Written by David and Nic Sheff, 'High' is an educational resource that aims to inform young readers about the realities of drug and alcohol use. The book combines scientific facts with personal experiences, focusing on the impact of substances on the developing brain and the consequences of addiction. It encourages readers to make informed decisions by understanding the effects of drugs and alcohol.
In 'To Raise a Boy', Emma Brown delves into the world of American boyhood, uncovering shocking statistics and stories that highlight the need for change. Through extensive research and interviews, Brown exposes the crisis in young men's emotional and physical health, offering insights into how society can better support boys. The book combines investigative journalism with scientific research to challenge traditional notions of masculinity and promote healthier development for boys.
In *The Deepest Well*, Nadine Burke Harris delves into the profound impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on biological systems and lifelong health. The book combines personal narratives with scientific explanations to highlight the importance of early intervention in preventing long-term health issues. It offers a hopeful perspective on healing and transforming lives affected by childhood trauma.
In 'Drug Use for Grown-Ups', Dr. Carl L. Hart presents a compelling argument that the criminalization of drugs, rather than the drugs themselves, is the primary cause of harm. He advocates for a more humane approach to drug policy, emphasizing the importance of personal freedom and responsible use. Drawing from his extensive research and personal experiences, Hart challenges societal norms and offers a fresh perspective on the role of drugs in adult life.
In this book, Michael Pollan delves into the history of psychedelic drugs, from their rise in the 1960s to their current resurgence in medical research. He combines historical and scientific analysis with personal narratives of his own experiences with psychedelics, such as LSD and psilocybin. The book explores how these substances are being used to treat conditions like depression, addiction, and anxiety, and discusses their potential to revolutionize our understanding of the human mind and consciousness. Pollan's work is a blend of science, memoir, and travel writing, offering a nuanced and engaging look at the therapeutic and spiritual benefits of psychedelics[1][2][4].
In 'Under Pressure: Confronting the Epidemic of Stress and Anxiety in Girls', Dr. Lisa Damour challenges readers to reframe their understanding of stress and anxiety. She argues that stress can be a healthy stimulus for personal growth and that anxiety can play a key role in keeping girls safe. The book explores various facets of girls’ lives, including home life, school pressures, social interactions, and online activities, to identify sources of toxic stress and anxiety. Damour provides actionable steps for parents, educators, and mentors to help girls manage these pressures and maintain emotional well-being.
In 'The Gift of Failure,' Jessica Lahey argues that modern parenting's overprotectiveness can hinder children's development by denying them the opportunity to learn from their mistakes. Lahey, drawing from her own parenting experience and years as an educator, provides practical advice on how parents can step back and allow their children to face failures and learn from them. The book covers topics such as handling homework, report cards, social dynamics, and sports, emphasizing the importance of autonomy-supportive parenting over controlling parenting. Lahey's approach is grounded in scientific research and personal anecdotes, offering a balanced and wise guide for parents, educators, and psychologists[1][3][5].
Jess Lahey's "The Addiction Inoculation" offers a comprehensive guide for parents and educators on preventing substance abuse in children. Drawing on personal experiences and extensive research, Lahey provides practical strategies and insights. The book blends memoir with scientific evidence, making complex information accessible and engaging. It explores the factors contributing to addiction, highlighting both controllable and uncontrollable elements. Ultimately, it empowers readers with tools to support young people's well-being and resilience.
How do we equip kids with the tools they need to avoid substance abuse? How can we identify a teen who is at risk? And what can be done to prevent our young ones from developing dependency issues?
Every parent is haunted by these questions, myself included. To get answers, I did what you do when you host a podcast—I turn to the experts.
Meet Jessica Lahey.
Returning for her second appearance on the show, Jess is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts with a J.D. concentrating on juvenile and education law from the University of North Carolina. She’s an English and writing teacher, a commentator for Vermont Public Radio, and writes about education, parenting, and child welfare for The Atlantic, The Washington Post, and The New York Times.
Best known as the author of the New York Times bestselling book, The Gift of Failure—a non-negotiable must read for every parent and the focus of our first podcast (RRP #282)—Jess also co-hosts the popular #AmWriting podcast alongside fellow podcast alum KJ Dell’Antonia (RRP #396).
But the primary focus of today’s discussion is her hot off the press second book, The Addiction Inoculation: Raising Healthy Kids in a Culture of Dependence.
This is a conversation about how to have those difficult conversations with your kids about alcoholism and drug addiction.
It’s about how to effectively guide our young ones through the perils of substance exploration, dependency, and abuse.
And most of all, it’s about arming parents with invaluable, evidence-based strategies and practical tools helpful in raising, supporting, and educating resilient, addiction-resistant children.
FULL BLOG & SHOW NOTES: bit.ly/richroll593
YouTube: bit.ly/jessicalahey593
As someone who has done battle with the demons of alcoholism, and as a dad of four delicately parenting two teens, this terrain isn’t just a useful lens on developmental psychology, it’s of particular personal pertinence.
Whether or not you’re a parent, chances are there’s at least one young person in your life currently in jeopardy for substance dependence. It’s thus incumbent upon all of us to better understand the nature of that risk—and how to effectively guide the young ones among us towards safe harbor.
May this conversation serve that purpose—because Jess understands the delicate nature of this dynamic better than anyone I know.
Peace + Plants,
Rich
The Rich Roll Podcast 
