Film Aimed at Preventing Homelessness
*Please see over 200 4.5-star reviews on Amazon
**(for authenticity, there is swearing in the film)
I am available to speak to your group live or on Zoom. Please contact Steered Straight to book me.
Thank you,
Heidi A. Swan
