Growing Minds and Modern Highs

Impacts of Today's THC, Hemp & Kratom

October 9, 2026, 10:00am - 12:00pm CDT
Virtual via Zoom
Fee: $10 full members; $25 partial members and nonmembers
Continuing Education Hours: 2.0

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Course Description

With the rise of high-potency products like marijuana, THC, hemp, and psilocybin, the risks to youth — including impacts on mental health, brain development, and successful transitions into adulthood — are growing. This session will equip attendees with evidence-based strategies to protect young people from these escalating harms. Participants will learn how to identify emerging risks, understand the unique dangers posed by high-potency products, and use practical tools like motivational interviewing, reflective listening, and informed conversations to effectively safeguard kids.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the dramatic rise in THC potency and the mental health risks associated with today’s ultra-potent THC and psilocybin products.
• Recognize the appeal and accessibility of commercialized cannabis and psychedelic products targeting youth.
• Identify effective prevention, education, and communication strategies to protect young people and promote informed, proactive conversations.

Julie Dreifaldt

Julie Dreifaldt is a subject matter expert and sought-after speaker for One Chance to Grow Up. She speaks nationally to policymakers, regulators, community leaders, parents, trusted adults, youth-serving coalition partners, and school organizations about today’s legal THC and hemp, the impacts on kids, and how communities can generate actionable narratives to create change. Since 2018, Julie has tirelessly advocated for kids and continues to equip parents and trusted adults with tools to talk about today’s THC. Julie has a BA in History and English from Mount Vernon Nazarene University.