Cover 2 Resources: Recent Episodes
Cover 2 Resources
The Cover2 Podcast is an ongoing series of interviews with people who are making a difference in the fight against opioid addiction. The Cover2 Podcast seeks to raise awareness and to connect users and their families with resources that can literally save a life. Listen to our most recent episodes below, and please consider donating to support this cause.
In October 2018, the Justice Department's Criminal Division created the Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid (ARPO), Strike Force. This team consists of federal agents, prosecutors, and specialists from different government departments. Together, they combine data analytics and law enforcement to spot dangerous prescription patterns and quickly remove bad actors from the Application Region.
In its early operation, the ARPO Strike Force brought charges against 60 individuals. Combined, those charged wrote 350,000 prescriptions, supplying 24,000 patients with 32 million pills. With their collaboration, the ARPO Strike Force has streamlined several years worth of traditional work, in a matter of months.
Joining us today is Joe Beemsterboer, Sr. Deputy Chief of the Fraud Section of the Department of Justice. Together we discuss the inner workings of this data-driven program that gets results.
Tune in this week for a detailed look at this revolutionary program, dedicated to ending the opioid epidemic as soon as possible.
Last February, I interviewed Evan Ratliff, author of The Mastermind. The book tells the story of how lone programmer Paul La Roux, built an online drug empire responsible for dumping millions of pain pills into the U.S. La Roux enticed hundreds of doctors to take part in his scheme and wasn’t caught until 2012.
During my interview with Ratliff, he speculated on how La Roux’s cooperation with the government to bring down the people in his organization would affect his sentencing.
Last month we finally got our answer, as La Roux went before Judge Ronnie Abrams for sentencing. Today, we revisit our story on The Mastermind and talk with Evan Rattliff about the bizarre twists in the La Roux proceedings.
For more on the Paul Le Roux story, and the fate of the mastermind, join us on this week’s PPT podcast episode.
For the last few months, I’ve been covering COVID-19’s impact on the opioid crisis. With overdoses up 42% in May alone, it’s projected 75,000 additional lives will be lost to alcohol and drug overdose because of the pandemic.
One resource that could help prevent this is a methodology for addiction treatment that has existed for over 45 years but has been relentlessly shunned by the medical establishment.
This unique, non-pharmacological treatment is called Neuroelectric Therapy (NET) and I first learned about it last month, after receiving an email from 1A Productions. They had just released “The Final Fix”, a documentary following 5 victims of long-term OUD as they trial NET, in hopes of reclaiming their lives.
Joining me on this episode of the Cover 2 Podcast is: The CEO of Izaiah House, Mark LaPalme. One of the five participants in the NET treatment study, Robert Capley. Treatment specialist and NET doubter turned believer, Matt LaRocco. And producer of The Final Fix, Norman Stone.
Together, they take me on a deep-dive into Neuroelectric Therapy and the differences between NET and other treatment methods. We also explore why, even after 45 years, NET is still little known.
For answers to these questions and more, join us for this week’s episode of the Cover2 Resources PPT podcast.
Over the last 90 plus days, much has changed in our world. COVID19 has forced many of us to endure unfamiliar hardships and inconveniences. But our most vulnerable populations, such as those struggling with OUD, have been hit particularly hard by the coronavirus.
To better understand the impact of coronavirus on the opioid epidemic, we teamed up with some of the nation’s top opioid epidemic experts and former guests of the podcast: The Co-Director of Opioid Policy Research at Brandeis University, Dr. Andrew Kolodny. New York Times Editorial Writer and Bestselling author of Dopesick, Beth Macy. Former Clinton White House aide, author of American Fix, and recovery advocate, Ryan Hampton.
Together, meeting online for last week’s live webinar, we discussed some of the most pressing questions on the current state of the Opioid Crisis: How has COVID-19 affected those struggling with OUD? How has the pandemic changed the way we treat opioid addiction? What has the struggle against coronavirus taught us about fighting the opioid crisis?
For answers to these questions and more on our conversation, join us for this special episode of the Cover2 Resources PPT Podcast.
In 2018, bestselling author Ryan Hampton spoke with me about his struggles with heroin addiction while working as a White House aide and how he become a national advocate for those in recovery.
We hope you can join us on June 25th for a special live webinar to discuss the pandemic’s impact on the opioid epidemic and the odds of recovery in America today.
Late in 2018, Beth Macy, best selling author of "Dopesick", shared the story of how Virginia became the canary in the coal mine for the opioid epidemic in her 5 part series with me.
We hope you can join us on June 25th for a special event to discuss the pandemic’s impact on the opioid epidemic and the odds of recovery in America today.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is considered the gold standard for treating opioid use disorder. But it doesn’t work for everyone, and for those unresponsive to MAT, the next use of illicit street drugs could be their last.
This month, Staff Sergeant Conor King introduced us to SaferSupply, a program for those who are either not ready for recovery or just unsuccessful with MAT. As a drug investigation expert for the Victoria Police Department of British Columbia, King shares his expertise to break down this game-changing program.
Join us on this week’s episode of the Cover2 Resources PPT Podcast, where we explore the potential impact of pharmaceutical-grade drugs on drug-related crime, homelessness, and overdose deaths.
On May 14th Greg received an email from Elaine, a Montgomery County Maryland Resident. She shared the story of her brother Alan who had struggled with addiction, recovery, and relapse for much of his life.
Less than a month ago, his unexpected death came as a shock to Elaine. But, she was more surprised to learn that Alan had overdosed many times before, and his history of close calls was well known by several friends.
Hoping to stop others from making the same discovery too late, Elaine shares her brother's story on the latest episode of the Cover2 PPT Podcast series.
For her full emotional story, join us on the Cover2 Podcast. If you know someone who’s overdosed, make it your business to tell their family. You might save a life!
In today’s episode of the Cover2, PPT podcast, we continue revisiting some of the People, Places, and Things we’ve profiled in earlier episodes. We’re touching base to see how the Coronavirus has changed the way they’re making a difference in the opioid epidemic.
Today we’re joined by Angie Ferguson, the Executive Director of Drug-Free Clubs of America (DFCA). This student-lead, in-school, prevention program, rewards students who pass drug tests, become card-carrying members and remain drug-free.
We were first introduced to DFCA at a launch rally in Chillicothe, Ohio, back in 2016. There, 1,500 students marched from the gym to the courthouse to show their commitment to being drug-free.
Join us on today’s podcast as returning guest, Angie Ferguson, share how COVID-19 has affected Drug Free Clubs of American and its student leaders.
Three years ago, we profiled AnchorEd, an innovative initiative, developed in Rhode Island. This program enables peer recovery coaches to meet with overdose victims before their release from the hospital.
In March, the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic sent everyone into lockdown. To continue helping people with recovery, these programs had to adapt to the new normal of social distancing.
As we pivot into a new phase of the pandemic, with communities across the country planning to open up, those in recovery will face new, never before seen challenges.
Changes to Ohio TeleHealth guidelines enabled peer recovery coaches to continue connecting with their patients during the lockdown. Brian Bailys, the founder of Thrive Behavioral Health Center, shares how his peer recovery network adapted their services in response to the coronavirus.
Last week, a STAT News article titled “Covid-19 will worsen the opioid overdose crisis if we don’t prepare now,” stated that, “Missing from the national discussion on the coronavirus has been another vulnerable group: patients with opioid use disorder. Despite ongoing public health efforts, the opioid overdose crisis does not appear to be slowing down. The emergency of Covid-19 could worsen it if we do not preemptively develop and implement response plans now.”
As we know all too well, social isolation is a key measure for preventing infection and curbing the spread of the virus. Many patients taking medications to treat their opioid use disorder — methadone or buprenorphine — aren’t able to stay home. Government regulations limit how these medications are prescribed and dispensed, often requiring inpatient treatment.
Here to talk about what’s being done for those in SUD treatment is Dr. Rick Massatti, the State Opioid Treatment Authority at the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS). Dr. Massatti currently oversees the federally licensed opioid treatment programs (OTPs) and has over sixteen years of experience working on substance use and mental health research policies and programs.
As our state and nation pivot to address this crisis and vulnerable population, Dr. Massatti brings his expert understanding to this week’s podcast. Together, we shed light on the COVID-19 and the opioid treatment guidance policies, changing rapidly across the country.
Join us on this week’s podcast for eye-opening insights into COVID-19’s impact on the opioid epidemic and the rapid response policy changes saving lives as the coronavirus pandemic evolves.
In its latest Strategy Report, the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) shared its strategy for building a stronger, healthier, drug-free society. To reach this goal, the ONDCP details three tactics for fighting the opioid epidemic.
First, continue to prevent new substance abusers through education and evidence-based prevention programs. Second, improve access to long-term addiction recovery treatment services. Third, reduce the availability of these drugs in our communities.
By achieving these goals, the ONDCP will dominate the drug environment, reducing future lives lost to substance use.
Today, we're joined by the Director of the ONDCP, Mr. Jim Carroll, the man in charge of executing this strategy. Together, we discuss the highlights of the latest Drug Control Strategy Report.
Join us on the latest episode of the Cover2 Resources Podcast for a deep dive into our nation's plan for fighting the opioid epidemic.
In June 2017, Dr. Belma Andric, Chief Medical Officer of the Health District of Palm Beach County, Florida, joined Greg on the Cover2 podcast. She shared a unique pilot program that started Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) for overdose victims right in the emergency room (ER). Unlike previous MAT addiction programs, the pilot program included 8 days of house calls to deliver medication and monitor patient progress.
The success of that program inspired a new treatment initiative in Palm Beach County, an ER Addiction Stabilization Unit (ASU) specially designed for those struggling with substance use disorder (SUD). Since its inception, the ASU has treated over 350 patients. Similar to regional centers of excellence that address conditions such as heart, stroke, or cancer care, Palm Beach County now has the first center for evidence-based addiction care.
Just two weeks after the ribbon-cutting ceremony officially opening the ASU, Greg met with Dr. Andric and her team. Together, they introduced this ground-breaking program that, through a public-private partnership, leading the way in overdose treatment, life-long addiction care, and reducing the stigma surrounding addiction and addiction treatment.
Join us on this week’s podcast as Dr. Andric and her team share how they helped create the first ASU in Palm Beach County, Florida.
Since 1995, when the FDA approved OxyContin, igniting an opioid crisis, many bad actors have emerged willing to do almost anything to make a buck off the insatiable demand for opioids in our country. But none less known, and more destructive than Paul Le Roux. Born in Zimbabwe, Le Roux was a loner who became an expert software developer. Then, in 2004 he launched what would become the largest network of internet pharmacies in the world, supplying painkillers to millions of Americans each year. At the height of his operation, Le Roux was distributing up to 100 million doses of painkillers, roughly 25 percent of the annual volume of national drug store chains like Rite Aid. While LeRoux stayed largely under the radar, in 2014, he caught the attention of award-winning investigative journalist Evan Ratliff, launching his research into LeRoux’s little-known underworld. Over the next 4 years, Ratliff wrote: “The Mastermind: Drugs. Empire. Murder. Betrayal. The incredible true story of the decade-long quest to bring down Paul Le Roux—the creator of a frighteningly powerful Internet-enabled cartel who merged the ruthlessness of a drug lord with the technological savvy of a Silicon Valley entrepreneur.” Joining us on today’s podcast, Evan Ratliff shares Paul Le Roux’s improbable story and his influence on the opioid epidemic.
Between 2004 and 2011, opioid abuse and dependence among delivering mothers in Ohio grew by 491%. As a consequence, cases of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS), where opioid exposed babies experience acute drug withdrawal following birth, became commonplace. Babies who begin their lives suffering from NAS experience slower than normal development, and can suffer adverse effects from it for years. The Maternal Opiate Medical Supports Plus project (MOMS Plus) was developed to improve care and outcomes for mothers and their unborn babies through wrap-around services, care coordinators, and tailored counseling. The MOMS Plus program, launched in 2017, has already helped over 1,000 mothers get help for SUD and lowered the risk of opioid withdrawal following birth for their babies. Today, Dr. Michael Marcotte and Jennifer Terry from Cincinnati Children's Hospital join Greg to share the highlights of the program.
In 1996, pain became the 5th vital sign in medicine, prompting doctors to rely on opioids for pain treatment. As a result, opioid prescriptions spiked over the next 15 years, causing hundreds of thousands of opioid addictions. While many doctors were educated on opioid prescribing practices, what they didn’t know – and are still learning – were strategies for tapering patients off of these highly addictive drugs. Something Dr. Travis Rieder, a Bioethicist at Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, had to figure out on his own while recovering from a nasty motorcycle accident. Dr. Rieder recounts his experience with opioid dependency in his book, In Pain, and joins us today to share his story of opioid dependence, withdrawal, and recovery. Listen to today’s podcast for a first-hand experience of this medical knowledge deficiency, and what must be done to fill the gaps in pain treatment.
In February of 2019, we interviewed Palm Beach Post reporters Pat Beall and John Pacenti, about the trial of former executives from opioid manufacturer Insys Therapeutics. They’d been accused of racketeering, bribing doctors to prescribe their high-powered opioid fentanyl spray, Subsys, to patients who didn’t need it.
A year later, the Insys executives have finally received sentences of 1 to 5 ½ years in prison. This is the first time big pharma execs have been convicted and sent to prison for racketeering. It’s arguable whether this sentence achieves justice for the 900-plus lives lost to opioid addiction that began with Subsys prescriptions. But, it does send a clear message to the rest of the pharmaceutical industry.
To share their insight into the Insys sentencing, Palm Beach Post reporters, John Pacenti and Pat Beall return to the podcast. Together, we break-down what this case means for the rest of the pharmaceutical industry and the questions that remain.
Last July, Major League Baseball fans were shocked when Tyler Skaggs, a rising star pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels, was found dead in his hotel room. The toxicology report indicated Skaggs had oxycodone, fentanyl and alcohol in his system, causing him to overdose.
The tragic loss of Tyler Skaggs left many people wondering how his drug abuse went undetected by Major League Baseball. But it quickly became a compelling motivator to change their approach to substance use disorder in the workplace.
Last month MLB announced its new drug testing policy, which will include mandatory opioid testing for all players. The current MLB drug program tests players for performance-enhancing drugs like anabolic steroids, and other so-called “drugs of abuse”, including opioids, only if they had “reasonable cause”. The new MLB testing policy shifts way from solely punishing drug abusers, to getting them the help they need, a refreshing change in policy that has never been attempted in professional sports before.
To help us better understand the new MLB drug testing policy, joining us is journalist Jared Diamond of the WSJ. His in-depth reporting on this issue provides an insider’s perspective on MLB’s sweeping changes to their drug testing policy.
In 2006, Purdue Pharma was under fire for falsely advertising the addictiveness of its opioid, OxyContin. Many families believed that handcuffs were the only justifiable punishment, and the Department of Justice (DOJ) seemed to agree.
Yet, somehow Giuliani Partners LLC managed to reach a settlement for Purdue Pharma and it’s top three executives. Effectively telling all of Big Pharma that the deaths of thousands of Americans were just the cost of doing business.
However, in August 2019, The Weekly, a New York Times documentary TV series, released an episode profiling a leaked prosecution memo. The memo detailed that government investigators believed Purdue Pharma knew OxyContin was fueling a rise in addiction and had damning evidence to prove it.
Why did this memo take more than a decade to come to light? Had its contents been exposed, would it have mitigated the opioid crisis? Who was behind the decision to settle with the drug manufacturer responsible for igniting our country’s worst health crisis in history?
We’re joined today by Paul Pelletier, the former Deputy Chief of the DOJ’s Fraud Section of Criminal Division, and by returning guests Dave Aronberg, State Attorney of Palm Beach County, and Chris McGreal, award-winning author of American Overdose, and opioid crisis expert.
Together, we explore what really happened with the proposed indictment of Purdue Pharma and their three top-ranking executives, and the lost opportunity to make them pay.
Tune in to our PPT podcast for an inside perspective on NYT’s leaked prosecution memo, and the many unanswered questions left by the 2006 case against Purdue Pharma.
In 2019 we released 45 new podcasts covering books from best-selling authors such as Dopesick from Beth Macy and American Overdose from Chris McGreal, to important developments such as the MDL and the J&J Oklahoma trial and people making headlines such as Joe Rannazzisi, former head of diversion control from the DEA. As I look back I realize how many amazing people, places and things we were lucky enough to profile on our series in 2019. The one that stood out for me, was episode 250, with Dr. Andrew Kolodny. Dr. Kolodny’ s candid insights into the policy missteps at the FDA that enabled an epidemic to grow out of control for over two decades were a revelation to me and I hope, to our listeners as well. So, as we close out 2019, we’re pleased to re-release an abbreviated version of our interview with Dr. Andrew Kolodny.
Today’s guest, Dr. Andrew Kolodny, is an authority on the opioid epidemic. As a Senior Scientist and, Co-Director of Opioid Policy Research at the Heller School for Social Policy and Management, Dr. Kolodny has a deep-rooted interest in public health.
He began his career working for the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, helping develop and implement multiple programs to improve health and save the lives of New York City citizens. These initiatives included: city-wide buprenorphine programs, life-saving naloxone overdose prevention programs and emergency room-based screenings, and brief interventions and referrals to treatment (SBIRT) programs for alcohol and drug misuse.
Using his expert knowledge and vast experience fighting the opioid epidemic, Dr. Kolodny guides us through the FDA’s missteps that helped fuel our nation’s worst health crisis in history.
Join us on today’s podcast as we uncover the mistakes that helped perpetuate a growing opioid crisis and the missed opportunities to keep it in check.
Ohio has one of the highest opioid overdose death rates in the entire nation. Despite research from the Ohio Opioid Education Alliance revealing that most Ohio parents are aware of this, they still underestimate the risk opioids pose to their children and family.
To counteract this “not my kid” mindset from leading parents to overlook the importance of preventative measures, the Alliance brought it to life through a 2018 public awareness campaign set in the imaginary town of Denial, Ohio.
Last year Greg sat down with the President of the Nationwide Insurance Foundation, Chad Jester, who introduced the program in episode 214 of the Cover2 PPT podcast series.
In today’s podcast, Chad returns to share the success of the program and the plans to spread it throughout Ohio in the coming year.
Join us for today’s podcast where returning guest Chad Jester shares the results of the “Living in denial, Ohio” public awareness campaign.
If you’d like to learn more about the Ohio Opioid Education Alliance or become a member, go to their website: dontliveindenial.org.
For years now, schools across the U.S. have been striving to implement more effective drug abuse prevention and education programs to protect adolescents from alcohol & drug abuse.
However, despite investing millions of dollars into prevention programs such as D.A.R.E and Nancy Reagan’s “just say no” campaign, recent studies have revealed they’ve been largely ineffective.
In fact, some of the programs intended to prevent drug use, have been known to trigger use in teens with certain personality types.
