The Hidden Dangers of Modern Marijuana: A Deep Dive

In this episode of Clearing the Haze, host Chuck Marty explores the alarming new findings on the health risks associated with modern marijuana use, particularly among individuals under 50.

Emerging research indicates a significantly higher risk of heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, and cardiovascular death among cannabis users. The episode also delves into marijuana's impact on mental health, highlighting its potential connection to schizophrenia and psychosis.

Real-life stories and scientific studies underscore the serious, often overlooked, dangers of marijuana, making a strong case for increased awareness and education on this widely accepted substance.

00:00 Introduction to Modern Marijuana Risks

00:58 Marijuana and Cardiovascular Health

02:47 Real-Life Impact Story: Jake's Heart Attack

03:30 Marijuana and Mental Health

05:13 Seizures and Overdoses: The Unspoken Risks

06:20 Final Thoughts and Precautions

06:55 Conclusion and References

References

• Denver7 News. "Marijuana users under age 50 are six times more likely to have a heart attack, study finds."
• National Institute on Drug Abuse. "Young men at highest risk of schizophrenia linked with cannabis use disorder."
• Healthline. "Cannabis Users Under 50 Are 6 Times More Likely to Have a Heart Attack."

In this episode of 'Clearing the Haze,' host Chuck Marting welcomes guest Joe Reilly from National Drug Screening for an in-depth discussion on the current status and future of oral fluid drug testing. They cover essential updates from the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Health and Human Services (HHS), including the hurdles in certifying labs and adding fentanyl to testing panels. They also discuss the specific advantages of oral fluid testing over urine testing, such as direct observation and shorter detection windows, and address the industry's reluctance to change. Additionally, Joe shares detailed information on comprehensive training programs for collectors and trainers, emphasizing the importance of being prepared ahead of regulatory changes. For those interested, upcoming training events and resources are provided to help professionals stay ahead in the evolving landscape of drug testing.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:53 Current Challenges in Oral Fluid Testing

02:49 Advantages of Oral Fluid Testing

04:06 Employer Hesitation and Cost Considerations

07:52 Collection Sites and Logistics

14:10 Training and Certification for Collectors

23:39 Upcoming Training Sessions and Events

31:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Clearing The Haze podcast, we are re-posting a recent episode of The Language of Leadership podcast, host Chuck Marting  that addresses the common challenges leaders face in finding time for their own growth and development. 

Chuck discusses three key strategies: calendar blocking, regular open-door meetings (both in-person and virtual), and effective delegation. Chuck shares historical and contemporary examples of leaders like Benjamin Franklin, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Bill Gates, Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Mark Benoff, Steve Jobs, and Richard Branson who have successfully implemented these techniques.

 In this episode we also  highlight the insights from the book 'Who Not How' by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy. The episode concludes with practical takeaways for leaders to prioritize personal growth and foster a culture of excellence within their teams.

00:00 Introduction to Leadership Learning Challenges

00:55 Calendar Blocking: A Key Strategy

04:24 Open Door Meetings: Fostering Communication

08:20 Effective Delegation: Finding Your 'Who'

15:51 Implementing Leadership Strategies

17:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Clearing the Haze podcast, host Chuck Marting interviews Ruth Bowdish, a nominee for the NDASA executive board.

Ruth shares her personal journey and background in the drug and alcohol screening industry, highlighting her rise to the role of Managing Director at On-Demand Occupational Medicine. 

She discusses her involvement in advocacy, her passion for addiction awareness, and the vital role of drug testing in ensuring workplace safety. Ruth outlines her vision for NDASA, emphasizing education, outreach, and robust training programs. 

The episode also covers her experiences with advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill and her perspectives on leadership and membership growth within NDASA.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:39 Ruth Bowdish's Background and Career Journey

01:54 Speaking Engagements and Community Involvement

05:15 NDASA Executive Board Nomination and Priorities

10:51 Advocacy and Policy Influence

18:19 Innovation and Technology in Drug Testing

20:36 Leadership and Teamwork

24:36 Empowering Leadership

25:12 The Value of Diverse Perspectives

26:18 Mentorship and Guidance

27:34 Fostering Community and Growth

33:43 The Importance of Drug Testing

35:26 Personal Stories of Impact

39:48 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode of the Clearing the Haze podcast, host Chuck Marting interviews Dean Klassy, a nominee for the executive board of the National Drug & Alcohol Screening Association (NDASA). 

Dean, who has been a prominent figure in the drug and alcohol testing industry for over 35 years, shares his journey from starting a business in 1989 to becoming a leader and educator in the field. He discusses the importance of education, the challenges surrounding federal and state regulations, and his vision for the future of NDASA. 

Dean emphasizes the need for collaboration, continuous learning, and advocacy to enhance the industry's standards and practices.

