Laura Stack will speak at the Elmwood Community Center on Oct. 23, with her presentation focused on the danger of high-potency marijuana products for youth and the connection to psychosis.

Submitted

Renowned national speaker Laura Stack, founder and CEO of Johnny’s Ambassadors, will be the guest speaker at a special community event on the dangers of high-potency marijuana products for youth and the connection to psychosis in teens on Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025, from 2-3:30 p.m. at the Elmwood Community Center.

Research shows that teen cannabis use is associated with an increased risk of psychosis – particularly with high-potency products, early initiation, and heavy use. During this presentation, Stack will share her personal story and the scientific research behind her mission to educate parents and teens about the risks of high-potency marijuana use. The one-hour presentation will be followed by a Q&A session.

“Attendees will learn about the harmful effects of THC on adolescent and teen brain development and the connection between adolescent marijuana use and mental illness,” said Gretchen Levitz, West Hartford Prevention Coordinator. “Parents and community members must understand the consequences of cannabis use by teens and what they can do to educate themselves to prevent use. This is a unique opportunity for our community to have Laura Stack in person.”

Stack was best known in the business world by her professional moniker, The Productivity Pro. Her 30-year career as a keynote speaker, bestselling author of eight productivity books, and corporate spokesperson came to a sudden halt on Nov. 20, 2019, when her 19-year-old son, Johnny, died by suicide after becoming psychotic from dabbing high-THC marijuana concentrates.

In response, Stack founded the nonprofit Johnny’s Ambassadors to educate parents and teens about the dangers of today’s high-THC marijuana and its effects on adolescent brain development, mental illness, and suicide.

“Today’s THC products are lab-designed, high-potency, and dangerous for the developing brains of young people,” said Stack. “We must educate ourselves about the dangers of high-THC marijuana, and this seminar is an opportunity for parents and community members to learn more about the issue.”

This  community event  is sponsored by the West Hartford Prevention Partnership, with generous support from a West Hartford community member.

Tickets must be reserved in advance as seating is limited. Registration link

For more information on Johnny’s Ambassadors and their mission to prevent youth marijuana use, visit the website.

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