PreVenture, an innovative evidence-based program that identifies at-risk teens through personality-based screening, has been gaining worldwide momentum. Bay Middle School, in Northeast Ohio, began rolling out the PreVenture program during the 2018-2019 school year. Last month, we sat down with the team of educators who introduced the program in Bay Village.
Joining us today to share their experience with PreVenture, is Bay Village Middle School Principal Aaron Ereditario, Bay Middle School Teacher Chris Mullarkey, and former Bay Village High School Principal Jim Cahoon.
Together, we take a deep-dive into how the PreVenture program was selected, rolled out, and what’s in store for the next phase of this ground-breaking prevention program at the Bay Middle School.
Earlier this year, Greg interviewed bestselling author Beth Macy in a series on her book, Dopesick: Dealers, Doctors, and the Drug Company that Addicted America. It’s a compelling account of the opioid epidemic in our country and profiles the over twenty-year history of the opioid crisis as it emerged in the state of Virginia.
Recently, he caught up with Beth to talk about her latest project, Finding Tess, the story of Tess Henry, a young mother in her 20’s who does her best to recover from heroin addiction for her son.
In November, Beth and her producer, Emily Martinez, released an Audible Original podcast series portraying Tess' graphic struggle against heroin addiction in obscure parts of Las Vegas.
Join us for the return of bestselling author of Dopesick, Beth Macy, and Audible Originals producer Emily Martinez, as they introduce us to Finding Tess, their five-part podcast series sharing the last days of a young mother’s life as she battles heroin addiction on the Las Vegas streets.
It’s difficult for a non-addicted person to rationalize the addicted mind, and the societal stigmatism around addiction doesn’t make that any easier. How can they keep making these decisions if they know they’re wrong, and why won’t they make choices that lead to recovery?
The truth is, an addict isn’t in complete control. Like cancer or diabetes, addiction is a disease. In spite of a sound moral compass, a lot is going on in an addict’s brain that drives them to behave badly or make poor choices.
Returning to the Cover2 Resources podcast to help explain the science behind the addicted mind, is Dr. Nicole Labor. Dr. Labor is not only a successful addiction specialist but a former addict herself. She uses this experience to bring a unique perspective to her work and the conversation surrounding addiction. Dr. Labor has spoken at many events, breaking down the biology of addiction in ways a layperson can easily understand.
To empower more families, Dr. Labor's new book, The Addictoholic Deconstructed: An Irreverent Quick and Dirty Education by a Doctor who Says F*ck, a Lot, further explores the science of addiction through her personal experience.
Breaking down the ideas she shares in her book, Nichole takes us through her journey with addiction, providing a personal, and technical perspective, into the science of the addicted mind.
Join us for today’s podcast, with returning guest Dr. Nichole Labor, where we deconstruct the science of addiction.
If you want to grab yourself a copy of "The Addictoholic Deconstructed: An Irreverent Quick and Dirty Education by a Doctor who Says F*ck, a Lot", By Dr. Nichole Labor, click the link here. https://bit.ly/2qEh7is
Four years ago, actor, writer, and Akron Ohio native, Jeremie Campbell, was unaware that the opioid crisis was continuing to ravage his hometown.
Following his high school graduation, the former all-state football player left Akron for Hollywood. In part to pursue his acting career, landing roles in Spartan, Bicycle Dreams, and Dangerous Words from the Fearless, and to escape the tightening grip of opioids on his community.
For a long time, it seemed Jeremie had escaped the epidemic. However, the situation got personal when he began losing his boyhood friends to opioid overdoes.
Today, Jeremie’s back to develop and film his latest screenplay. A fictional story, inspired by his life experiences, about the very real impact of the opioid crisis on four friends from Akron, Ohio.
Join us for today’s podcast, with special guest Jeremie Campbell, as he shares his dream to put Akron on the cinematic map, and use his voice to bring hope to the voiceless.
If you want to get involved with this project, stay tuned to Mdifilm.com and email Video & Photography Company, Back To One Productions, at backtooneprods@gmail.com.
In August, a closely watched Oklahoma opioid trial concluded. Johnson & Johnson was found guilty of deceptive marketing practices and public nuisance, the judge awarded the state $572 Million to cover the first year of abatement.
However, the judge later announced he had made a $107 million miscalculation. Instead of $572 million, the amount awarded to Oklahoma was actually $465 Million.
The miscalculation brought an outcry among Oklahoma state attorneys, mental health specialists, and addiction experts. All claim that the true cost of the opioid crisis is much higher than $572 million, and will take at least 20 years to resolve.
After this surprising announcement, we decided to try to answer the question: What are the latest cost estimates of the opioid crisis, and how do they correlate to the judgment awarded in Oklahoma? Our guests on today’s episode, Dale Hall and Dr. Christopher Ruhm, share the results of their research.
Together, they detail the massive financial burden Big Pharma has placed on our country and break down the Judge’s award against Johnson & Johnson.
Join us for today’s podcast with Dale Hall and Dr. Christopher Ruhm, to hear the true cost of the opioid crisis.
You wouldn’t pay for something without knowing what you were getting, but all too often, our tax dollars are spent on programs without accountability for results. With the new ResultsOhio initiative, led by state Treasurer Robert Sprague, Ohio is looking for data-backed solutions to guide its funding decisions for social and public health programs.
As Ohio’s Treasurer of State, Robert Sprague manages the state’s $20 billion investment and $10 billion debt portfolios, collects and deposits all state revenues, and oversees custodial assets.
Taking a collaborative approach to government-funded recovery, ResultsOhio focuses on collecting the best treatment ideas and supporting what gets results. Organizations are invited to pitch their best recovery projects for a chance to earn government funding. However, they must prove their project will get results.
With the ResultsOhio initiative, organizations of every size, background, and sector, will have the chance to make meaningful change for those on the road to recovery.
Join us for today’s podcast, where Treasurer Robert Sprague returns to share his innovative, “pay for success” recovery program, guided by data-driven results.
While still in the process of creating a more detailed application, anybody that interested in more information can follow the link here, or contact Results Ohio at (614) 466-8557 or ResultsOHIO@tos.ohio.gov .
On October 21st, just as a landmark opioid trial was about to begin, a $260 million settlement was reached.
The deal negotiated between three major opioid distributors, one opioid manufacturer, and Cuyahoga and Summit Country Ohio, resulted in a combination of cash payouts, and donations of addiction treatments.
The first of its kind, this case could become a settlement model for thousands of similar cases against the pharmaceutical industry.
The details of the settlement are extremely dense. To help break them down, Andrew Pollis, Case Western Reserve professor of Law and friend of the podcast, is joining us to share his reaction to this week’s settlement news.
Finally, we conclude today’s podcast by revisiting our op-ed collaboration about honoring the lives lost in the opioid epidemic with a settlement providing the best chance at long-term recovery for those in need.
Join us on today’s podcast, as Andrew Pollis returns to share his insight into one of the opioid epidemics' most influential cases.
Last week, in part 1 of our series on harm reduction, Dr. Jeffrey Singer talked with us about the current state of Naloxone in America, and how to get it to those in need.
Today, in the 2nd part of this series, we explore Dr. Singer’s argument against the opioid prescribing limits that have been implemented by many states as a means to slow the opioid epidemic.
With more prescribing leniency, a nonprofit group's bid to open a medically supervised drug injection site in Philadelphia could be the first of many alternative treatment methods. . . . On April 6th, 2020, Dr. Springer will debate author Sam Quinones on the premise of his bestselling book “Dreamland: The True Tale of America’s Opioid Epidemic”. Join us next time as we continue our conversation with Dr. Singer and Preview his faceoff with Mr. Quinones.
As a regular listener of our podcast, you know that Naloxone can revive an unconscious overdose victim, and stabilize them until proper medical help arrives.
130 people die in our country every day from an opioid overdose, and many deaths could be prevented if Naloxone were more readily available. While first responders carry the life-saving drug, it’s not always possible for them to make it to overdose victims in time to save them.
So, how can we get Naloxone to those who need it most? Many leaders, including the US Surgeon General, believe the answer lies in making Naloxone more readily available in our communities.
In today’s podcast, we’ll examine the hurdles that stand in the way of making Naloxone ubiquitous in our communities and what’s being done to remove those hurdles.
We’re excited to welcome Dr. Jeffrey Singer to lead our discussion. Dr. Singer is a Senior Fellow at the Cato Institute, the founder of Valley Surgical Clinics, and an expert on US Naloxone policy.
This past August, we started our two-part series covering the public release of the ARCOS data, the DEA’s virtual roadmap to the opioid epidemic. Today, we finish that coverage with Washington Post Investigative Reporter Scott Higham.
Scott is a Pulitzer Prize-winning member of The Post's investigations unit. Since joining The Post in 2000, he’s examined conflicts of interest on Capitol Hill, the origins of the opioid epidemic, and much more.
With his expertise, Scott guides us through an in-depth look at the ARCOS data. We discuss what communities were hit the hardest, how this data was hidden from the public, and the people you never knew were involved.
With so much information it can be difficult to pinpoint who’s responsible. Scott provides some much-needed clarity, but ultimately, only you can decide.
Join us on today’s Podcast we breakdown the ARCOS data, the fight to get it released, and what it means for America.
Last time on the Cover2 Podcast, David Siegel, the CEO of Westgate Resorts, shared how the opioid epidemic changed his family forever when it took the life of his daughter Victoria.
With a new purpose, David decided to tackle the pandemic head-on, meeting with several of our nation’s leaders responsible for solving the crisis. He quickly learned they weren’t close enough to the issue to make any real change. Shifting tactics, David took to traveling the country. He met with people struggling with addiction, and others in recovery, learning as much as he could about the epidemic from the front lines. He quickly became an expert in the field and took his fight to Congress, aiming to make rapid, meaningful change.
In part two of this two-part series, David shares the story of what happened after he testified before congress. As you’ll hear, it didn’t take long for things to begin happening.
Guided by an unparalleled sense of urgency, David’s mission to stop kids from using drugs before they start, took shape in less than a week.
Join us for the conclusion of David Siegel’s story, as he shares his vision for a new, national prevention program he and his team will officially launch in Las Vegas Next Month.
To learn how you can become a part of that change, visit the Victoria Siegel Foundation’s website. There you can find information on David Siegel’s new National prevention program, Victory Clubs, and it’s launch at his Gala at the Westgate Resort in Las Vegas on October 25th.
Since we began this podcast series three and a half years ago, we’ve met some amazing people doing incredible work, each making a difference in the opioid epidemic in their own way. Today’s guest is no exception. What sets him apart is the scope of his latest initiative and his sense of urgency in getting it done.
David Siegel is the founder and CEO of West Gate Resorts, the largest timeshare business in the world. He and his family were featured in a reality show as they began building a 90,000 square foot home in Orlando Florida, just as the real estate market crashed. But nothing could prepare him for the impact it would have on his family, and oldest daughter Victoria.
After losing Victoria to a drug overdose, David gave up running the day-to-day operations of his company, to dedicate his life to fighting the opioid crisis. He quickly learned that some of our leaders responsible for addressing this epidemic weren’t close enough to the issue to make any real change.
David took to traveling the country, meeting with those struggling with addiction and people in recovery, to learn about the opioid epidemic from the front lines. He quickly became an expert in the field, ready to take the fight to Congress and make rapid, meaningful change.
Join us for part one of our two-part series for David Siegel’s story and how his impact on the opioid epidemic can be felt throughout our country.
This Summer there’s been a great deal of news on the opioid lawsuit in Oklahoma and the MDL here in Cleveland.
We’ve heard how communities and native tribes thought the country have suffered at the hands of the pharmaceutical industry, and now with the ruling against J&J in the Oklahoma trial for $572M and Purdue Pharma offering to settle for $12 Billion giving up their company, it appears it’s time to pay the piper.
How that money will be spent is still unclear. We’ve been extremely fortunate to have met with many different voices in the opioid epidemic community. Thanks to their insight we thought we’d weigh-in on the debate for the best use of the settlement money.
We didn’t just stake out claim on opinion, however. We made sure to do the research and calculations necessary for the best result. Of course, we couldn’t accomplish this on our own so we reached out to some of our featured guests for help.
Together, with addiction treatment specialist Dr. Stephen Loyd, of Mountain Home Veterans Administration Medical Center, recovery expert Tom Stuber, President and CEO of Lorain County Alcohol and Drug Abuse Services, along with feedback from Center on Addiction Director of Health Law and Policy, Lindsey Vuolo, we collaborated on an op-ed published in USA Today, this September.
Join us, as we cover our op-ed, the inspiration behind it, the creative process behind it, and our take on the best use for the 12 billion won in the Oklahoma settlement.
First Responders have 6 minutes to make it to an overdose victim and begin administering life-saving Narcan. Sadly, that’s not always possible. The Community of First Responders Initiative is about making Narcan available in public spaces and linking Narcan Carriers with overdose victims while they wait for emergency responders to arrive.
Each year on August 31st International Overdose Awareness Day is held to remember those lost to overdose deaths.
Today, on the eve of the 2019 Overdose Awareness day, we’re delighted to release our CFR introduction video.
A special thanks to our International visitors from Morocco, Mustafa and Samia and their entire team at Artcoustic Creative Studios. They generously donated their time and expertise to produce an exceptional explainer video to help promote CFR in communities across the country, saving lives with this innovative non-profit program.
The following 3-minute track is the CFR video in its entirety. To watch it, go to www.CRF.HELP/INTRO.
This summer, City of Green Mayor Gerard Neugebauer partnered with the Summit County Department of Health and Cover2 Resources to implement the country’s first CFR program. Implementation is a three-step process.
Step 1. Installing stationary NaloxBox units in hotels along the Interstate High way and the Akron Canton Airport.
Step 2. Training volunteers to administer Narcan to overdose victims, registering trained volunteers as Narcan Carriers, and distributing the life-saving drug to CFR members for free.
Step 3. Registering Narcan Carriers and NaloxBoxes in the NaloxoFind app to create a network of Narcan and first responders equipped to administer aid within a two-mile radius of an overdose.
To celebrate our progress, I invite you to share this podcast and video on social media, introduce as many people as you can to this program, and join us for the Barberton Ohio Labor Day Parade Monday, September 2nd. We’ll be there driving an enormous army truck with the Teamsters Local 21 and Travis Bornstein. Come out and Join Us at 16th Street Southwest, Barberton, OH. at 9:30 AM.
Everyone has a role to play, so please, join the fight today and together we can save lives.
On July 15th, DEA data covering 2006 to 2012 American opioid sales, was released to the public. The ARCOS data revealed the distribution path of every oxycodone and hydrocodone pill sold in America. A trail of opioids from manufacturers to distributors, to pharmacies, to patients. Undeniable evidence for their responsibility for the opioid crisis.
Big Pharma didn’t hand this “smoking gun” for the opioid epidemic over easily. It wasn’t until the Charleston Gazette-Mail, and Washington Post prevailed in a fierce legal battle that ARCOS data was released. However, this was just one fight in a struggle that began long before knowledge of this crucial evidence existed.
In part one of this two-part series covering the history of the ARCOS data, you’ll learn how an underdog journalist’s relentless pursuit of the truth succeeded, despite insurmountable odds.
Our story begins with Patrick McGinley, and Suzanne Weise, lawyers and Professors of Law at West Virginia College of Law. Hired to help investigative journalist Eric Eyre gain access to DEA and Big Pharma court records, they’ve joined us to share their role in the fight against the opioid epidemic.
Listen to today’s podcast for part one of our journey into the history of the ARCOS data. You'll learn how it was finally released, and why the DEA, Justice Department, and Big Pharma tried to hide this information from the public.
Remember to tune in next week for part two, where we interview Washington Post Investigative Journalist Scott Higham. He shares his account of the battle over the ARCOS data and what we have learned from their analysis of a 380 million record database.
Today’s guest, Dr. Andrew Kolodny, is an authority on the opioid epidemic.
As a Senior Scientist and, Co-Director of Opioid Policy Research at the Heller School for Social Policy and Management, Dr. Kolodny has a deep-rooted interest in public health.
He began his career working for the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, helping develop and implement multiple programs to improve health and save the lives of New York City citizens.
These initiatives included: city-wide buprenorphine programs, life-saving naloxone overdose prevention programs and emergency room-based screenings, and brief interventions and referrals to treatment (SBIRT) programs for alcohol and drug misuse.
Using his expert knowledge and vast experience fighting the opioid epidemic, Dr. Kolodny guides us through the FDA’s missteps that helped fuel our nation’s worst health crisis in history.
Join us on today’s podcast as we uncover the mistakes that helped perpetuate a growing opioid crisis and the missed opportunities to keep it in check.
While many people in power ignored the mounting evidence of the Opioid Crisis, one leader refused to turn a blind eye.
In 2009, fresh from seven years as NYC’s health commissioner, Dr. Tom Frieden was appointed a director of the Center for Disease Control (CDC) by president Obama.
Dr. Frieden immediately got to work and started by wading through eight-hundred-pages of Health Statistics Us. To say he was stunned by what he found is an understatement.
The number of lives lost at the hands of opioids was comparable to that of AIDS in Africa, the 1918 influenza pandemic, or a war.
Fifteen thousand people died from prescription painkiller overdoses in 2010 alone, and enough narcotics were prescribed to give every adult in America over a month’s worth of pills.
One thing was clear. There weren’t just a few careless people dying of overdoses. America was facing an epidemic, and big pharma was pulling the strings.
Today, Dr. Frieden joins us to share his insights from his watch as Director of the CDC and his perspective on the state of the opioid epidemic today.
For the full story of America’s first real stand against the opioid epidemic, from the first leader to get it right, listen to today’s podcast.
About 21 million Americans struggle with addiction every day, yet only 10 percent receive treatment. While that percentage is unbelievably low, the reality is that traditional methods of aid are inaccessible for many people, even if addicts are ready for treatment.
Fortunately, many organizations recognize this issue and are creating paths to make treatment more accessible. Two innovative programs that are literally taking treatment to the streets are Boston Massachusetts’ Care ZONE, an on-wheels overdose treatment facility, and New Jersey’s Mobile Intensive Care Unit (MICU), paramedics equipped with lifesaving Suboxone.
To guide us through these innovative programs is returning guest Dr. Jessie Gaeta, the Chief Medical Officer for the Boston Healthcare for the Homeless Program, and Dr. Shereef Elnahal, Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Health.
We first met Dr. Gaeta 3 years ago, when we discussed her Supportive Place for Observation and Treatment (SPOT) program. Today, she shares her insight into her latest project, Care ZONE, a mobile treatment facility helping to bring addiction treatment to those unable to visit treatment centers.
Furthermore, Dr. Shereef Elnahal discusses the progress the MICU has made by adding of the gold-standard of opioid addiction treatment drugs, Suboxone (buprenorphine and naloxone), to their overdose recovery arsenal.
