The Change We Seek: A Podcast from a Prevention Perspective

In this episode of The Change We Seek, James shares his powerful journey from substance use to long-term recovery. Reflecting on the challenges of growing up surrounded by substance misuse, the role of faith in his recovery, and how he has transformed his life through family, education, and personal growth, his story highlights the importance of hope, support, and second chances, reminding listeners that change is possible and there's always a path toward recovery.

In this episode of The Change We Seek, Austin Persinger from Marshall University's Center of Excellence for Recovery introduces APPalachian Up (APP Up), an innovative, strengths-based prevention program that celebrates Appalachian culture while building confidence, resilience, and community connections.

Learn about the program's promising results with youth, its flexibility for different community settings, and upcoming opportunities for facilitator training.

In this episode of The Change We Seek, Katelyn Fowler from Marshall University's Center of Excellence for Recovery discusses the new Prevention Science Microcredential. Designed for both emerging and experienced prevention professionals, this training opportunity provides foundational knowledge, practical skills, and preparation for prevention specialist certification.

Learn how this professional development opportunity can benefit prevention specialists, educators, counselors, coalition members, and others working to strengthen communities and create lasting positive change.

Learn more: mucenterofexcellence.org

In this episode of The Change We Seek, Katelyn Fowler from the Marshall University's Center of Excellence for Recovery introduces a new, publicly accessible data dashboard designed to support prevention planning and community decision-making across West Virginia. Discover how this innovative resource can help communities turn data into meaningful action and support more informed, effective prevention efforts.

Explore the Data Dashboard: mucenterofexcellence.org

In this episode of The Change We Seek, Jessica Bender from the West Virginia Coalition Against Domestic Violence discusses the importance of domestic violence prevention, survivor support, and community collaboration. To learn more about the coalition and find local resources, visit www.wvcadv.org. 

In this episode, a BridgeValley student talks with a person in long-term recovery about their recovery journey, mental health, and finding hope through community. Recovery services such as "Recovery with Agape" help people rebuild their lives with grace, love, and support. Whether you’re a student, a community member, or someone seeking support, this episode sheds light on real resources and real stories that remind us recovery is possible — and no one has to walk that road alone. Learn more at recoverwithagape.com.

In this episode, a student leader at Bluefield State University opens up about the critical issue of suicide prevention. Sharing personal experiences of loss and struggles with mental health and substance use, our host explores risk factors, warning signs, and the importance of reducing the stigma around mental health care. Sharing community resources like the 988 Lifeline and the Green Bandana Initiative, this episode highlights how all of us can play a role in prevention.

In this episode, a medical student from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine presents a literature review focused on pregnant women in rural America and how they might be able to benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy.

This episode is focused on the challenges and triumphs of recovery. During this podcast we will hear from Jeremy, a person in long term recovery who is a student at Marshall University and  works in recovery and prevention. 

This episode is focused on young adults and prevention. During this podcast, we define prevention science and look at various careers and how prevention can be incorporated into each type of career. We also respond to prevention questions posed on an Instagram poll.