00:00 Welcome to Clearing the Haze Podcast

00:37 Dean Klassy's Introduction and Career Beginnings

02:13 Building a Family Business in Drug Testing

04:35 Leadership and Industry Contributions

06:59 Retirement and Continued Involvement

15:20 Challenges and Future of Drug Testing

22:56 Advocacy and Policy Influence

28:17 Embracing New Ideas in the Industry

29:29 The Role of Technology and Open-Mindedness

30:36 Leveraging LinkedIn for Industry Education

31:05 Challenges and Opportunities in Technology Adoption

32:14 Teamwork and Leadership in NDASA

33:13 Qualities of Effective Leadership

37:14 Encouraging Committee Participation

50:47 The Importance of Voting and Representation

51:39 Final Thoughts and Acknowledgements

In this episode of the Clearing the Haze podcast, host Chuck Marting interviews Emilee Avery, a nominee for the NDASA Executive Board.

Emilee shares her extensive 20-year experience in the drug and alcohol testing industry, including her roles at Exelon and her personal connection to the industry through her parents.

She discusses her motivations for joining the board, her focus on workplace safety, regulatory compliance, and the importance of training and education for DERs and employers.

Emilee also delves into the challenges posed by evolving marijuana laws, her leadership style, and the role of advocacy and innovation in the industry.

She emphasizes the importance of collaboration and continuous learning in achieving industry goals

.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:27 Emily Avery's Background and Career Journey

02:13 Personal Motivations and Industry Insights

03:36 Professional Roles and Responsibilities

06:04 Challenges and Experiences in Drug Testing

11:33 Future Vision and Priorities for NDASA

20:08 Addressing Industry Challenges and Advocacy

23:51 Navigating Employer Challenges

24:40 The Role of Advocacy in Policy Shaping

26:41 Experiences from Advocacy Day

31:30 Innovation and Technology in Drug Testing

34:03 Leadership and Team Initiatives

39:24 Membership Growth and Engagement

42:05 Final Thoughts and Candidate Message

In this episode of Clearing the Haze, host Chuck Marting interviews Colleen Weinhoff, a nominee for the NDASA Executive Board. 

Colleen shares her extensive background in the drug testing industry, from starting a small business in Boise to managing multiple offices and serving 4,000 clients nationwide. She discusses her experience, vision for NDASA, and the importance of education in drug testing. 

Colleen also highlights her recent advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C., and emphasizes the need for continued education and mentorship within the industry. This insightful interview provides a deeper understanding of Colleen's dedication and leadership qualities, offering valuable perspectives for both current and prospective NDASA members.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:54 Colleen Weinhoff's Background and Journey

03:05 Vision and Priorities for NDASA

06:31 Challenges in the Drug and Alcohol Screening Industry

09:43 Advocacy and Policy Influence

20:09 Leadership and Teamwork

27:42 Member Engagement and Education

30:49 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Clearing the Haze Podcast, host Chuck Marting interviews Samantha Brown , an NDASA executive board nominee.

Samantha shares her extensive background in the drug and alcohol testing industry, starting from her initial involvement in 2009 to her recent endeavors. She discusses her experience in various roles, including managing drug screening offices, compliance, and training.

Samantha introduces her new project, DAT Connections, an online publication for the drug and alcohol industry. She emphasizes the importance of lifting up independent contractors and small businesses and shares her vision for enhancing training and member engagement at NDASA.

Samantha advocates for supporting innovative technology and maintaining strong advocacy in policy making. This episode provides a deep dive into Samantha's passion for making a difference in the industry and her plans for the future if elected to the NDASA executive board.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:36 Samantha Brown's Background and Journey

01:33 Starting a Business in Drug Testing

03:40 Career Progression and Learning Experiences

06:51 Current Endeavors and New Ventures

11:49 Vision for NDASA and Future Goals

19:18 Challenges and Advocacy in the Industry

32:50 Leadership and Member Engagement

41:48 Closing Thoughts and Final Remarks

In this episode of the Clearing the Haze podcast, host Chuck Marting welcomes guest Bill Current to discuss his experiences as a board member of the NDASA organization. 

Bill shares his insights on the challenges and rewards of being on the board, the importance of electing committed and knowledgeable members, and critical issues facing the drug testing industry, such as marijuana legalization and oral fluid testing. 

The discussion highlights the dedication required to serve on the board and the impact of leadership on the future of the industry.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:54 Bill Current's Background and Experience

02:42 Joining the Endesa Board

03:36 Board Member Responsibilities and Insights

06:06 Upcoming Board Elections and Candidate Qualities

12:46 Challenges Facing the Industry

19:30 The Importance of Drug Testing

30:34 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode of the Clearing the Haze podcast, host Chuck Marting welcomes guest Bill Currant to discuss his experiences as a board member of the NDASA organization.

Bill shares his insights on the challenges and rewards of being on the board, the importance of electing committed and knowledgeable members, and critical issues facing the drug testing industry, such as marijuana legalization and oral fluid testing.

The discussion highlights the dedication required to serve on the board and the impact of leadership on the future of the industry.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:54 Bill Currant's Background and Experience

02:42 Joining the Endesa Board

03:36 Board Member Responsibilities and Insights

06:06 Upcoming Board Elections and Candidate Qualities

12:46 Challenges Facing the Industry

19:30 The Importance of Drug Testing

30:34 Final Thoughts and Farewell