Given these success stories, many people have argued that it’s time to relax our tight regulations on Suboxone prescriptions, and remove obstacles for recovery. In the meantime, programs like Boston’s Care ZONE and the New Jersey MICU paramedics, prove that outside-the-box solutions are crucial to progressing against the .
For the full details of these revolutionary addiction treatment programs, listen to today’s podcast, and be sure to let us know what programs are making a difference in your home town, down in the comments.
As negative press continued to increase for Purdue Pharma and the opioid epidemic, their market in the US began to dwindle. Prescriptions for OxyContin fell more than 40% since 2010, equating to billions lost revenue.
The company’s owners, the Sackler Family, started pursuing a new strategy. Go global through their international company Mundipharma, and put the pain killer that set off the US opioid crisis into medicine cabinets around the world.”
On May 22 of this year, Congresswoman Katherine Clark and Congressman Hal Rodgers released a report titled, Corrupting Influence – Purdue and the World Health Organization. This report exposed the dangerous opioid manufacturer’s influence on the WHO, and the potential jeopardy they present to foreign nations and developing countries.
Today, we’re joined by Guardian reporter and bestselling author of American Overdose, Chris McGreal, and Daily Caller Journalist, Evie Fordham. Together we discuss this report, its impact on the World Health Organization, and Purdue Pharma’s strategy to breach international markets at the cost of making opioid crisis a global epidemic.
We’ll frame today’s episode by revisiting an interview from 2 years ago with LA Times Journalist, Harriett Ryan on an article she wrote titled “OxyContin goes global – We’re only just getting started”.
Join us on today’s podcast for an in depth look at Purdue Pharma’s influence over the WHO and its attempts to spread OxyContin worldwide
In June of 2016, we sat down with Dr. Tom Gilson, the nationally known medical examiner from Cuyahoga County, Ohio. Hoping it might inform and help others, Dr. Gilson reviewed Sam McNeil’s report from the medical examiner of Palm Beach County.
Today, we revisit that discussion and uncover how some communities, such as the Baltimore Department of Health, are studying overdose victims to discover new prevention strategies to impede the opioid epidemic.
Also joining us today is Brittney Spencer, the Overdose Fatality Review (OFR) Coordinator for the Maryland Department of Health. Ms. Spencer and her team have been fighting the opioid epidemic since 2014, researching the autopsy reports, treatment admission reports, police reports, and medical records of overdose victims to identify missed opportunities for prevention.
This research helps the OFR collaborate with stakeholders to develop new programs for overdose prevention. These programs save lives and prevent substance use disorder in the future.
The OFR team has learned much from studying the opioid epidemic’s effect on their community. Through their efforts, this one team from Baltimore provides the framework for strategies and programs such as Levels of Care, EMS Leave Behind, and LEAD. Together, these resources provide the necessary response tools to influence and impact the worst health crisis in our country’s history.
Listen to today’s podcast for a detailed breakdown of Maryland’s impact against the opioid crisis, with Brittney Spencer.
In our three-part series with American Overdose author, Chris McGreal, we took an in-depth look at some of the policies and practices of the FDA that helped lead to our nation’s worst health crisis in history.
During the series, I spoke with the former chair of the FDA advisory committee, who’s role is to review and advise on drugs under consideration for approval by the FDA. I was surprised by his responses to my questions, rejecting the notion that mistakes were made, despite the number of deaths the opioids approved during his tenure caused. My take away from this interview was that the FDA is stuck in an inflexible mindset, and has made no attempt to rectify the impact the opioid crisis has had on our country over the last twenty years.
Unsettled, I decided to dig a little deeper to find out if my impressions were representative of the today’s FDA. To help me answer that question is Dr. Raeford Brown, who for the last five years has been the chair of the FDA’s anesthetic and analgesic drug products advisory committee.
Listen to today’s podcast for insight into the FDA’s policies and practices from the inside, with Dr. Raeford Brown.
When award-winning author Chris McGreal sat down to write American Overdose: The Opioid Tragedy in Three Acts, he wanted to answer two questions. The first: How could the opioid crisis go on for nearly 20 years before it reached public awareness? The second: Why did the opioid crisis happen in America, and nowhere else in the world? We uncover the answers to these questions and more, as we conclude our series on American Overdose.
Joining us today alongside author Chris McGreal are Congressman Hal Rodgers, and former director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Dr. Tom Frieden. Congressmen Rogers introduces us to Operation UNITE, Kentucky’s response to the opioid epidemic and Dr. Frieden reveals how the CDC sounded the alarm over the opioid crisis, while the rest of our government neglected to act.
What does this mean for the future of America, it’s policies and politics? How can we reform the medical industry? Is the end of the opioid crisis in sight?
Listen to today’s podcast for the comprehensive conclusion of our American Overdose discussion, with bestselling author Chris McGreal.
To many, how and why the opioid epidemic came about remains a mystery. How did these dangerous and addictive substances earn approval for distribution? Why were these drugs approved if they were clearly so addictive and dangerous? Why has our legal system taken so long to react to a crisis that began in the early 2000s? We continue uncovering the answers to those questions in the second episode in our three-part series on American Overdose: The Opioid Tragedy in Three Acts, with award-winning author Chris McGreal. Together, we uncover the extent of the pharmaceutical industry’s influence over the FDA, the drug approval process, and Congress. With special commentary from the former chair of the FDA advisory committee, Dr. Nathaniel Katz, former California Congresswoman Mary Bono, the former attorney general of West Virginia Judge Darrell McGraw, and Kentucky Congressman Hal Rogers, we walkthrough congress’ early actions against deceptive pharmaceutical practices, as our nation’s worst health crisis emerged. Listen to today’s podcast for Part 2 of our American Overdose discussion, with bestselling author Chris McGreal.
The Opioid epidemic is the deadliest drug crisis in American history, claiming over 350,000 lives since 1999. While many people have an idea of what caused the opioid crisis, few understand the why and how.
For example, how did a tragedy that started 20 years ago, only start gaining attention in 2017? How was the greatest drug crisis in American history allowed to go virtually unchecked for nearly two decades? Why is there still no end in sight?
To help answer these questions and more, today we’re joined by the award-winning author of American Overdose: The Opioid Tragedy in Three Acts, Chris McGreal.
Together, in our first episode of a three-part series, we discuss the origin of the opioid epidemic, the negligent policies that allowed Big Pharma to profit from the suffering of patients, and new evidence on the FDA’s complicity in driving the mass over-prescription of opioids. Listen to today’s podcast for Part 1 of our American Overdose discussion, with bestselling author Chris McGreal.
To follow along with our discussion, you can pick up Chris’ book American Overdose: The Opioid Tragedy in Three Acts here.
Many people that view addiction from the outside don’t understand the struggle addicts go through and can’t appreciate how addiction impacts their families. To educate people from that perspective, the new documentary, Heroin’s Grip, features the families of Frederick County Maryland, whose lives were transformed by addiction and the opioid epidemic.
Joining us today for a prerelease, behind the scenes, look at his film, is Heroin’s Grip director Conrad Weaver. A filmmaker by trade, Conrad was touched by the stories he experienced surrounding the opioid crisis in his community and was inspired to act. His documentary exposes the real, emotional stories, of several families whose lives have been forever altered by opioid addiction.
Due to cultural stigma, we often push away people who are struggling with addiction when we should be offering support. Conrad hopes to use Heroin’s Grip as an educational tool and a rallying cry for communities across the country, that addiction isn’t someone else’s problem, it’s our problem.
On May7th, a screening of Heroin’s Grip will be held in Akron Ohio at The Chapel.
To get in touch with Conrad and find out how you can bring a screening Heroin’s Grip to your community, click here. Listen to today’s podcast for a behind the scenes look at Heroin’s Grip, with Director Conrad Weaver.
Listen to today’s podcast for a behind the scenes look at Heroin’s Grip, with Director Conrad Weaver.
In March of 2019 the Center on Addiction, a nonprofit organization committed to supporting families struggling with substance use and addiction, published Uncovering Coverage Gaps II: A Review of Addiction Benefits in ACA Plans. A follow up to their 2016 report of the same name, this new report reviews and compares the addiction benefits in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans for all 50 states.
This most recent report was an eye-opener, both for what coverage was available through the state plans, but even more so, what was omitted.
Here to further our understanding of the 2019 report, is the Center on Addiction health law and policy director, Lindsey Vuolo. Lindsey is the research lead on the adequacy of SUD benefits offered in the ACA health plans, an expert on federal and state responses to the opioid crisis, and author of (Ending the Opioid Crisis: A Practical Guide for State Policymakers).
Drawing on her extensive experience in legal, regulatory, and policy work related to addiction prevention and treatment, Lindsey shares her discoveries of the essential coverage gaps in the ACA plans nationwide, and provides her insights regarding the current state of addiction health care coverage and policy in America.
Listen to today’s podcast for an extra-informative episode on your state’s addiction coverage, featuring Lindsey Vuolo.
The opioid epidemic has taken a deep toll on families throughout Appalachia. In Tennessee alone, over 1,631 people, (more than five per day), died from a drug overdose in 2016. To respond to such a massive loss of life, Tennessee state leaders developed a special program to unite faith-based communities and take coordinated action against substance abuse.
Faith communities have a long history in the struggle against substance abuse. By working together and building a Faith-Based Recovery Network, not only can the state of Tennessee provide educated, welcoming, and supportive places for individuals struggling with Substance Use Disorder (SUD), but also, they can increase outreach, and build more pathways to recovery.
Dr. Monty Burks, is the leader of Tennessee’s Faith-Based Recovery Network, and State Director of Special Projects and Faith-Based Initiatives. Fresh off his speech from the National Drug Abuse & Heroin Summit, Dr. Burks shares his insight into this program’s collaboration with Faith-based communities in Tennessee and beyond.
Listen to today’s podcast for a preview of Dr. Monty Burks, Fair-Based Recovery Network- empowering faith communities for substance abuse recovery.
While there are many high-quality treatment centers, organizations, and programs for people struggling with opioid addiction, their families often lack the same resources. Opioid use changes the lives of the addict’s family as well as the addict, and many families don’t know what to do when a loved one is faced with opioid addiction.
Opioid addiction is a battle for everyone involved, and without proper guidance, adjusting to this change can be its own challenge. To help families become a positive force in their loved one’s struggle with opioid addiction, joining us today is Roy Poillon. Founder of R~House Alzheimer’s Family Learning Center and Families Impacted by Opioids, his mission is to empower families in their journey to support a loved one struggling with substance use disorder.
This May 4th, through his Addiction Family Empowerment Conference, Roy is channeling his veteran experience in aiding families with Alzheimer’s, to empower the families of Opioid addicts by providing them with the therapy, training, and educational resources they need to be a positive force in their loved one’s recovery.
Listen to today’s podcast for a preview of Roy Poillon’s, Addiction Family Empowerment Conference – for families that have been impacted by the opioid epidemic.
On March 26, 2019, the pharmaceutical company Purdue Pharma, a high-profile figure in the Opioid Epidemic, agreed to a $270 Million Opioid Settlement with the State of Oklahoma. The money from this settlement will fund a national addiction research and treatment center in Oklahoma.
This is a unique case for several reasons. First, Oklahoma Attorney general Mike Hunter had originally sought $20 Billion in damages. Second, this is the first of more than 1,600 cases against Purdue to settle. Third, the settlement occurred one day after the Oklahoma Supreme Court denied Purdue’s request to delay the trial from its May 28th start date, and the judge had ruled that the trial could be televised.
There’s a lot of subtext in a case like this, and it can be difficult to understand the intent behind each parties’ actions. With the help of legal authority Andrew Pollis, Professor at the Case Western Reserve University School of Law, we unravel the deeper meaning behind this key settlement in our struggle against the opioid crisis.
Listen to today’s podcast for an expert’s perspective on Purdue Pharma’s Settlement with Oklahoma, joined by Case Western Reserve University School of Law Professor, Andrew Pollis.
Pharmaceutical companies spend billions annually on influencing physicians and other pharmaceutical providers, to write more prescriptions for their products. For most companies, the majority of their marketing budget is dedicated to direct contact with doctors, offering token gifts and free lunches, in tandem with information on their products. Many aspiring medical practitioners and physicians are unaware of the impact this can have on their practice and their patients, with recent studies revealing the full extent of this influence.
Fortunately, there are those dedicated to preparing today’s students on where to draw the line when pharmaceutical reps come calling. Today, we talk with Dr. Elizabeth Gundersen, the Director of Ethics at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Florida. An expert on physicians’ vulnerability to the pharmaceutical industry, Dr. Gundersen’s ethics class helps prepare students for ethical challenges they face as future as practicing physicians.
Listen to today’s podcast for the eye-opening truth about the pharmaceutical industry with Florida Atlantic University, Director of Ethics, Dr. Elizabeth Gundersen.
Each year, thousands of people from across the country go to Florida seeking treatment for drug addiction. Some find help and recover, but the vast majority relapse and continue to struggle with the disease, even after going through treatment many times. This population is vulnerable to insurance fraud through cooked treatment centers partnering with “body brokers” and operations of “sober homes” to find patients with good health insurance. Brokers and sober home owners offer those trying to get clean, free rent and grocery store gift cards, cigarettes and cell phones in exchange for going to a specific treatment center, which pays kickbacks for each client. Today, we’ll talk with Filmmaker Pat McGee, the Producer of “American Relapse,” a story about two people fighting to make a difference against the devastating heroin epidemic that’s spawning a billion-dollar treatment industry. Against the odds, two recovering addicts spend their lives pulling needles out of the arms of addicts and assist in placing them in reputable treatment facilities.
The film features Frankie and Allie who live and work in Delray Beach, Florida, the Rehab Capital of America, now referred to by some as the Relapse Capital of America. They allowed the film crew all access for one weekend. What transpires over 72 hours is not only captivating and raw, but a heartbreaking rollercoaster ride.
Listen to today’s podcast for an incredible behind the scenes look into “American Relapse” with Award-Winning producer, Pat McGee.
Over 130 people die each day after overdosing on opioids in America. The abuse of and addiction to opioids is a national crisis that has touched the lives of more families than any other health crisis in our history. Today, more families are finding the courage to speak out in support of prevention and recovery than ever before. But that hasn’t always been the case. Ten years ago, speaking out about a family member’s struggles with heroin addiction was almost unheard of. On this episode, we’ll talk to a school counselor from Texas who did just that. Beginning 10 years ago, Dr. Kendall Young’s life took a dramatic turn both personally and professionally. In this podcast, the Tivy High School Counselor, from Kerrville, Texas joins us to share how her life changed in an instant when she learned a former student lost his life in a deadly confrontation with police officers in 2009. Next, still reeling from the loss of a former student, she learns her son is battling heroin addiction. We’ll talk about how the adversity she faced as a parent and as a counselor changed her approach to parenting and counseling forever.
We’ll further our discussion with comments from Dr. Young about the actions she’s taken within communities as an outspoken advocate for prevention and recovery all while being an active member of the Kerrville Recovery Community Coalition, a marathon runner, a published author and a dedicated basketball mom.
Listen to today’s podcast to hear Dr. Young’s transformational story of becoming a community leader after being touched both personally and professionally by the opioid epidemic.
It’s estimated that one hundred and seventy-five people die from opioid overdoses daily in our country. Naloxone can save lives, if there when needed, but the window of time is very short. Brain damage is likely if help doesn’t arrive within four to six minutes of an overdose; and most victims do not survive more than ten minutes. A recent review of EMS records from 485 agencies across the United States showed average response times of seven-minutes in urban settings compared to 14 minutes in rural settings. On today’s show, we’ll talk about combining three programs to make naloxone more readily available as a community initiative to help those who have overdosed. Most of our listeners are probably aware of Project DAWN (Deaths Avoided with Naloxone). We introduced Project DAWN to our listeners in episode 10. The Program, which launched 2013 in Ohio, provides Naloxone Training and DAWN Kits containing a free sample of Naloxone and instructions to anyone in the community who attends the 30-minute training. With so many people overdosing in public places today, why not place Naloxone, the lifesaving opioid overdose reversal drug, in public places just as defibrillators are today. Our guest in episode 112 did just that. Dr. Geoffrey Capraro, an assistant professor of emergency medicine at Brown University developed what he named the NaloxBox. Inspired by the proliferation of AEDs for heart attacks, the NaloxBox kits contain Naloxone and tools like a breathing device along with instructions to save a life. By placing these devices in public places, people who wouldn’t otherwise make it, get a second chance for recovery. NaloxBox is now available for purchase online at NaloxBox.Org.
In today’s episode, we’ll introduce a free app that can link anyone in need to the naloxone carrier nearest to them. This new app is called NaloxoFind, and it will enable anyone to locate all registered naloxone carriers and registered NaloxBox locations within a 2 mile radius of their location. The app is free and available via the iTunes app store and Google Play.
Listen to this podcast to learn how your community can become a Community of First Responders by registering naloxone carriers and downloading the NaloxoFind app for free.
In our last episode of this series, we learned how passage of the Ensuring Patient Access and Effective Drug Enforcement Act took away the DEA’s most effective diversion control enforcement tool, the immediate suspension order. The bill was shaped in large part by a former DEA lawyer. On this episode, you’ll hear more stories about Congressman and high ranking government agency officials who have played key roles in deciding the fate of drug bills and policies; and weeks later went to work in the pharmaceutical industry.
24 years ago, the medical director for the FDA played a key role in approving OxyContin without clinical trials and shortly thereafter, left to go to work for Purdue Pharma. In this podcast you’ll hear a clip from “The Sentence that Helped Set Off the Opioid Crisis” a podcast by Caitlin Esch and Krissy Clark in their “Uncertain Marketplace” series that frames a key reason why OxyContin was approved by the FDA and the people involved in that decision.
Back in 2007, a member of Congress led an all-night effort to pass legislation that prohibits the government from negotiating lower Medicare drug prices. Today we’ll play a “60 Minutes” piece by Steve Kroft from 2007, that reveals what happened after the bill was passed and why, in our country an EpiPen costs $608 and in Britain, where they can negotiate drug prices with the manufacturers, it costs just $70. The Congressman who led passage of that bill became a leading lobbyist for the Pharmaceutical Industry after its passage.
Today in the final part of our 4-part series with Mr. Joe Rannazzisi, he shares his reaction when his department was asked to be more like the FDA. As we pick up our discussion, Mr. Rannazzisi talks about the shakeup in leadership that led to his departure from the DEA.
Join us on this podcast, the final episode in our 4 part series, for more candid conversation with the former head of the Department of Diversion Control for the DEA, Mr. Joseph Rannazzisi.
