The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), in partnership with the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks, is set to launch the fifth season of its video podcast series Awkward Conversations on September 24, 2025. The program, hosted by actress Jodie Sweetin, will run until March 2026 with 21 weekly episodes streamed on the Elks Drug Awareness Prevention YouTube channel. The series aims to help parents navigate difficult but important conversations with their children about drugs, social pressures, and mental health.

Each episode brings together Sweetin and Amy McCarthy, a clinical social worker from Boston Children’s Hospital, who engage with celebrity parents, role models, and leading experts. Guests this season include Dr. Mayim Bialik, Alec Mapa, Spencer Paysinger, Dr. Christopher Willard, and Dr. Nora Volkow. The conversations cover a broad spectrum of issues, from addiction science and online safety to body image, cultural awareness, and the impact of financial stress on families.

New to Season 5 are animated explainer videos for children aged 6 to 9, paired with parent guides to extend the discussions beyond the screen. This addition is designed to make the initiative more accessible to younger audiences while giving caregivers practical tools to continue the conversation at home. According to DEA and Elks representatives, the expanded format reflects a shared commitment to prevention by meeting families where they are and tailoring resources to their needs.

The collaboration between DEA and the Elks is part of a long-running effort to raise awareness of substance use risks among young people. Since its launch in 2021, Awkward Conversations has reached more than 18 million views, supported by campaigns that previously included educational videos with YouTube creators and a music video project. With over 14 million impressions planned to promote the new season, the initiative underscores the scale of the effort to provide parents and caregivers with reliable, engaging prevention tools in the face of evolving challenges.

Find more from the DEA (USA, September 2025) and visit https://elksdap.org/