The Chicago Department of Public Health kicked off a new season of its Me & Nic Broke Up anti-vaping campaign with a live taping of True Star Medias From the Go podcast, bringing the conversation directly to Chicago teens in a setting built around youth voices, culture and open dialogue.
Recorded in front of a live audience and set to air next month, the episode focused on the health risks of vaping while keeping the tone conversational and accessible. Rather than delivering a lecture, the event created space for young people to hear from public health leaders, ask questions and talk honestly about the pressures surrounding vaping and nicotine use.
During the taping, CDPH representative and West Side native Juan Ortega broke down how vaping, including the use of e-cigarettes and similar devices, can affect a young persons body and mind. He also noted that about 1 in 4 Chicago youth reported vaping in the last 30 days, underscoring why CDPH is continuing to meet teens where they are.
Ortega also pointed to vapings environmental impact, reminding students that the issue extends beyond individual health. Disposable devices, cartridges and batteries can leave behind waste that affects communities long after the vape is used.
The episode also featured Desean Scuba Logan Russell, known for his viral TikTok dance, who encouraged teens to make choices that support their future and find healthier ways to focus their energy. His appearance helped connect the campaigns message to the creative platforms and personalities many young people already know.
A key part of the campaign is the Me & Nic Broke Up pledge, which invites Chicago youth to commit to living vape-free. According to the campaign website, eligible Chicago students who take the pledge can also apply for a $2,000 scholarship as part of their commitment to a nicotine-free future. The pledge form asks students to enter basic contact information, and the optional Im pledging because field gives them a chance to reflect on their reasons for choosing a vape-free life.
The campaign also offers resources for teens, parents, educators and community members, including links to quit support and adult toolkits. CDPH says Me & Nic Broke Up will continue appearing at events, schools and youth programs across the city throughout the summer and into the school year, giving more young people a chance to learn, ask questions and take the pledge in person.
For more information or to take the pledge, visit meandnicbrokeup.com.