When a key member of the government’s legal team went to work for the pharmaceutical industry, the job of diversion control enforcement changed dramatically. In this episode, Mr. Joseph Rannazzisi, who for over a decade, was the front man in the government’s battle against the opioid epidemic, shares a first-hand account of what happened when Congress took the word of an industry attorney over an agency that was actually enforcing the law. Today, in the third part of our 4-part series, you’ll hear more of Mr. Rannazzisi’s unfiltered comments on the passage of the Ensuring Patient Access and Effective Enforcement Act and the Congressional leaders behind it. “This doesn’t ensure patient access and it doesn’t help drug enforcement at all. What this bill does has nothing to do with the medical process. What this bill does is take away DEA’s ability to go after a pharmacist, a wholesaler, manufacturer or distributor,” he said. “This was a gift. A gift to the industry.” Greg is joined on this episode by guest, award-winning author of “American Overdose”, Chris McGreal. McGreal’s book is a comprehensive portrait of the greed, corruption and indifference that led our country into the worst health crisis in American history. Additionally, Mr. McGreal is an investigative journalist for the Guardian, who in 2016, wrote a compelling story about Mr. Rannazzisi titled “Opioid epidemic: ex-DEA official says Congress is protecting drug makers.” https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/oct/31/opioid-epidemic-dea-official-congress-big-pharma Listen to this podcast, the third in our 4 part series, for more candid conversation with the former head of the Department of Diversion Control for the DEA, Mr. Joseph Rannazzisi.
This is the 2nd in our 4 part series with the former head of the Office of Diversion Control for the DEA, Mr. Joseph Rannazzisi. We began this series by talking about the surprisingly candid report released on December 19th, 2018 by the Energy and Commerce Committee titled “Red Flags and Warning Signs Ignored: Opioid Distribution and Enforcement Concerns in West Virginia”. The purpose of the report was to investigate allegations of “opioid dumping” in West Virginia. In today’s podcast with Mr. Rannazzisi, who for over a decade was the front man in the government’s battle against the opioid epidemic, you’ll hear an in-depth conversation about how the diversion controls, that were supposed to be in place to protect the public from “opioid dumping”, failed in epic proportions. He gives a candid account of the friction and distrust that emerged between DEA and the DOJ that resulted in a breakdown in their ability to protect the American public from shipments of mass quantities of opioids, previously flagged as suspect. He’ll share his unfiltered comments on the passage of the Ensuring Patient Access and Effective Enforcement Act, a game-changing piece of legislation and you’ll learn about the people who were responsible for the legislative win for the pharmaceutical industry. Mr. Rannazzisi offers his insights into the inter-workings of the Office of Diversion Control. As the department’s former leader, he was responsible for cracking down on doctors, pharmacies, drug manufacturers and distributors who did not follow the nation’s prescription drug laws. You may recall him from the 60 Minutes story titled “The Whistleblower” last fall. Greg is joined on this episode by guest, award winning investigative reporter, Pat Beall from the Palm Beach Post. Pat won Journalist of the Year for her work on The Post’s coverage of the heroin crisis, including profiles of the 216 people who died in 2015 from heroin-related overdoses, calculation of the cost of hospital care related to heroin treatment and a story linking Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi to a fraudulent drug-screening company. Listen to this podcast, the second in our 4 part series, for a behind the scenes look at who was behind law changes that helped fuel America’s opioid epidemic.
On December 19th, 2018, the Energy and Commerce Committee released a long awaited report titled “Red Flags and Warning Signs Ignored: Opioid Distribution and Enforcement Concerns in West Virginia”. The purpose of the report was to investigate allegations of “opioid dumping” in West Virginia.
Today, we begin a 4-part series with Joseph Rannazzisi, who for over a decade, was the front man in the government’s battle against the opioid epidemic. Mr. Rannazzisi provides in-depth commentary on the Energy and Commerce Committee’s eye opening report, which, notably, is no longer available on the department’s website.
Prior to the passage of the Ensuring Patient Access and Effective Drug Enforcement Act in 2016, Mr. Rannazzisi warned congress that passage of the bill would cripple their ability to regulate rogue distributors who were dumping millions of opioids across the country. Today, you’ll hear Mr. Rannazzisi’s unfiltered comments on this game-changing piece of legislation.
As head of the Office of Diversion Control for the Drug Enforcement Administration, he was responsible for cracking down on doctors, pharmacies, drug manufacturers and distributors who did not follow the nation’s prescription drug laws. You may recall him from the 60 Minutes story titled “The Whistleblower” last fall.
Greg is joined on this episode by guest, Pulitzer Prize winning journalist, Eric Eyre. Mr. Eyre received the distinguished award for courageous reporting, performed in the face of powerful opposition, to expose the flood of opioids flowing into depressed West Virginia counties with the highest overdose death rates in the country.
For more on Mr. Eyre’s award winning work go to: https://www.pulitzer.org/winners/eric-eyre
Listen to this podcast to learn more about who was behind law changes that helped fuel America’s opioid epidemic.
We frame today’s podcast with Palm Beach Post reporters, John Pacenti and Pat Beall with a clip from the Insys Therapeutics rap video on the virtues of persuading doctors to prescribe higher doses of the company’s liquid opioid, Subsys. This week jurors in the Insys racketeering case in Boston heard the following lyrics from the company’s self-produced video; “I love titration. Yeah, it’s not a problem. I got new patients and I got a lot of ‘em”. That may be the most damning evidence against former executives of the company yet.
In this second part of our series, we continue our conversation on the deceptive sales practices pioneered by Purdue Pharma more than 20 years ago, and perpetuated by others in the industry. In 2007, Purdue Pharma executives pled guilty to misbranding and deceptive marketing but the charges were reduced from felonies to misdemeanors and they were sentenced to just 300 hours of community service, thanks in part to Rudy Giuliani. In January, the trial began for former executives of Insys Therapeutics for essentially the same deceptive sales practices Purdue Pharma pled guilty to 12 years earlier. Palm Beach Post reporter, John Pacenti describes a corrupt operation willing to do almost anything to induce physicians to overprescribe their product, Subsys Fentanyl spray. We close today’s podcast with more of the self-produced Insys rap video on the virtues of persuading doctors to prescribe higher doses of Subsys. Go to Cover2.org to view the entire video featuring the company’s former director of sales, Alec Burlakoff, in a giant prescription bottle.
Back in January, the pharmaceutical trial of Insys Therapeutics and company founder, John Kapoor faced charges of racketeering. Allegedly, he and six former sales directors operated a scheme which paid bribes to physicians to prescribe the fentanyl spray SUBSYS, a high-powered opioid pain medication. Between 2012-2016, approximately 908 people overdosed and died due as a result of SUBSYS.
Unfortunately, this tale is all too familiar for some. Back in 2007, Perdue Pharma pled guilty to these same sales practices and yet, little has been done to prevent future cases. Many companies, such as Insys Therapeutics are using this same questionable marketing today. Greg recently met with John Pacenti and Pat Beall to discuss more on this story and how years later, many pharmaceutical companies are still using these age-old tactics to push dangerous prescriptions. Hear more on today’s podcast.
As Beth Macy’s book “Dopesick: Dealers, Doctors and the Drug Company that Addicted America” unfolds, we meet many families, community leaders and healthcare providers that were directly impacted by the opioid epidemic in Virginia. As the crisis emerged, families didn’t know where to turn for help. On today’s podcast, Janine Underwood shares the story of her son, Bobby Baylis’, 7 year battle with opioid dependence and her efforts to transform how people find help in their community.
Bobby was prescribed OxyContin after surgery to repair his ACL following a snowboarding accident. For the next few years, he struggled with opioids and even ended up in prison. This episode features the story of his struggles to recover and his family’s ground breaking work to help others avoid their same fate through the Roanoke Valley Hope Initiative. Hear how this community came together to develop a special program that has helped hundreds of people find recovery from SUD.
Improbable Players is a collection of touring theater troupes with a powerful message. Forming in Boston, the organization formed in 1984 and is a form of evidence-based prevention education. They use workshops and performances to address and educate the audience on addiction, opioids and alcoholism. The workshops give students the tools to combat social pressures and find coping strategies that work best for them. The shows are performed by real people in recovery and share true stories of those who have battled addiction.
The podcast today features Karen Snyder, the Cleveland Regional Director, as well as Chris Everett Hussey and Andy Short. They are the Co-Directors of the Boston troupe. Typically, after each performance, the actors get an opportunity to engage with the audience and have a talk. During this time the actors will share their stories and open up about their experiences and where they’ve come from. Each show is suitable for young audiences in 6th grade and up. Hear more about the ways that the Improbable Players are fighting the stigma of addiction and educating audiences around the New England region. Catch them at conferences, treatment centers and even community events happening near your hometown.
This is the fifth and final episode of our podcast series on Dopesick: Dealers, Doctors and The Drug Company That Addicted America. So far, we have discussed what made the Appalachia region of the United States so vulnerable to the opioid epidemic and the marketing methods of Purdue Pharma. In this episode we will hear the story of Kristi Fernandez, the mother of a gifted athlete from Strasburg, Virginia and her search for answers in the overdose death of her son, Jessie.
Jesse was a former high school football star who died of a heroin overdose at the age of 19. The small town where they lived was ravaged by the epidemic, going from a handful of known heroin users to more than a hundred seemingly overnight. Kristi asked author Beth Macy to help her get to the bottom of how Jesse became a casualty of the opioid epidemic in their community. Hear the whole story on today’s podcast.
In part four of our five-part “Dopesick” series, we have an extensive conversation with Sister Beth Davies. With the help of Dr. Art Van Zee, the two established a community coalition which laid the groundwork to file the first lawsuit against Purdue Pharma. A Staten Island native, Sister Beth is a member of the Congregation of Notre Dame. She has served as an advocate to the exploited, addicted and impoverished for more than forty years.
Through her efforts, Sister Beth has developed a network of medical clinics, worked for environmental protections and built numerous substance abuse and addiction programs. After years of dedicated service, she has helped transform the Virginia criminal justice system to improve treatment for inmates. Hear more about these pivotal programs and the many causes she has taken up that have helped combat the epidemic in the Appalachia region.
This is part three of our “Dopesick” podcast series. In parts one and two, we sat down with New York Times writer and bestselling author Beth Macy and discussed what made Appalachia so vulnerable to the opioid crisis. We touched on Purdue Pharma’s marketing efforts and the impact they had on OxyContin sales, which devastated the region.
Today we talk to Dr. Stephen Loyd and Dr. Robert Pack about the transformation of their community, which helped establish OverMountain Recovery. This is an outpatient treatment program in the heart of Appalachia that provides counseling and treatment for those battling addiction. We begin today’s podcast with an introduction from Macy.
Part one of our Dopesick podcast, we discussed the effects that the opioid epidemic had on Appalachia and why the region was so vulnerable. In part two, we will discuss Purdue Pharma’s OxyContin marketing efforts and the enormous impact it had on the region.
In 1996, Purdue Pharma more than doubled the size of their salesforce and handpicked physicians who would be extremely susceptible to their marketing. Using data that they bought from IMS Health, they targeted which doctors prescribed the most competing painkillers. 4 years later, these representatives had influenced 94,000 physicians to push OxyContin and sales had increased almost tenfold.
Continuing the conversation with Beth Macey, she shares how OxyContin affected her hometown and how surrounding communities were ravaged with crime after the epidemic took off. Greg also talks with Dr. Art Van Zee about the deceptive marketing practices of Purdue Pharma and how these physicians were influenced. Hear more of the story on today’s podcast.
“Dopesick: Dealers, Doctors and the Drug Company that Addicted America” is a look into the opioid crisis as it emerged in, bestselling author Beth Macy’s hometown of Roanoke Virginia. It’s an account that profiles the twenty plus year history of the epidemic and the story of how Appalachia was ravaged by this crisis. Macy began reporting on the events of the epidemic back in 2012 and after five years of research, “Dopesick” was born.
This is part one of a multi-part series on Dopesick. Greg sits down with bestselling author Beth Macy and the two examine how America’s worst health crisis emerged from this economically vulnerable area. We will also talk to families, doctors, community leaders and healthcare providers who discuss the birth of the epidemic in our country, as well as the drug company that exploited the hardships of an entire generation. Listen to today’s podcast for more on “Dopesick.”
In 2017, it was recorded that Dayton, OH had one of the highest rates of overdoses in the entire country. By November of last year, Montgomery County Ohio, which is anchored by Dayton had already seen 548 overdose deaths. However, in 2018 there have only been 250 total deaths which is a reduction of 54% from last year. To determine what caused these numbers to drop so drastically, the New York Times spent several days investigating Dayton. They conducted interviews with public health officials, police, doctors, nurses and other treatment providers to see what Dayton has done to cut their overdose rate in half. The New York Times profiled many of these success stories in their article.
Today’s episode features some of these programs that have made a difference in Dayton. Greg spoke with Dr. Mary Huber who helped found Conversations for Change. This is an event held every other month which provides people with a meal and an opportunity to meet with treatment providers. Hear more of this and other game-changing programs are doing for Dayton and how they can help save lives today.
The author of Dreamland, Sam Quinones, stated in a blog post “The Purdue Pharma company instructional materials pushed salespeople to ‘expand the physician’s definition of the appropriate patient’ to which opioids might be prescribed, and to develop a ‘specific plan for systematically moving physicians to the next level of prescribing.’” Over the past twenty years, other companies have adopted the same deceptive, sales tactics from Purdue Pharma, including INSYS Therapeutics.
Today Greg is joined by Evan Hughes, author and writer for GQ, The Washington Post, The Boston Globe and The New York Times. Hughes recently composed an article for The New York Times entitled The Pain Hustlers. This article profiled the case of INSYS Therapeutics and how they paid millions to physicians through their “Speaker Program” to recommend and prescribe their bestselling, highly addictive, fentanyl product to treat terminal cancer pain: Subsys. Hear this story and how others in the industry have adopted these deceptive sales and marketing practices, despite Purdue Pharma’s prosecution for employing essentially, the same practices.
In criminal cases, legal assistance is a right. However, there is no right to counsel in civil matters, and most low-income Americans are forced to go it alone without legal representation. It’s estimated that 71% of low-income households experienced at least one civil legal problem in the last year, including problems with health care, housing conditions, disability access, veterans’ benefits, and domestic violence. Left unaddressed, these issues represent a significant hurdle to overcome for those in recovery. In October of 2017, St. Vincent Charity Medical Center in Cleveland sought to address the legal barriers that negatively impact an individual’s health. They launched a medical/ legal partnership after receiving support from various local organizations, such as the Jones Day Foundation and Mount Sinai Healthcare Foundation to name a few.
For today’s podcast, Greg met with Legal Aid attorneys Michael Russell and Jennifer Kinsley, as well as Dr. Albana Dreshaj Medical Director of St. Vincent Charity Psychiatric Emergency Department. Hear how this program can help those less fortunate overcome obstacles and get the assistance they need.
On October 24, 2018, President Trump signed The Support for Patients and Communities Act or H.R.6. into law. This podcast is the second part of our series on this historic piece of legislation.
H.R.6 includes support for three successful programs we have featured on earlier podcasts in our series. On today’s show, we’ll revisit our ALTO, Lily’s Place and AnchorED programs to highlight how each of these successful programs got started and how they are making a difference in the opioid epidemic.
On today’s podcast, you’ll hear how H.R.6 promotes the ALTO program, that’s alternatives to opioids, a program developed at St. Joseph Healthcare in Patterson New Jersey. 75% of patients at St. Joseph Healthcare have said their pain has been managed effectively without the use of opioids. Listen to excerpts from that episode on today’s podcast or go to the original podcast on ALTO with Dr. Rosenberg from December 2016 to hear more.
We will also revisit our show on neonatal abstinence syndrome and Lily’s Place , an organization dedicated to treating babies that are born with NAS by providing medical care for these newborns suffering from NAS and instruction on their specialized care requirements for mothers . You can also hear more information from the original Lily’s Place podcast from December 2017.
Also featured in this episode is a program called AnchorED which connects overdose victims in the ED to certified recovery coaches. These coaches provide encouragement and connect patients to the help they need for their recovery. Tune into today’s episode to hear excerpts from our AnchorED episode or listen to our entire AnchorED program from April 2017.
On Tuesday, November 6th Ohio voters will decide State Issue 1, a ballot initiative that would reduce drug possession offenses to misdemeanors, so they’re no longer classified as felonies with harsher penalties. By most accounts, proponents and opponents are locked in a dead heat on this important issue. So, we decided to revisit our Issue 1 podcast (Ep. 211), stay tuned to the end of this podcast as Senator Portman weighs in on this important issue.
One of the many issues that voters will be deciding on this fall is Ohio Issue 1. This issue reduces drug possession to a misdemeanor. Currently classified as a felony, this would significantly reduce sentencing and eliminate jail time in some instances. Some say this could keep 10,000 people out of Ohio prisons but opponents of Issue 1 say it would actually be close to half of that. Out-of-state billionaires are actually backing Issue 1, including Mark Zuckerberg and his wife Priscilla Chan.
If Issue 1 passes, it will convert felony 4 and felony 5 drug possession and drug use crimes to only misdemeanors. No jail time will be served for first and second offenders within a 24-month period. It will put the money saved from the lower prison numbers into treatment programs and crime victim programs as well.
To help us unpack the many controversies behind Issue 1, we welcome Judge David Matia, Common Pleas Judge from Cleveland, Tom Stuber, CEO of the LCADA Wellness & Recovery Way and Bishara Addison, Senior Manager of Policy and Strategic Initiatives from Towards Employment. Hear all sides of the issue and how your vote can help make an impact this fall.
Ohio continues to have one of the largest death rates due to overdoses in all the US. Just last year, Franklin County had a 47% increase due to opioid abuse. This caused community leaders to come together and form the Ohio Opioid Education Alliance. Their research uncovered some shocking results. It concluded that most people are aware of the opioid epidemic but underestimate the risk to their families. Many parents have the “not my kid” mentality. Only 19% believe it can impact their family directly. This is one of the main reasons that people overlook preventative measures.
Today Greg is joined by Chad Jester, President of Nationwide Insurance Foundation and Shawn Holt, President & CEO of Maryhaven, who together with other members of the Ohio Opioid Education Alliance developed a public awareness campaign to expose a common “not in my town” mindset that can devastate a community. By making people aware of how they can take action to make a difference in the opioid epidemic, these powerful PSAs created by the Ohio Opioid Education Alliance, are helping to prevent opioid addiction in the next generation.
Recently, President Trump signed an opioid package into law called H.R.6. Today’s podcast will discuss what this means and will be the first episode of a two-part series that will break down H.R.6. Greg met with Jay Ruais, Chief of Staff and VP of Federal and National Initiatives for the Addiction Policy Forum and Braeden Kelly, Director of External Affairs. The two discuss what H.R.6 will do and how this can help combat the opioid crisis.
