​Freedom from Chemical Dependency: Questions for Mr. Poole

By Kyle Russell '20

​On February 14th, I was able to sit down with Mr. Rodney Poole from FCD. I asked Rodney a few questions, to better get to know this man who has brought so much knowledge and experience to educate Severn’s junior class about drug and alcohol abuse.

Kyle Russell: What stands out most to you about Severn, compared to all of the other schools that you visit?


Mr. Poole:  Let’s see. Well, every school is different.  It’s obvious that the curriculum is challenging.  The school goes back a number of years, and the students seem close.


KR: What was the process like for you to become part of FCD?


RP:  There was a three-part interview process.  Two phones calls and one face-to-face, and then a ten-day training period.  If you didn’t do well in the training then they wouldn’t hire you.   


KR: Where would you being working right now if you were not working for FCD?


RP: I would probably be doing some public speaking in some capacity.   


KR: Does public speaking come easily to you?
RP:  It didn’t initially. It took a lot of practice and preparation.  I always prepare for my presentations.   


KR: What was your life like growing up before you experimented with drugs?


RP: Happy.  I’ll be honest with you, there were [different] levels of happiness. But I never really felt like I fit in to some extent.   


KR: Did you ever have aspirations to play football in college or the NFL?


RP:  For sure.  If I had just held off of weed for just one year then I would have.  I probably could have walked on at NC State.   


KR: How do you compare yourself to Mr. G?


RP: I don’t, really.  We all have our own styles and strengths.  He learns from me and I learn from him.  We both have our strengths.   


KR: Who is your all-time favorite music artist or band?
RP: Oh man!  There are so many.  Ok, you have to put down Rush. Dave Matthews -- their story is amazing.  I could go all day with bands.  I still listen to Metallica.