Speaking Engagement Opportunities

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.

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.

I had the great honor to appear on the final season of Dr. Phil in an episode about marijuana legalization. Fox.com and NBC-LA have interviewed me about my message (see below). I have provided my personal experiences for researchers and legislators at the state level. Locally, I have been appointed to my community's Cannabis Advisory Group. As an instructor, I taught continuing education for lawyers and professional fiduciaries.

On prevention education, I've spoken for a wide range of audiences. Notably: Smart Approaches to Marijuana, Teaching Cannabis Awareness and Prevention Virtual Conference, Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Providers of New York State, California chapters of National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and to Los Padrinos, formerly juvenile detention facility.

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”

https://vimeo.com/546719826

“THC Potency Has Increased. Does This Increase the Risk for Mental Illness?”

https://vimeo.com/532357586

“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”

https://vimeo.com/614031659