One of the key points that H.R.6 will do is expand treatment capacity. Roughly 20 million people suffer from substance use disorders and about 10% of them will receive treatment. H.R.6 will help to establish evidence-based treatment centers to help those suffering. In addition to treatment capacity expansion, this bill will also allow Medicaid to cover up to 30 days of treatment as well as expand telehealth services. Listen for more initiatives this legislation will add and how it can help curb the opioid epidemic and ensure victims of the disease get the support and treatment they need.
The lifestyle of the music industry has proven deadly for so many people over the years. Wikipedia lists the names of over 100 pop artists who have lost their lives to overdose since the 60s. Greg’s guest today knows the story all too well having been the lead guitarist for Joan Jett and the Blackhearts during their hey-day. Ricky Byrd was living the life of a rock star until he almost lost his life and decided it was time to get clean. Today, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame-inductee Ricky Byrd has been clean and sober for thirty one years. Over the last few years Ricky realized he could combine his music and recovery to create songs that are useful to people struggling with addiction.
The result is Clean Getaway, both the name of a 501(c)(3) non-profit Ricky founded to reach addicts through the connective power of music, AND a brand new album of songs related to his experience with addiction and recovery. Ricky talks with Greg about his brush with death, recovery and using his platform to give back and help others find sobriety.
One of the many issues that voters will be deciding on this fall is Ohio Issue 1. This issue reduces drug possession to a misdemeanor. Currently classified as a felony, this would significantly reduce sentencing and eliminate jail time in some instances. Some say this could keep 10,000 people out of Ohio prisons but opponents of Issue 1 say it would actually be close to half of that. Out-of-state billionaires are actually backing Issue 1, including Mark Zuckerberg and his wife Priscilla Chan.
If Issue 1 passes, it will convert felony 4 and felony 5 drug possession and drug use crimes to only misdemeanors. No jail time will be served for first and second offenders within a 24-month period. It will put the money saved from the lower prison numbers into treatment programs and crime victim programs as well.
To help us unpack the many controversies behind Issue 1, we welcome Judge David Matia, Common Pleas Judge from Cleveland, Tom Stuber, CEO of the LCADA Wellness & Recovery Way and Bishara Addison, Senior Manager of Policy and Strategic Initiatives from Towards Employment. Hear all sides of the issue and how your vote can help make an impact this fall.
There have now been over 1,300 opioid lawsuits filed by states, cities, countries, Native American tribes and labor unions throughout our country. The New York Times said resolving these lawsuits could be the most daunting legal challenge our nation has faced. Last December all the opioid cases filed in federal court across the country were consolidated into what’s called multidistrict litigation or an MDL, to be presided over by a single judge in Cleveland, Ohio and his name is Judge Dan Polster.
Today’s podcast features excerpts of community forum where Judge Polster spoke at the Siegal Lifelong Learning Program. He discusses the challenges of assigning responsibility and calculating damages. If cases are not settled under the MDL, they go back to their districts of origin. If a settlement is reached, the money goes towards funding recovery and to help communities offset the millions of dollars expended fighting the opioid crisis across our country. Tune in to this podcast to learn how settlement in these historic proceedings could fund America’s recovery for years to come.
Stanford University researchers developed a mathematical model that could help public health officials and policymakers decrease the effects of the opioid epidemic, which took the lives of roughly 49,000 Americans in 2017.
The model includes data about addictions, prescriptions and overdoses in the United States which can be used for “what if” scenarios similar to those that business leaders run through to project how changing product features or prices affect sales and profits, said Margaret Brandeau, PhD, the Coleman F. Fung Professor in the School of Engineering and a professor of management science and engineering who worked on the study.
The paper cites the hard facts of the opioid crisis: Between 1990 and 2010, there was a 400 percent spike in prescriptions for opioid painkillers. Today, roughly 3.5 million Americans suffer from an addiction to opioids as a result of being exposed to opioid pills. Yet, as doctors have begun responding to the crisis by reducing prescriptions, overdose deaths have increased because those addicted to pills and unable to obtain prescription medication, are buying heroin as an alternative. And much of the heroin supply found in the US is now laced with fentanyl, making it 50 times more potent.
Unfortunately, the model indicates the interventions studied can only make a small dent in the death toll which just goes to show the magnitude of the crisis. Researchers hope this model can aid policymakers in selecting the best mix of interventions to fight the epidemic.
Today Greg is joined today by Allison Pitt, one of the research team members from Stanford University to discuss this innovative study. Listen as they discuss how it can be used by policy makers and community leaders to help ease the opioid crisis in our country.
Treatment for addiction and rehabilitation is currently a $35 billion dollar industry and continues to climb. There are many honest and reputable organizations out there, but some are unfortunately often seeking personal gain from individuals who are in crisis. They exploit those seeking treatment with addiction treatment scams and those suffering from Substance Use Disorder (SUD) when people are most vulnerable.
For today’s podcast, Greg met with Dan Sevigny, Mental Health Coach, and Co-Founder of Recovery X. This is an organization dedicated to providing people reliable treatment options and connecting them to the appropriate facilities based on their own specific needs. Recovery X is actually a growing movement of experts, thought leaders and even those in recovery themselves. These individuals are dedicated to providing high-quality resources to those who are fighting addiction and paving the way for a model organization.
The opioid epidemic has devastated our country claiming many loved ones along the way. Back in November of 2017, Bill Sternberg, USA Today editorial page Editor, lost his son Scott to an overdose. Through his grief, Bill decided to share Scott’s story in an attempt to help spread awareness and possibly help others struggling with this disease.
Scott was prescribed a 30-day prescription for opioids coming off an emergency surgical procedure. Although it was considered common practice, this is, unfortunately many people’s introduction to opioids and can often start them down the path of addiction. Scott, like many others, lost his battle with opioids shortly after.
Greg joins Bill as the two of them discuss many of the obstacles that people face when battling this disease. One of the largest hurdles is to break the stigma behind addiction and avoiding dangerous clichés, such as “hitting rock bottom.” Hear Greg and Bill discuss how the epidemic has evolved and various steps our country has taken to combat the crisis.
Back in 2015, The White House confirmed that the opioid epidemic cost America around $504 billion. Employees with pain medication use disorder cost organizations more than three times the average worker. This has caused a new crisis to emerge in today’s economy. There aren’t enough workers who are able to pass a drug test to fill all of the available openings. Other than the skyrocketing cost of employee healthcare, absenteeism and high turnover rates have also plagued companies throughout America.
Today’s podcast, Greg meets with Kathleen Herath, AVP of Well-Being and Safety at Nationwide Insurance. They are also joined by Robert Hardin-Leeth, Director of Safety to discuss employee wellness and the Nationwide Substance-Free Workplace Program. The program offers two different perspectives; monitoring and education. This includes not only random drug testing, but also counseling and intervention. Listen for more details on how Nationwide maintains a safe work environment, while also getting employees the treatment that they need.
Almost every single American has been impacted by the opioid crisis. Whether it’s a friend, loved one or our own personal struggle with addiction, the epidemic has affected millions in this nation. The book "American Fix" is a sort-of memoir of Ryan Hampton’s struggle with opioid abuse and his journey. Hampton is a National Addiction Recovery Advocate, as well as a former White House staffer who has dedicated his life to exposing and ending this crisis.
In “American Fix,” Hampton calls for political leaders to rise up and take a firm stance on opioids and even challenges politicians to make a pledge to address this issue. He also touches on the Facing Addiction Across America Project, where Hampton himself documented his own travels across the country in which he visited various regions that were severely hit by the epidemic. Check out some of these programs that Hampton has partnered with, such as Rise Together, Rebel Recovery and also Indigo Life out of Dayton, OH.
For this podcast, Greg joins Hampton and discusses his 10-year battle with addiction and then his journey through recovery. Listen to hear more of his story and how Hampton has become a leading voice for those in recovery today.
Since the birth of the U.S. Attorney’s Heroin and Opioid Task Force, there have been many advancements in the fight against opioid abuse. One of their many achievements is the availability of Narcan and making it more widespread throughout communities. Also, law enforcement has developed new protocols for booking drug traffickers and hospitals have furthered education with their physicians in an attempt to change prescribing practices.
In this second half of this two-part series, Greg continues to share highlights from the conference that was held in Cleveland on September 6th called “Opioids: A Crisis Still Facing Our Entire Community” and discusses the progress of The Northeast Ohio Hospital Opioid Consortium.
Listen to today’s podcast to learn more about the innovative programs that are making a difference in the opioid epidemic here in Northeast Ohio.
In late 2013, many of Northeast Ohio’s leading institutions joined forces to formulate a Community Action Plan, a document to serve as a master plan for communities as they move forward in their fight against the opioid epidemic. The Action Plan was divided into four categories which eventually morphed into four subcommittees: Education and Prevention, Healthcare Policy and Treatment; Law Enforcement; and Data and Analysis. This group that formulated the Action Plan continued to meet every month as part of what became known as the U.S. Attorney’s Heroin and Opioid Task Force. In the first episode of this two part series, Greg shares highlights from the conference that was held in Cleveland on September 6th called “Opioids: A Crisis Still Facing Our Entire Community” where the group reconvened to review their progress and revise the Community Action Plan. Listen to today’s podcast to learn about the innovative programs that are making a difference in the opioid epidemic here in Northeast Ohio.
A common misconception among drug and alcohol addiction is that abusers typically live in poor or lower-middle-class neighborhoods. Part of the reason is that people tend to associate drug and alcohol addiction with financial stress, lack of treatment resources and insufficient education on substance abuse. However, recent studies have shown this is not the case. The addiction statistics actually increase among higher-income neighborhoods, although many don’t want to acknowledge it as an epidemic happening right in their own neighborhoods.
In July of 2017, a group of 30 community leaders in Hudson, OH joined forces to tackle the opioid epidemic head-on and answer these difficult questions. Led by leaders of the Hudson Community Foundation and members of Hudson Community First, the group formed a new organization called Drug Safe Hudson to bring about community awareness. Drug Safe Hudson exists to improve opportunities for citizens living in Hudson, OH that are battling addiction. For this week’s podcast, Greg met with Jamie Messenger, the Resource Specialist for Drug Safe Hudson and community advocate who specializes in combating the alcohol and drug epidemic. Hear how these organizations are providing resources for victims and support for families that have been affected by the crisis.
One of the major contributing factors to the opioid epidemic has been linked to the over-prescribing of opioids for pain relief. Treatment methods, such as chiropractic care, have been offered in many states as an alternative to prescribing opioids. Chiropractors practicing in Ohio participated in a recent survey regarding coverage from Ohio’s largest payers. The results were alarming. According to the statistics, both public and private payers favor opioid prescriptions over alternative treatments, which can very well contribute to the ongoing epidemic.
Greg is joined by Dr. Aaron McMichael and Dr. Vern Saboe on this podcast and the three discuss alternative pain methods and why it is vital to get insurance companies behind non-drug treatments. The state of Oregon recently revised their guidelines after many successfully lobbied to get these larger healthcare payers to extend their coverage to non-pharmacologic methods. Hear how alternative pain treatment can be a key component to lessen the dependency on pharmaceuticals and combat the growing crisis.
Completing over 200 podcasts, Cover2 Resources has had many fascinating guests over the years who represent organizations and programs that are making a difference fighting the opioid crisis. Whether these organizations use the judicial system, personalized treatment or support groups, they are designed to bring hope to those suffering from addiction and start them down the path of recovery.
In this episode, we look back at various podcasts that discuss a variety of treatment programs and methods. Many are finding innovative new ways to reach more victims of opioid abuse and encourage them down the path of recovery. Listen to this special collaboration of podcasts that speak on Drug Courts, Quick Response Teams, harm-reduction programs, treatment locating websites, support groups and even innovative technology that can successfully share patient data. With these tools and the passion of those behind the programs, we can help make a difference in the opioid epidemic. Thank you, our devoted listeners, for tuning in each week to help us get our message out and be a resource to help those who are fighting the battle of addiction and to their loved ones.
We’ve profiled many programs on our series that are designed to get people into treatment for substance use disorder. We’ve done episodes on QRT teams in Colerain Ohio, the DART program in Toledo, the PAARI program from Gloucester, Massachusetts, Safe Stations in Manchester, New Hampshire and AnchorED in Providence, Rhode Island. The goal of each of these programs is to get people get into treatment. But what if they’re not ready? Today Greg interviews Brendan Cox, the Director of Policing Strategies for LEAD (Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion), a program that begins before someone is ready for treatment.
L.E.A.D offers multiple support services, including transitional housing or even drug treatment, to offenders to get them on a guided path towards behavioral change. This form of treatment is in response to various public health issues, such as untreated mental illness, addiction, poverty and homelessness. In loosening the dependence on the justice system, programs such as LEAD have increased the effectiveness of treatment and provided additional opportunities to individuals that previously they may not have had.
The impact of the opioid epidemic continues to change faces and affect our nation. One area that has been devastated by the crisis specifically is corporate America. With the economy growing, it has been a struggle to fill all the available positions with qualified candidates who can pass a drug test. An organization in Richmond, Indiana has taken a new approach to this issue.
In February 2018, Belden, Inc. launched an innovative new work program to offer treatment to applicants who initially failed the drug screening process. The Belden program Pathways to Employment assists participants in a personalized drug rehabilitation program that leads to an employment opportunity once the program is completed. This helps support each individual through their treatment and encourages a lifestyle of sobriety. Joining Greg to discuss the story and launch of Pathways is Doug Brenneke and Leah Tate of Belden. Hear how innovative programs, such as Pathways to Employment, are changing lives and establishing a future for those seeking help.
In the second half of 2016, the opioid epidemic ravaged Northeast Ohio as bad as anywhere in the country. It was said that 130 Summit County residents per week sought help after overdosing. On this podcast, Greg met with Raynard Packard, founder of the Packard Institute. Launching in 2007, the aim of the Packard Institute was to change the shape and form of recovery.
Packard grew tired of the failing treatment plans that facilities provide for their patients. These traditional programs follow the same outlined treatment for everyone and being a recovering addict himself, Packard knew why these plans often failed. Recognizing each person’s unique needs and struggles, the approach of the Packard Institute is to customize treatment based on the individual. This model integrates family, community and a tribe into the recovery journey to help support each person and ensure their success.
Mercy Health serves communities in Ohio and Kentucky, two of the top five states for overdose rates in the nation. And last year was the worst on record for opioid overdose deaths in Hamilton County, where Mercy Health is headquartered. But the tide may be turning.
When it became clear that treating, stabilizing and releasing overdose victims who came to their ED wasn’t working, Mercy Health decided to make some wholesale changes to their approach to addressing addiction as a healthcare provider and they’re beginning to see the payoff. In this podcast, Greg talks with leaders from Mercy Health to learn about their new approach to helping those struggling with substance use disorder through a program they rolled out system-wide by the name of the Mercy Health Addiction Treatment Collaborative.
Joining Greg on this podcast are Dr. Navdeep Kang, Mercy Health Director of Operations for Behavioral Health Services in Cincinnati, Ohio, Dr. Larry Graham, President of Behavioral Health at Mercy Health and the co-founder and CEO of Cincinnati-based FindLocalTreatment.com, Raj Gupta. Tune in to learn how the Mercy Health Addiction Treatment Collaborative program provides treatment-on-demand through a coordinated network of providers.
It is estimated that there are currently between 35,000-50,000 active online drug sellers today. Many of these companies are even selling medication without requiring an evaluation from a physician. The World Health Organization has cited that 50% of all online prescription medication is actually counterfeit and is even sold by websites that hide their physical address. Counterfeiting pharmaceutical drugs is a public safety threat that affects us on a global scale and is estimated to be worth roughly $75 billion. Patients that have purchased unsafe medicine from any of these illegitimate sources have been harmed, and in some cases killed.
For this week’s podcast, Greg spoke with Marjorie Clifton, Executive Director of the Center for Safe Internet Pharmacies. Founded in 2011, this diverse group of internet service providers and technology companies have taken on the global fight against selling illegitimate medication over the internet. Hear how this crisis has even spread to the “dark web” and is threatening the safety of online pharmaceutical sales.
Previously on the Cover2 Podcast, we discussed the article “Meet the ‘Kratom Warriors’ Who Say This Plant Will End the Opioid Epidemic” written by Azeen Ghorayshi. She discusses Kratom and the way that former users have turned to it to help curb withdrawal symptoms and stay clean on the journey to sobriety. Outlined in the article is Courtney True, a user of over 27 years, who turned to Kratom in an effort to battle her addiction to opioids. True credits her recovery, and her family’s recovery to using this plant.
Join Greg and Courtney as they discuss the benefits of using Kratom on the steps to recovery and find out how many have turned to this herb in an attempt to fight addiction. Hear how many, including Courtney and her loved ones, have turned their lives around by incorporating Kratom into their everyday lives.
An article surfaced on Buzzfeed News last month on Kratom, a substance that former drug users have adopted in order to curb cravings and get off opioids. It has been trending in the news and developed a following online. Some claim it is a safer alternative to opioids and that it is a “natural herb.” Unfortunately, there are still many unknowns about this substance. Long-term effects are still unclear and the possibility of it being banned by the FDA have come up in the discussion.
Greg was joined by Azeen Ghorayshi, BuzzFeed News Reporter. Ghorayshi authored the article “Meet the ‘Kratom Warriors’ Who Say This Plant Will End the Opioid Epidemic.” The two discuss the history of Kratom, its components and the ongoing debate of if it can be used as a safer alternative.
We’ve all heard the statistics that 64,000 people lost their lives to drug addiction in 2016. It is extremely startling considering that this is more than guns, HIV infection and automobile accidents. These same statistics have been used to shape a narrative in America that over prescribing opioids is the primary cause of the opioid epidemic. But what if these statistics are wrong and the laws restricting opioid prescribing practices are making matters worse rather than helping to solve the problem.
Greg’s guest today is a scientist who picks data apart that concluded the evidence does not support the conclusions and policies driven to address the opioid epidemic. Dr. Josh Bloom joins him to discuss the concerns of the data being skewed. Dr. Bloom is the Director of Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences at the American Council on Science & Health. Bloom believes the 64,000 statistic is flawed and there are other factors at play in the opioid crisis.
Addiction can happen to anyone regardless of class, upbringing and environment. It is a battle that can ravage communities, as well as families. Last November, an article written by Retired Admiral James Winnefeld spoke on the effects of the opioid epidemic and how it has personally impacted his life. His article entitled “No Family Is Safe from This Epidemic” tells the story of Admiral Winnefeld’s son Jonathon and his battle with opioid abuse. This week Greg sat down with The Admiral to discuss the article and also, Jonathon’s story. He states that “As an admiral I helped run the most powerful military on Earth, but I couldn’t save my son from the scourge of opioid addiction.”
After the loss of Jonathon, The Winnefeld Family founded S.A.F.E. (Stop the Addiction Fatality Epidemic) to not only honor his memory but to be a support system for families that have loved ones struggling with this disease. Listen to hear the Winnefeld’s story and also how S.A.F.E. is reaching out to communities to make a difference and help fight this crisis that our nation has been fighting for so long.
In today’s podcast we look at another innovative program featured in the CityLab article, “The Race to Learn What’s Really Happening in the Opioid Crisis,” an app known as the Overdose Detection Mapping Application Program. Also known as ODMAP, this app gives first responders the ability to document overdose-related data in real time. Greg talks with Linda Poon about this tool and how it allows city officials and law enforcement to have nearly real-time access to overdose data enabling them to pinpoint where people are overdosing so that cities can target their interventions better.
Greg also talks with Tom Carr, Executive Director of High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA), who led development of the ODMAP program. Tom shares his insight into how this innovative program was developed and the role it now plays in preventing overdoses. Today there are over 1,300 users of ODMAP in 37 states and 34,000 documented overdoses. ODMAP is available free of charge to help communities fight the opioid epidemic and prevent it from spreading further.
The opioid crisis has been devastating the United States for over twenty years now. Unfortunately, one of the reasons the crisis has been so severe is because the data has been significantly flawed. Greg joins Linda Poon, Assistant Editor at City Lab, to discuss her article “The Race to Learn What’s Really Happening in the Opioid Crisis.” Poon speaks to the city of Cary, NC and how it is using an experimental robot called the Biobot to mine data. One of the ways Cary is tracking and gathering data is by placing the Biobot in manholes around the city to collect samples of wastewater. These sewage samples are being tested for the concentration of opioid metabolites, which is what gets flushed out of the system after the person consumes opioids.
Also commenting on the podcast is Mike Bajorek, the Deputy Town Manager for Cary, NC. Bajorek commented on the fact that Biobot is able to deliver data in real time and also pinpoint the demographics from the locations the samples are coming from to build a new set of data. This gives city officials the ability to pinpoint regions within Cary to see what opioids are being used, where they are being used and how much people are using. With this unique dataset, cities can target how and where to delegate resources that will help fight the epidemic.
Opioid prescribing report cards for physicians and requirements for insurance providers to cover alternatives to opioids for pain management including acupuncture and chiropractor visits are a couple of the innovations in new state laws passed to fight the opioid epidemic. Policymakers throughout the country have begun confronting the opioid crisis through new creative legislation.
Recently Greg met with Brian Allen, a policy expert and VP of Government affairs for Mitchell International. Allen advises lawmakers within the pharmaceutical industry, insurance issues and also those that deal with worker’s compensation. He provides insight into new regulations and legislation, publishes industry materials and also speaks at various conferences across the nation. In this podcast, Allen addresses some of the laws that various states have passed and innovative guidelines that have helped confront the opioid epidemic in America in hopes to bring about change.
This week’s podcast features Brandon Chrostowski, founder of Edwins Leadership & Restaurant Institute. Edwins is an organization that exists to provide skilled training and a number of resources to ex-offenders. 6 million people in the US are imprisoned or under community control and face dozens of obstacles after their release. Employment is one of the largest obstacles they face when attempting to re enter society. It is a vital aspect of their journey because it can help ensure that these offenders don’t become repeat offenders upon their release. Unfortunately, about 60% of ex-offenders are still unemployed up to a year after imprisonment.
Edwins seeks to give these people a second chance. Their belief is that every human being deserves a fair and equal future, regardless of their past. Hear how this foundation is equipping individuals with skills and resources that will open up countless opportunities that would otherwise be unavailable to them.
This week Greg sat down with Dr. Pat Ensminger to discuss an alternative therapy for pain treatment. It is fairly common to treat non-cancerous pain with prescription opioids. Unfortunately, one in four patients struggle with addiction to these medicines, as millions of prescriptions are written each year for pain. Chiropractic care is a drug-free, yet extremely effective alternative form of treatment.
Dr. Ensminger discusses how chiropractors are introducing a new standard of care to break the dependency on opioids for pain management, even in the emergency room. North America consumes roughly 90% of the world’s opioid medicines, which is sometimes due to an individual seeking a “quick fix.” Often times a chiropractic plan can alleviate pain with treatment, and in some cases, even fix the problem better than prescription drugs. Hear how this strategic treatment can stop the dependency on pain pills and prevent putting people in danger of opioid addiction.
This week’s podcast features Ken Daniels, Detroit Red Wings broadcaster, who discusses patient brokering and the devastating effects of The Florida Shuffle. Ken speaks of his son Jamie and the Jamie Daniels Foundation, in hopes that others will hear his story and avoid the dangers of being exploited.
Patient brokering is when a drug rehab facility pays a third party for referring a patient to their establishment, but the treatment facility is solely focused on their finances. This has become a serious issue in the addiction treatment industry, especially in the state of Florida.
Listen to Jamie’s story and hear how he battled addiction, while getting caught up in patient brokering. Hear how to avoid falling victim to the corrupt cycle and hopefully help a loved one get the treatment they need and deserve.
This week’s podcast features John Mabry, director of Public Outreach for the Addiction Campuses. John has a degree in counseling, an award-winning public speaker and a background in the film industry. Rubbing shoulders with A-listers and working twelve years in the Screen Actors Guild, he seemed to have everything in his life going for him. He even landed a job working with best-selling financial author Dave Ramsey. All that changed for John in March 2011.
Listen to John’s story and hear of his descent into addiction, struggles with mental health and how he uses his hardships to help others today. Find out how one tragic car accident and the death of his brother inspired John to lead a Drug-Free Workplace Training initiative that is changing lives forever.
Dr. Faye Jamali is a soccer mom. An anesthesiologist. A friend. A wife. By all accounts, she had it all going for her. But a fluke accident and a trip to the ER, started her down a path to addiction that changed everything. In 2007, Dr. Jamali was attending a birthday party when she slipped and fell, breaking her wrist. An excessive amount of painkillers were prescribed and she noticed life got easier when she took the medication. Her stress levels diminished and she began abusing pain medication more to numb her feelings than relieve pain. This was only the beginning.
Dr. Jamali says addiction completely snuck up on her. What started as something to ease the pain quickly took over as habit-forming. She states “I truly believe something broke in my brain. I feel like it got high jacked.” She quickly began to rationalize the situation and her lifestyle. In her mindset, she was not an addict. As a licensed physician, she didn’t seem to fit the mold. In this podcast from Cover2 Resources, we hear the story of Dr. Faye Jamali abusing, denying and struggling through her battle with addiction. With the help of a comprehensive rehab program tailored towards her situation, Dr. Jamali was able to receive the help that she needed. Listen to how Dr. Jamali found recovery and learn about her work today helping others in the medical profession.
The fear inherent in searching for help for an opioid addiction should not include the additional worry of becoming exploited. But then, “should” is a meaningless word. There are unscrupulous players in the treatment industry eager to turn suffering into money.
On this edition of the Cover2 PPT podcast, Greg welcomes Palm Beach County State Attorney Dave Aronberg back to the program. to discuss the scourge of patient brokering. He offers advice on how to avoid being victimized and describes the work that is being done by the Sober Homes Task Force to protect the community.
Aronberg calls patient brokering “pay to play.” At its base, it is a marketing ploy to lure, bribe, and trade in a scam known as the Florida Shuffle. It’s illegal and it can put lives in danger. The shuffle is no longer isolated just to Florida. It’s a scam that is spreading, and Aronberg offers advice on how to recognize it. Where do I go for help? How do I know if the facility I’m considering is legal and responsible? How do I approach my due diligence to find out the answers to these questions?
For those interested in social advocacy to change a system that supports and allows people to profit from such abuse, Aronberg and Greg discuss the work being done to encourage government at the state and national level to do more than just throw money at the problem.
Greg is joined by Dr. Howard Wetsman, an addiction psychiatrist that explains the biological process of dealing with any form of addiction. Dr. Wetsman is the author of Questions and Answers on Addiction. Genetics play a large role in whether or not someone will struggle with addiction in their lifetime but unfortunately genetics are so often ignored.
Dr. Howard Wetsman envisions a day when people no longer struggle with addiction. He has been actively treating addiction in facilities ranging from inpatient units, charity hospitals and HIV clinics.
Join Greg and Dr. Wetsman as they discuss why it is important to start understanding the brain illness called addiction. In this episode, Greg also undergoes genetic testing provided by the Addiction Lab of American Addiction Centers and discusses the results with Dr. Wetsman.
Greg is joined by Eric Hicks, the Plant Manager at Jones Plastic & Engineering located in Benton County, Tennessee. Hicks was new to the plant when he was immediately faced with high turnover and absenteeism rates. Unfortunately, this was not unusual for this rural area with its limited population and heavy drug use.
The opioid crisis is taking a toll on American businesses and has affected many manufacturers in our country. Hicks tells the story of how he was faced with unfamiliar challenges and how he did not take the more obvious route of terminating those who failed a drug test. In Benton County, terminating each individual was just not an option.
At the time, the plant he ran employed about 225 people with 75% of those people being there for less than a year. On a daily basis, absenteeism was at 15% and the overall turnover rate was at 75%. As a direct result, the plant was not meeting their expected quality and performance levels. “I could not hire my way out of this issue”, says Hicks.
Listen as Hicks discusses what he did to turn a bad situation into a manageable one, which resulted in helping many employees that needed proper treatment.
In 2016, more than 63,000 people died of drug overdoses in the United States, more than triple from 2000. Among the many cities that are affected by this crisis, Philadelphia has been drastically affected. Greg is joined by Dr. Tom Farley, the Commissioner of the Philadelphia Department of Health. Dr. Farley says that the opioid epidemic has surpassed the AIDS epidemic that was sweeping Philly in the 1990’s and surpasses the amount of deaths from the entire Vietnam War.
Since Dr. Farley is the Commissioner of the Philadelphia Health Department, he considers himself the “doctor” of the city and is on a mission to help illuminate how Philly can take an active role in combating this epidemic through harm reduction programs. He says that they surveyed the general population of the city and found out that one-third received opioid prescriptions, and 1 in 7 were currently taking opioids. Many of those are predicted to graduate to heroin.
They started a plan in the Fall of 2016 to find new ways to help the city control the epidemic and prevent people from dying. The Mayor appointed about 20 task force members which were joined by 150 people that have been affected by the opioid crisis to come up with recommendations. After much hard work, there were 18 recommendations that were concluded from the committee to help their city and communities. The final report and 18 recommendations will be published along with this episode.
Some of the recommendations include prevention, education, low-barrier housing, medical intervention, and overdose prevention (to name a few). Listen and learn more about the plans for the city of Philadelphia, along with other controversies they think will lead to positive change during this national crisis.
Greg is joined by Amy Dresner, a former professional stand-up comic who appeared at the Comedy Store, The Laugh Factory and the Improv. She is most recently known as the author of “My Fair Junkie: A Memoir of Getting Dirty and Staying Clean” where she describes her struggles with addiction, and the extreme circumstances that led her to sobriety.
Amy’s book is brutally honest about addiction and how it affected her life. Amy tells Greg about the arrest that led her down an even darker path. She explains how her mandatory community service was life-changing, humbling, and when she started to realize the depth of her situation. Her epiphany came during those hours which has led to living a sober life.
Listen as Greg talks to Amy about her journey and how it was like living with addiction and what she has done to overcome those challenges. Those who have read her book and other publishing’s have said it has helped them feel less ashamed, less alone and they appreciate her brutally honesty when it comes to addiction.
Greg is joined by Matt Ruth, the Chief Commercial Officer at Adapt Pharma, a privately-held company committed to expanding affordable access to NARCAN Nasal Spray. NARCAN is the brand name for Naloxone, which is a formulation used by first responders to reverse an overdose.
During this episode they discuss the stigma attached to the use of this product, and Greg touches on the subject of the marketplace exploiting this opportunity to increase prices. Matt says that Adapt Pharma’s price has remained the same since the beginning and that they are working to make sure this solution is offered at an affordable price.
The goal for Adapt Pharma is to create more awareness about this product so that friends and families affected by the opioid crisis know about the reversal agent. In addition, they propose that all law enforcement should carry Naloxone because of the risk of the job and being exposed to Fentanyl.
When someone is brought back from an overdose there is a window of opportunity to get them the treatment that they need to overcome their addiction. Matt says, “Naloxone is not a solution for treatment, but hopefully a bridge to treatment.” The ultimate goal is to save a life and hope that they have the proper treatment for another chance.
In honor of the FREE showing of ‘How To Be A Respectable Junkie’ that takes place this coming Thursday, April 19th, we are re-releasing Episode 104 featuring Greg Vovos.
Greg is the playwright and director of HTBARJ and will be putting on the show at the Cuyahoga County Public Library (Parma Branch, 2121 Snow Road), you can register for the FREE showing here
Greg interviews Greg Vovos, a playwright and director who has worked in Cleveland theater since 1998. While Greg has written a myriad of plays, he’s also worked consistently for the Theatre of Healthy Living at the Fine Arts Association; crafting plays for high schools, detention centers, and youth prisons about issues like racism, teen pregnancy, obesity, and drug and alcohol abuse. His most recent play, titled “How to Be a Respectable Junkie,” at the Cuyahoga County Public Library in Parma, tells the story of Brian, a heroin addict set on taking his own life to spare everyone around him from his problems.
Listen to the podcast to discover how through his friendship, playwright Vovos was able to craft a play about the day-to-day realities of someone living with substance use disorder.
Greg interviews Dr. Nora Volkow, Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) who has also been named one of Time Magazine’s “Top 100 People Who Shape Our World.” Focusing on the science of addiction and the effects it can have on the human brain, Dr. Volkow discusses how physically addiction can take hold of the person and how each person has a unique fight with addiction due to their genetic makeup. Some environments can have a direct impact on each situation. Whether you come from an extremely protective environment or an environment of neglect, these elements can have a direct effect on your battle with addiction.
Take a listen to discover more about the science and anatomy of addiction and how we as a community can support others through their battle.
The week of April 9th through the 13th, Summit County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services Board (ADM) recognizes the first responders. These are the individuals on the frontlines of the opioid epidemic, and the first responders who witness the effects of the crisis firsthand. Greg McNeil sat down with Jerry Craig, Executive Director of the ADM Board, and with Barberton Police Chief, Vince Morber. The panel discussed the role of the quick response teams (QRTs) and how they took off, especially in Summit County. The QRTs partnered with the Fire Department to assist overdose victims and added another aspect to their plan by following-up. Chief Morber stated that, “You show up at a time that is a non-crisis situation, and [by doing so] you bring a message of caring.” People are more receptive to treatment when they see genuine concern and how these quick response teams come back multiple times after an overdose visit. It shows that these first responders are truly here to help and offer support.
In the past two years, safety forces have responded to 4,700 overdoses within the community. This was an open door to deploy the quick response teams. In 2017, ten jurisdictions with QRTs made 2,986 post overdose visits to try and offer help to the victims. The community is encouraged to share messages and get involved in showing appreciation for those fighting the epidemic so selflessly and courageously.
Listen to the podcast here and learn more about First Responders Appreciation Week.
Greg sat down with New York Times best-selling author David Sheff to discuss the devastating effects the opioid epidemic has had on families. Sheff has also been named one Time Magazine’s “Top 100 Most Influential People,” and is no stranger to the opioid crisis. His award-winning books “Clean: Overcoming Addiction and Ending America's Greatest Tragedy” and the memoir “Beautiful Boy: A Father's Journey Through His Son's Addiction” have made their literary mark and “Beautiful Boy” also won Barnes and Noble’s “Discover Great New Writers Award. During the podcast, Sheff discussed the stigma that unfortunately society has placed on those that are fighting addiction. He reminded listeners that the opioid crisis is an actual epidemic in that people are battling a disease. It is not only a mental battle, but a battle against genetics and environmental influence. This is not an internal fight, nor should those that battle addiction, fight with shame or secrecy. The hard facts are most programs don’t have the medical resources to fight the epidemic. Sheff stated, “In many programs, a person can go into treatment and they never, ever see a doctor.” It is a shocking realization that someone fighting a disease often goes without medical attention. Almost everyone ends up in a program that may not be fully equipped to help them. The two discussed treatment methods and how the plans need to be as unique as each individual, as everyone is fighting their own battle in various ways. Listen to today’s podcast for more great ways Sheff and McNeil discuss treatment options and resources for those taking on addiction.
Welcome to the 5th and final episode in our five-part podcast series on the Showtime program “The TRADE,” a docu-series providing a front row seat to the opioid epidemic through the eyes of those most affected. We invite you to Binge, Listen and Share this series to make a difference in the opioid epidemic.
First: Binge on all 5 episodes of The TRADE available for free at Cover2.org.
Next: Listen to the podcasts with back stories from each episode and related programs that are making a difference in the opioid epidemic.
And: Share with those you know, to make a difference in the opioid epidemic.
In this final episode in our series on The TRADE we revisit the Franklin County Sheriff's Department to talk about investigating drug dealers and the HOPE task force. Next, we’ll hear about Quick Response Teams and why they work so well to get people into treatment from Dan Meloy, one of the originators of QRT teams. Later we’ll revisit Jen Walton from Atlanta to get an update on Skyler’s story and Richard Confer in Dayton to hear more on Brittany’s success. We close our series with a song from emerging Country Music CMA Award winning artist Shane Runion and his hit song about compassion, forgiveness and recovery. It’s called “Tattoos”.
This is the fourth episode of our five-part series on the Showtime original program “The TRADE,” a docu-series providing a front row seat to the opioid epidemic through the eyes of those most affected: the growers and cartel bosses, addicts and their families and law enforcement. In this episode, once again veteran documentary producer Pagan Harleman, who serves as executive producer of The TRADE, offers her insights and the backstories behind episode 4.
Following the introduction to today’s episode from Pagan, we hear from Recovery Coach, John Stuckey, who provides insight and analysis on the role of a recovery coach. Later, we talk with Barb, Andrew’s aunt about her role in connecting Andrew with drug court. Next, we talk with Judge Tom Teodosio about Andrew’s participation in the Turning Point drug court. We conclude this episode once again with remarks from Pagan Harleman.
Listen as Greg explores the stories behind episode 4 of The TRADE and profiles people, places and things making a difference in the opioid epidemic.
This is the third episode of our five-part series on the Showtime original program “The TRADE,” a docu-series providing a front row seat to the opioid epidemic through the eyes of those most affected: the growers and cartel bosses, addicts and their families and law enforcement. In this episode, once again veteran documentary producer Pagan Harleman, who serves as executive producer of The TRADE, offers her insights and the backstories behind episode 3.
Following the introduction to today’s episode from Pagan, we hear from Family Coach, Robin Star, who provides insight and analysis of the family dynamics that play out in episode 3 between John, an addict in Atlanta who we meet in this episode and his sister and father. Later, we’re introduced to the nation’s first opioid court by Judge Craig Hannah from Buffalo New York. We conclude this episode with US Senator Rob Portman who offers hope for stopping the flow of illicit drugs into our country.
Listen as Greg explores the stories behind episode 3 of The TRADE and profiles people, places and things making a difference in the opioid epidemic.
This is the second podcast in a five-part series on the Showtime original program “The TRADE,” a docu-series that provides a front row seat to the grim realities of the opioid epidemic through the eyes of those most affected: the growers and cartel bosses, addicts and their families and law enforcement. Each podcast features an introduction by veteran documentary producer Pagan Harleman who serves as Executive Producer of The TRADE and offers backstories for each episode. She is followed by interviews with subject matter experts on issues related to each TRADE episode.
In this episode, Pagan shares additional insight into the back story behind the drug cartels in Guererro, Mexico, the primary location for shooting conversations with growers. Next, Greg speaks with Brian Bailys, founder of Ascent, who together with Dr. Joan Papp from Cleveland MetroHealth, created a program to fast track overdose victims from the E.D. into treatment. Next, Greg interviews Judge Tony Capizzi, who runs a family court that is reclaiming futures for parents with opioid dependence in Dayton, Ohio. We close out this episode with Richard, who founded a successful treatment center in Dayton, Ohio when he could not find a program to help his daughter recover.
Listen as Greg explores these emotional stories that cover a wide stretch of territory on the opioid epidemic battleground.
Greg interviews emerging CMA award winning artist, Shane Runion. Shane talks about growing up in Portsmouth, Ohio and the journey from 8th grade history teacher to a Country Music Award winning artist in little more than two years.
Shane helped his struggling community go after a multi-million dollar grant by recording a music video for his song, “I’m Proud of Where I’m From,” about small-town U.S.A. and the people that make up the city known for southern hospitality. The goal was to simply boost local morale, but the video quickly went viral. That break gave Runion the opportunity to take a chance he had only yet dared to dream. Shane also details the back story behind his favorite work: “Tattoos”. Next, Shane shares the story of how doing a concert for the Drug Free Clubs of America (DFCA) in Ross County turned into a tour with concerts at Drug Free Clubs in 38 school districts.
Listen as Shane shares his incredible, improbable rise to award winning country music artist and enjoy his latest hit “Tattoos” on episode #168 of the Cover2 PPT podcast series.
This is the first episode in a five-part series on the Showtime original program “The TRADE,” a docu-series providing a front row seat to the grim realities of the opioid epidemic through the eyes of those most affected: the growers and cartel bosses, addicts and their families and law enforcement. Each podcast features an introduction by veteran documentary producer Pagan Harleman who serves as executive producer of The TRADE and offers backstories for each episode. She is followed by interviews with subject matter experts on issues related to each TRADE episode. Listen as Greg explores these emotional stories that cover a wide stretch of territory on the opioid epidemic battleground.
In this very honest conversation, Greg talks to Darryl Strawberry who opens up about his life struggles which began in early childhood and reached into his highly successful baseball career. He was suspended three times for drug abuse during his 17 years in the league, but since then, he has walked the challenging road to recovery and turned his life around. He shares with Greg his journey involving an alcoholic father who abused him physically and emotionally before leaving when Darryl was 13, and the consequential pain he carried inside. Through his experiences, he is able to offer tremendous insight and clarity about the recovery process.
Greg learns about the key role supportive people play in the lives of those trying to overcome addiction. “It takes people to help people,” Darryl explains. He also details why recovery can’t happen overnight, and how the compassion of others is pivotal. Part of his recovery process involved bringing faith into his life and achieving growth through the church’s teachings that relate to commitment and discipline.
Darryl supports the recovery process through resources available at FindingYourWay.com and StrawberryMinistries.org. He also published the book Don’t Give Up on Me, Shedding Light on Addiction.
In this new episode, Greg talks to Barbara Marsh, the assistant to the health commissioner in Dayton and Jody Long, the director of behavioral health treatment and support services for the Montgomery County Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health Services. They discuss how their two respective departments came together to form COAT in 2016, which has proven to be a very effective and comprehensive program that’s preventing deaths at the hands of the opioid epidemic. Join Greg as he learns how this program was established and what it means to the community it serves. They explore the collective impact model and the national incident management system (NIMS) which guides responses to incidents and emergencies. They describe their work with 60 community partners/stakeholders who all came to the table because every sector has a vested interest since they all have been affected by the overdose problem.
In today’s podcast, Greg talks with Kimberly Fraser, Executive Director, Lake County (Ohio) Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) Board, and Jessie Baginski, Ph.D., President/CEO, Leadership Lake County. Both guests have been touched by the opioid crisis, with family members falling prey to its draconian outcomes. They are overseeing Operation Resolve, a unique program designed to help fight the opioid crisis by reaching out to employers and offering them resources with which they can engage their workforce. The educational information they provide relates to drug abuse, addiction and where to find help. Operation Resolve maintains a help line at 440.350.2000 or 440.918.2000, M-F, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. EST. The line is available to help anyone impacted directly and indirectly by addiction.
Greg learns about a new Drug Enforcement Agency program, DEA360, in an illuminating conversation with Sean Fearns, the chief of community outreach. He describes how the programming takes a comprehensive approach to breaking the cycle of drug trafficking, drug violence and drug abuse. DEA360 was first introduced in 2015 with a pilot program in Pittsburgh. Join Greg as he also learns about the pilot programs that DEA360 has introduced in key cities nationwide where the opioid crisis is most severe. He also explores Operation Prevention, a mission to educate students about the true impact of opioids and to kick start conversations in the home and classroom. Resources are available at GetSmartAboutDrugs.gov and at 360.DEA.gov
In the second of a two-part conversation, Greg interviews Judge Craig Hannah who sits on the bench in the nation’s only Opioid Court in the 8th Judicial District in Buffalo, NY. A former addict himself, now 18 years sober, Hannah details the role and efficacy of his courtroom’s daily involvement in addicts’ lives. Greg also speaks with the court’s case managers Brooke Crouse and Megan Carroll, as well as with Janet Gaskin, a case worker from Save the Michaels of the World, Inc., a resource for all aspects of addiction. Also, he speaks with Kevin, a participant in this program. Join Greg as he hears about a day in the life at Opioid Court, as shared by case managers who become involved during the first hours of sobriety where they determine what’s needed to manage each addict’s situation.
In the first of a two-part conversation, Greg interviews Jeff Smith, a leader who has affected significant change in the process by which cases belonging to those addicted to opioids are handled. Driven by the understanding that opioid addiction has dramatically different outcomes compared to any other drug use, with rapidly lethal results foremost among them, Smith describes how he has established a better approach. It involves shortening the legal process and engaging with users immediately upon arrest. By connecting them with providers and treatment options tailored for their needs, their lives can be put in turnaround. Hear Greg track the steps involved with this new approach and share in his discovery of how it has served more than 200 people in the nine months since it began. Discover the difference Smith’s new thinking is making and how it is successfully meeting the educational, vocational and counseling needs of this at-risk population.
In today’s podcast we revisit Greg’s interview with Daniel Meloy, the previous Director of Public Safety for Colerain Township in Hamilton County, Cincinnati, Ohio. During his time as the Director of Public Safety for Colerain County, Daniel was able to lead his community to a 35% decrease in overdoses and create the first Quick Response Team (QRT) – a group that has been utilized in many other communities since this episode was first released. Listen to the podcast to discover how the work Daniel and his team were doing led them to partnering with The Community Recovery Project and utilizing what they called their Recovery Resource Packets.
In today’s podcast we revisit Greg’s interview with Washington Post reporter Nicole Lewis. In 2017, Nicole wrote an article in response to President Trump’s claims that drugs would stop pouring into the country if a border wall was built. She begged to differ. “A wall won’t stop them – flat out, wrong.” Listen to the podcast to discover how the issue of drugs finding their way into the U.S. will not be solved by the construction of any variety of border wall and what can be done instead.
Greg interviews Dr. Alan Goodwin, a psychologist from Palm Beach, Florida that has spent decades in the field of addiction treatment. Dr. Goodwin recently appeared in a New York Times article titled “A Doctor with a Phone and a Mission,” about his work investigating rehab facilities in Florida, who are part of the increasingly competitive, $35 billion drug and alcohol treatment center industry. Listen to the podcast to discover what else Dr. Goodwin discovered through these calls and what can be done to combat the hard sell tactics many big businesses use in running their treatment centers.
Greg interviews Daniel Denvir, a Fellow at Harvard Law School’s Fair Punishment Project and the host of the podcast The Dig. Daniel recently wrote an article titled “These Pharmaceutical Companies are Making a Killing off the Opioid Crisis,” which discusses the price hike in Naloxone and how companies are exploiting the demand for profit.
Listen to the podcast to discover what can be done to address the problems with price gouging to make life-saving drugs like Naloxone accessible.
Greg interviews Dr. Sandra Block, a Medical Director of the Adult Pediatric Sleep Center in Buffalo Medical Group in Buffalo, New York and the author of What the Opioid Epidemic Looks Like on the Screen of a Brain Scan. Dr. Block has been practicing neurology for 20 years and recently noticed a difference in the EEGs coinciding with the rise of the opioid epidemic. Listen to the podcast to discover what causes these changes in the brain and if they can be reversed for patients who have suffered an overdose.
Greg interviews Dr. Scott Weiner, the Attending Emergency Physician and Director of B-CORE at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts . Dr. Weiner started B-CORE, short for Brigham Comprehensive Response and Education program, with the aim of creating an umbrella and uniform standard for the treatment of substance use disorder within the hospital. Listen to the podcast to discover some of the future initiatives Dr. Weiner and B-CORE hope to put in place - like prescriber benchmarking and a Bridge Clinic where people can go even without an appointment to get started on the road to longer term treatment.
Greg interviews Dr. Ann DiFrangia, a board certified physician, specializing in the treatment of substance use disorder with Akron General Hospital. Since 2011, Dr. DiFrangia has seen a rise in neo-natal mortality rates, an increase in disabilities due to infection, and sky-rocketing death rates because of the opioid epidemic sweeping Ohio. Listen to the podcast to discover what Dr. DiFrangia has discovered to be the most successful treatments for those suffering from substance use disorder.
Greg interviews Mike DeWine, the Attorney General of Ohio and staff members Alisha Nelson, Community Outreach Specialist and LeeAnne Cornyn, the director of the Children’s Initiative . In 2016 alone, 4,050 Ohio residents died as a result of unintentional drug overdoses - a 32.8% increase from 2015. Attorney General Mike DeWine has developed a 12 point plan titled Recovery Ohio in the hopes of decreasing these ever-growing numbers. Listen to the podcast to discover how this plan and the other points in Recovery Ohio are working towards a fully coordinated system to provide aid to those affected by the opioid epidemic.
Greg interviews Nan Whaley, the Mayor of the City of Dayton, Ohio. Out of the top 10 cities in the U.S. marred by the opioid epidemic, three are in Ohio and one of the top ones is Dayton. Since her election, Mayor Whaley has worked to aggressively combat the crisis sweeping the state and affecting her community. Listen to the podcast to discover how the City of Dayton has also filed a lawsuit against the pharmaceutical companies responsible for the spread of opiates throughout the community
Greg interviews Rebecca Crowder, the Executive Director of Lily’s Place. Lily’s Place is a Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) facility that provides observational, therapeutic, and pharmalogical care to infants affected by prenatal drug usage. Listen to the podcast to discover how Rebecca’s local community has started mandatory drug screening for every mother entering the hospital to give birth. And how this paired with an NAS facility like Lily’s Place is helping both infants and parents alike.
Greg continues his interview with Freddy Negrete, world renowned tattoo artist, Hollywood studio artist, and the co-author of Smile Now, Cry Later – an autobiography, co-authored with Steve Jones, about growing up in L.A. and the draw as a child towards both the empowerment of tattoos and the belonging that came with joining a gang. Listen to the podcast to discover how this arrest coupled with the continued complications from his Congestive Heart Failure led Freddy to make a permanent change and push for treatment.
Greg interviews Freddy Negrete, a Hollywood studio artist and the co-author of Smile Now, Cry Later – an autobiography he wrote with his good friend Steve Jones about growing up in L.A. and the draw as a child towards both the empowerment of tattoos, but the belonging that came with joining a gang. Listen to the podcast to discover how Freddy moved on from this experience into more serious substance abuse and then back out again.
Greg interviews Ilene Shapiro, the County Executive of Summit County. In October, Ilene declared a state of emergency over the opioid epidemic, enabling the utilization of the Emergency Operations Command Center in downtown Akron to serve as a communication and coordination hub. Listen to the podcast to discover how this state of emergency declaration has led to a lot of changes in Summit County that have allowed Ilene and her team to better utilize resources to help those suffering from substance use disorder.
Greg continues his interview with Clay Stamp, the Executive Director of the Opioid Operational Command Center in Maryland. Established under the Interagency Heroin and Opioid Coordinating Council in January 2017, the Opioid Operational Command Center works to collect, analyze, and facilitate data-sharing with State and local sources to create better strategies in their fight against the opioid epidemic. Listen to the podcast to discover how Maryland’s position on the opioid epidemic as a public health crisis is not only allowing them to create better treatment centers, but to better address the laws holding those who have suffered from substance use disorder back.
Greg interviews Clay Stamp, the Executive Director of the Opioid Operational Command Center in Maryland. Established under the Interagency Heroin and Opioid Coordinating Council in January 2017, the Opioid Operational Command Center works to collect, analyze, and facilitate data-sharing with State and local sources to create better strategies in their fight against the opioid epidemic. Listen to the podcast to discover how the Opioid Operation Command Center is working to develop better, more balanced strategies in their fight against the opioid epidemic.
Greg interviews Matthew Eacott, the Vice President of Aware Recovery Care in North Haven, Connecticut. As someone that struggled with addiction and its resulting side effects, Matt has utilized his 19 years of recovery experience to help others in their fight against substance abuse disorder. Listen to the podcast to discover how Aware Recovery Care is working to expand and make their approach to treatment more accessible to those affected by the opioid epidemic.
Greg interviews Johann Hari, bestselling author of the book Chasing the Scream, in the third episode of a three-part series. They explore the strategies belonging to other countries that have had success with helping addicts overcome their addictions, including Sweden, Portugal and Britain. In Britain, for example, the government drew on lessons learned from dealing with a large alcoholism problem during the Industrial Revolution which displaced many citizens through job loss. This led people to feel deprived and their lives became unbearable, a common theme among drug users. Join Greg as he engages in a meaningful conversation about the needs of those suffering from addiction and how they can be addressed.
Greg interviews Darshan Shah, the Chief Data Officer of the State of Indiana and the Executive Director of the Management and Performance Hub (MPH). He also speaks with Doug Huntsinger, the Special Assistant for Drug Prevention, Treatment, & Enforcement at Governor Holcomb’s Office. Through the MPH, Darshan, Doug, and the rest of the Indiana State government are able to utilize big data and analytics to make data-informed policy decisions. Listen to the podcast to discover how the MPH gets agencies to continually work together and contribute to the system in their fight against substance use disorder.
Greg interviews Johann Hari, bestselling author of the book Chasing the Scream, in the second episode of a three-part series. Since only 10% of drug users becoming addicts in the present reality where the most potent drugs are widely available in the form of oxycontin/oxycodone, how do we account for such a small minority succumbing their effects? The massive gap in what might be expected calls for an explanation, and Hari is able to offer one. Join Greg in this exploration of some new thinking regarding what’s possible when it comes to addressing successful methods to help users overcome their addiction.
Greg interviews Michael H. Robertson, a prosecutor with the Somerset County’s Prosecutor’s Office in New Jersey. Michael and his team recently repurposed an anti-bullying app called STOPit Solutions to help members in their community anonymously report crimes, drug related and otherwise. Listen to the podcast to discover how the Somerset County’s Prosecutor’s Office hopes this app will encourage community members that are unlikely to speak out finally report what they see; enabling law enforcement to be proactive rather than reactive.
Greg interviews Johann Hari, bestselling author of the book Chasing the Scream, in the first of a three-part series. Hari advocates for an end to punishing and shaming addicts, and he believes that treating them like criminals only exacerbates the problems. In this episode, they explore the history of drug laws and the consequences of them. Listen to the podcast to discover how the past is bearing on the present, and how the right solutions have not yet presented themselves and why this is the case.
Greg interviews Dr. Jamie Marich, the founder of the Institute for Creative Mindfulness. The institute offers training in the areas of mental health, trauma, addiction, mindfulness, and clinician development through programs like the EMDRIA program, which focuses on EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy. Listen to the podcast to discover how this approach is being used to help those suffering from substance use disorder shift their own mental processes.
Greg interviews Dr. Kathryn Hawk, an emergency physician and assistant professor at Yale University’s Department of Emergency Medicine. The Yale University Department of Medicine currently has a program aimed at breaking the cycle of use and reducing opioid overdoses in high risk populations. Listen to the podcast to discover how the Yale University’s Department of Medicine utilized a study of 329 patients in their pilot program to help them develop a full-blown program that is better able to treat those afflicted with substance abuse disorder.
Greg interviews Dawn Scherma and Tammy Laurer, the founder and the president of Dawn’s Early Light. Dawn’s Early Light is an assistance program that aims to provide financial help and guidance to those suffering from substance abuse disorder. Listen to the podcast to discover how Dawn and Tammy managed the opioid dependence of their children and then channeled that energy and knowledge into helping others.
On January 6th 2017, Greg interviewed Lenny Bernstein, a journalist for the Washington Post. Lenny discussed the force behind the opioid epidemic ravaging rural American communities. During his investigation, his team discovered that multiple drug distribution companies were giving rural pharmacies far more pills than they could possibly sell or store. But how could this happen unchecked? “As we dug into these cases,” Lenny explained, “we found that the DEA, their own employees, state boards and pharmacies had warned them… It was very obvious that [the companies] had to know, because these emails were going up to their headquarters.” On Sunday October 15th 2017, 60 Minutes released a joint broadcast with the Washington Post, where they interviewed former DEA agent Joe Rannazzisi. In the interview, Rannazzisi revisits Bernstein’s initial finds, revealing the behind the scenes battle between the DEA, Congress, and large pharmaceutical distributors that’s enabled the opioid epidemic to continue sweeping the nation. In light of this, we are re-releasing our Cover2 Podcast with Lenny Bernstein. We hope you enjoy.
Greg interviews Katie Park, the Ashtabula County Prevention Coalition Coordinator, as well as two clinical supervisors – Matt Butler from Community Counseling and Jennifer Simpson from Signature Health. Katie, Matt, and Jennifer have been working within Ashtabula County to help treat those affected by the opioid epidemic. Listen to the podcast to discover how the Prevention Coalition is evaluating actual data from their community and using it to develop strategies to better educate, prevent, and treat those hit by the opioid crisis in Ashtabula.
Greg continues his interview with Maurice Clarett, the former Ohio State running back who led the team in 2002 to an undefeated season and their first national championship in 36 years. Following his first year at OSU, Maurice struggled with substance abuse, eventually culminating in imprisonment. He now educates and empowers others to achieve their goals through public speaking. Listen to the podcast to discover how the Red Zone also works to get patients involved in the community so they can integrate their everyday life into their treatment.
Greg interviews Kristen Schenker, a licensed social worker and the current clinical supervisor at Glenbeigh. Glenbeigh is a drug and alcohol rehabilitation specialty hospital following the philosophy that those suffering from substance abuse disorder can develop a lifestyle outside of their chemical dependence. Listen to the podcast to discover how Glenbeigh’s programs offer highly specialized and individualized care, giving patient’s the skills to support themselves and transform their lives.
Greg interviews Maurice Clarett, the former Ohio State running back who led the team in 2002 to an undefeated season and their first national championship in 36 years. Following his first year at OSU, Maurice struggled with substance abuse, eventually culminating in imprisonment. He now educates and empowers others to achieve their goals through public speaking. Listen to the podcast to discover how Maurice handled his time away from the sport as well as his time in prison, and how both events shifted his priorities.
Greg interviews John Stuckey, the President of ARCHway Institute. ARCHway is a non-profit whose vision is to bring the treatment of mental health and addictive orders into the realm of mainstream medicine - similar to the treatment of other chronic lifestyle diseases such as obesity and diabetes. Listen to the podcast to discover how self-medicating and consistent opioid use can re-wire the brain and lead to substance abuse disorder. As well as how drugs like Vivitrol can help those suffering from opioid dependence reclaim their lives.
Greg interviews Dr. Darin Neven, an emergency department physician practicing at Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, Washington. Dr. Neven explores the need to change the culture and practice in terms of treatment for substance use disorders in general and opioid addiction in particular. He points to one effective method to identifying a problem is through Washington’s state-wide tracking of patients’ ED visits, following their appearance pattern and history Listen to the podcast to discover how the issue of opioid addiction treatment is shifting and success is being found with Suboxone.
Greg interviews Nicole Lewis, Washington Post reporter for the Fact Checker feature. In an article she bylined that was published 9/11/2017, she responded to President Trump’s claim that drugs would stop pouring into this country if we built a border wall, which was one of his campaign’s signature promises. She begs to differ. “A wall won’t stop them – flat out, wrong.” Listen to the podcast to discover how the issue of drugs finding their way into the U.S. will not be obviated by the construction of any variety of border wall, according to Nicole’s extensive research and reporting.
Greg interviews Keary McCarthy, the Executive Director of the Ohio Mayors Alliance. The Ohio Mayors Alliance is a coalition of mayors from Ohio’s 30 largest urban and suburban communities, which works to advance priority policies, strengthen economic vibrancy, and better advocate for local communities through collaboration and communication. Listen to the podcast to discover what the Mayors Alliance learned from this report and how they are utilizing that information to improve policy and combat the growing epidemic sweeping through Ohio communities.
Greg interviews Dr. Jay Butler, the Chief Medical Officer and Director of the Division of Public Health at the Alaska Department of Health and Human Services. He is also the Chairman of the Alaska Opioid Policy Task Force, a partnership between the Alaskan Advisory Board on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse, Mental Health Trust, and the Department of Health and Social Services, aiming to combat the rising incidence of heroin and opioid abuse in Alaska. Listen to the podcast to discover how this state of emergency declaration works and how it has enabled Alaska to develop and carry out programs to help fight the opioid epidemic throughout the state.
Greg interviews Mike Tobin, the Community and Public Affairs Specialist with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Cleveland, OH. As the Community and Public Affairs Specialist, Mike oversees the office’s interactions with both the media and the community, covering a multitude of high profile cases, including those relating to the opioid epidemic. Listen to the podcast to discover how law enforcement and the Department of Justice are going undercover to take down online communities devoted to illegal trading and the sale of drugs.
Greg interviews Gary Mendell, the founder of HEI Hotels & Resorts and Shatterproof, a non-profit organization dedicated to working for policy change to help combat the opioid epidemic. Mr. Mendell created Shatterproof in honor of his son Brian, who lost his battle to substance abuse in 2011. Listen to the podcast to discover how Mr. Mendell and Shatterproof are building a coalition of organizations to create an infrastructure to measure which processes work best for those fighting against substance abuse disorder.
Greg interviews Rene Elefteriou, a resident of Parma, Ohio that started the program B.A. FORCE, Battling Addiction Families of Recovering Children & Education. B.A. FORCE was created to help families affected by the opioid epidemic, as well as those suffering or recovering from substance abuse disorder.
Listen to the podcast to discover how Rene and those working with B.A. FORCE are inspiring others in Parma and the greater Northeast Ohio area to reach out, seek help, and speak about their experiences to spread awareness.
Greg interviews Michael Summers, the mayor of Lakewood, Ohio - an inner ring suburb right outside downtown Cleveland. Since 2015, the number of opioid overdoses in Lakewood has more than tripled, and Mayor Summers and his team have developed a new program called SOAR (Supporting Opiate Addiction Recovery) to combat the growing crisis. Listen to the podcast to discover how the community of Lakewood is continuing to work together to build awareness and support for those affected by the opioid epidemic.
Greg interviews Lydia Ramsey, a reporter for Business Insider, covering pharmaceutical, biotech industries, and healthcare. He also interviews Jay Ruais, the Chief Operating Officer and Vice President of Government Affairs for the Addiction Policy Forum in Washington, D.C. Both Lydia and Jay have closely followed Congress’ decisions on healthcare reform. Listen to the podcast to discover how the government aims to continue its commitment to funding programs that aid in the opioid epidemic, and how granting states waivers can help in the process.
Greg interviews Thom Olmstead, the Director of University Partner Collaborations at St. Vincent Charity Medical Center, as well as Orlando Howard, the Manager of Outpatient Treatment Services at Rosary Hall. The St. Vincent Charity Medical Center and Rosary Hall are currently running a pilot program that offers free Uber rides to those in Intensive Out Patient Program (IOP) Treatment. Listen to the podcast to discover how this program is directly affecting IOP treatment patient’s lives and how it helps keep those recovering from substance abuse disorder stay on track.
Greg interviews Dr. Doug Nemecek, the Chief medical officer of CIGNA’s Behavioral Health Business. Dr. Nemecek, along with CIGNA, has worked to create a program to cut down on the amount of opioids prescribed to patients. Listen to the podcast to discover how this program is not only helping to reduce overprescribing and treat substance abuse disorders, but is also eliminating the stigma of substance abuse disorder and opioid use disorder being a character flaw.
Dr. Phyllis Hendry is a tenured Professor of Emergency Medicine and Pediatrics at the University of Florida College of Medicine in Jacksonville. She completed her pediatric residency at Louisiana State University Medical Center in Shreveport followed by a pediatric emergency medicine fellowship at University of Florida Health Science Center/Jacksonville. She served as Director of Pediatric Emergency Services at UF Health from 1993-2005 and since 2008 has been Assistant Chair for Emergency Medicine Research. In March 2016 she was appointed TraumaOne Deputy Medical Director of Pediatric Transport.
Listen to the podcast to discover how P.A.M.I. provides both physicians and patients with free access to pain management education videos, dosing guides, and discharge plans to make sure patients are fully aware of their options.
Greg interviews Dr. Sarah Friebert, the Director of Pediatric Palliative Care at Akron Children’s Hospital. The Pediatric Palliative Care Center provides care to children that are affected by complex, chronic, or serious conditions.
Listen to the podcast to discover how Dr. Friebert and her team at Akron Children's Hospital are building community care to combat the growing opioid epidemic.
Greg interviews Emelia Sherin, a sophomore public relations student at Kent State University. Emelia recently wrote a play covering the perspective and daily struggle of those suffering from substance abuse disorder.
Listen to the podcast to discover how Emelia turned these interviews into a live stage play and what she learned from her time speaking with those affected by the opioid epidemic.
Greg interviews Jay Edwards, the State Representative for Ohio House District 94. Representative Edwards recently introduced a bill, known as House Bill 167 or Daniel’s Law, that aims to cut back on the over prescribing of opioids by limiting the amount physicians can prescribe.
Listen to the podcast to discover how this bill is increasing opioid use education for health professionals and opening up online help services for those suffering from substance abuse disorders.
Greg interviews Dr. Martin Klapheke, the Assistant Dean of Medical Education and Professor of Psychiatry at The University of Central Florida. Dr. Klapheke and his team have developed a new opioid-related curriculum to help medical students fully understand how to safely treat substance abuse disorder and prevent the over-prescribing of opioids.
Listen to the podcast to discover how the curriculum created by Dr. Klapheke and his team aims to not only educate medical students in every specialty on how to deal with this epidemic, but graduates and practicing physicians alike.
Greg interviews Bill Ayars, the founder of The Emerald Jenny Foundation, a comprehensive database of recovery resources in Ohio. Created in memory of his daughter Jennifer Emerald Ayars, the foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping families find treatment for their loved ones.
Listen to the podcast to discover how The Emerald Jenny Foundation is continuing to work to make the road to recovery easier to travel.
Greg interviews Lisa Landau, the Bureau Chief of Health Care at the NYS Office of Attorney General Eric Schneiderman. Lisa and her team have been working since 2012 to remove health care coverage blocks for those seeking treatment for substance abuse disorder.
Listen to the podcast to discover how Lisa’s team is continuing to make healthcare providers aware of these issues and how states can address similar issues on their own.
Greg interviews Dr. Geoffrey Capraro, an assistant professor of Emergency Medicine at Brown University. Dr. Capraro has developed an emergency kit, called NaloxBox that makes Naloxone publicly available to bystander rescuers.
Listen to the podcast to discover how Dr. Capraro and his team are installing these NaloxBoxes in public areas and training people to administer the drug along with life-saving assistance.
Greg interviews Dr. Shawn Ryan, the President and CMO of the BrightView Treatment Center, as well as the President of the Ohio Society of Addiction Medicine. Dr. Ryan has spent the last six years working to combat the growing opioid epidemic both in his local community and throughout the rest of Ohio.
Listen to the podcast to discover how Ohio legislators are working to put laws in place to help limit supply and increase prevention, as well as how every community can be proactive in their fight against substance abuse disorder.
Greg interviews Dave Aronberg, the State Attorney of Palm Beach County, Florida. Mr. Aronberg established a Sober Homes Task Force to combat the numerous flop-houses and fake treatment centers that have popped up around Delray Beach.
Listen to the podcast to discover how these fake detox and treatment centers keep people in their systems and how State Attorney Aronberg and his team are fighting to break the cycle.
Greg interviews Rosalie Canfield, the Director of Operations for Hope Over Heroin. Hope Over Heroin is a collaborative, faith-based organization that aims to unite addiction and recovery resources in one location, so that those suffering from substance abuse disorders can find the help they need.
Greg interviews Capt. Houston Park, Dr. Belma Andric, and Dr. Mar Schlosser about their work on a new Subxone pilot program in Palm Beach, Florida. The program, modeled after a similar program at Yale-New Haven Hospital in Connecticut, involves a five step process to help those suffering from opioid use disorder get into treatment.
Listen to the podcast to discover how these Suboxone doses coupled with peer counseling is acting as an on ramp for treatment for those suffering from substance use disorder in Palm Beach County, Florida.
Greg interviews Officer Bud Lytle, a Public Information and Crime Prevention Officer for the Chillicothe Police Department. Bud and his department have shifted from traditional police tactics to approaches more in line with social work to help combat the growing opioid epidemic in their county.
Greg interviews Barbara Cimaglio, the Deputy Commissioner for the Vermont Department of Health. In 2012, Barbara and her department initiated the establishment of a “hub and spoke” model to address the growing opioid epidemic in their state. The model, referred to as the Care Alliance for Opioid Addiction, works to address the continuum of care for those suffering from substance abuse disorders.
Greg interviews LeeAnne Cornyn, the director of the Children’s Initiative at Attorney General Mike Dewine’s office. Leanne has been working on a new child protective services program called START – Sobriety Treatment and Reducing Trauma – which, aims to provide support for children and parents who have been affected by substance abuse.
Greg interviews Greg Vovos, a playwright and director who has worked in Cleveland theater since 1998. While Greg has written a myriad of plays, he’s also worked consistently for the Theatre of Healthy Living at Dobama Theatre; crafting plays for high schools, detention centers, and youth prisons about issues like racism, teen pregnancy, obesity, and drug and alcohol abuse. His most recent play, titled “How to Be a Respectable Junkie,” tells the story of Brian, a heroin addict set on taking his own life to spare everyone around him from his problems.
Greg interviews Iqbal Sunderani, the CEO and Founder of BTNX, Inc, a biotechnology company that has developed a Rapid ResponseTM Drug Test Strip that can be used to test for fentanyl in drugs like heroin. Greg also speaks with Van Asher, who is the syringe access program manager at St. Ann’s Corner of Harm Reduction in Bronx, NY.
Greg interviews Tim Elliot, the Executive Director of Re-Entry & Addiction Recovery at The Dalton Foundation, which has worked to provide assistance to organizations meeting the medical needs of the less fortunate since 2001. Though he first began his career in cars, Tim has spent the past thirty years as an advocate and change coach, as well as a facilitator for faith-based recovery in Akron.
Greg interviews Pastor Greg Delaney, the faith collaborator for Attorney General Mike DeWine’s Heroin/Outreach Unit. As the faith collaborator, Pastor Delaney travels with Attorney General DeWine and speaks to church communities and other faith leaders on how they can better address the heroin epidemic.
Greg interviews Wendy Komac, the CEO and Founding Partner of Luna Living, and Justin, who is currently a patient in recovery. Luna Living is an accredited partial hospitalization and outpatient facility for substance abuse disorders and outpatient mental health care. They aim to treat substance abuse disorders by addressing chronic brain diseases in an organic and compassionate atmosphere.
Greg interviews Brian Bailys, the founder of Ascent, which specializes in connecting peer recovery coaches with those in recovery through a smart phone app. Together they speak with David, one of Brian’s client’s that’s currently in recovery and using the Ascent mobile app.
Greg interviews Jac A. Charlier, the National Director for Justice Initiatives at TASC (Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities) in Chicago, Illinois. Jac was instrumental in the creation of STEER (Stop, Triage, Engage, Educate and Rehabilitate) a pre-booking law enforcement and drug treatment linkage program operating in Montgomery County, Maryland.
Greg interviews Chris Wilkins, the CEO of CHESS Mobile Health. CHESS aims to propagate mobile health resources that increase health service delivery system efficiency, provide users with a sense of control, and inspire others to inform and evolve new health tools. One such tool is CHESS’ recovery app, ACHESS, which provides ongoing support and relapse prevention to people recovering from substance abuse.
Greg interviews Andrew Joseph, a journalist at The Boston Globe affiliated STAT. STAT focuses on finding and telling compelling stories about health, medicine, and scientific discovery. As a general assignment reporter, Andrew has covered a multitude of topics ranging from crime to health policy – including the recent repeal of the ACA and its impact on the opioid epidemic.
Greg interviews John Tharp, a sheriff in Lucas County, Ohio, responsible for launching the Drug Abuse Response Team (D.A.R.T.). Founded in 2014, the D.A.R.T. program aims to make a difference in the opioid epidemic in Western Ohio by aiding in the treatment, education, and support of those suffering from substance abuse, as well as their family and friends.
Greg is joined again by Jessica Nickel, the CEO and founder of the Addiction Policy Forum. Together, they interview John Wetzel, Secretary of Corrections at the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections. Secretary Wetzel helped found a pilot program that combats substance abuse among inmates through the administration of Vivitrol – a medication that reduces drug cravings and blocks the “high” many users feel while under the influence. Initially implemented at SCI Muncy, a women’s prison, the program has now expanded to 11 other prisons in Pennsylvania.
Greg interviews Megan Peterson, the Executive Director of 2nd Chance Counseling Service. With over 15 years of counseling experience, Megan overseas telemedicine treatment for those suffering with substance abuse at 2nd Chance. In the podcast, Megan and Greg discuss telemedicine and how it could solve the overwhelming demand for treatment within the opioid epidemic.
Greg is joined by Jessica Nickel, the CEO and founder of the Addiction Policy Forum. Together, they interview Scott Strode, the CEO and founder of Phoenix Multisport—a unique recovery community teaching those struggling with substance abuse the skills and disciplines to stay sober via athletic training.
Listen to the podcast to discover the challenges that Phoenix Multisport faces by desiring to lower the barriers to entry.
Greg interviews Dr. George Elder, the Vice President of Schools and Colleges for Psychemedics Corporation--the world leader in drug testing using hair follicles. After utilizing Psychemedics’ drug testing services as a school Headmaster back in 2005, Dr. Elder became a leader in the advocacy of school drug testing.
Greg interviews Michelle Harter, the Associate Director of Anchor Recovery Community Centers—a recovery support group, engaged in the building and development of recovery culture in Rhode Island. Michelle was also the primary architect of AnchorED, a special program connecting people admitted to emergency rooms, for opioid related reasons, with trained recovery coaches. Michelle sheds light on how these recovery coaches play an important role in helping people avoid another overdose.
Greg interviews Rick Maese, a sports features writer for The Washington Post. The Washington Post has had an interest in football and the health and safety issues within the sport for many years. In a recent article about the National Football League’s (NFL) abuse of painkillers, Rick did extensive reporting and research on NFL team doctors. In the article, published on March 9, 2017, he discusses what he found about the prescription of opioids to keep players on the field.
Greg is joined by Jessica Nickel, the CEO and founder of the Addiction Policy Forum. Listen to Jennifer’s podcast interviews with Greg here and here. Together, they interview Chris Hickey, an EMS Officer from the Manchester Fire Department in New Hampshire. Chris is the creator of the Safe Stations program, a service that’s transforming New Hampshire fire stations into non-judgmental locations where people struggling with substance abuse can get connected to help.
Greg interviews Senator Sherrod Brown, the senior United States Senator for Ohio. Prior to his election to office in 2007, Senator Brown served as a United States Representative for Ohio’s 13th Congressional District. He also has prior experience as the Ohio Secretary of State, teaching in Ohio’s public schools and working on his family’s farm in Mansfield, Ohio. Greg and Senator Brown discuss America’s opioid epidemic and the work that’s being put forth to prevent future overdoses.
Greg interviews Joel Mowrey, the Executive Director of The Mental Health and Recovery Board of Portage County. Kelly Heart, a recovering addict, also joins the duo. Located in Portage County, Ohio, The Mental Health and Recovery Board is primarily a funding, monitoring and planning agency. By contracting with outside agencies, the board provides a wide array of services that deal with mental health and substance abuse issues.
Greg interviews Nick Bianco, the champion of Wadsworth Recovery Connection (WRC) in Summit County, Ohio. As a recovering addict, Nick is deeply committed to helping others suffering from substance abuse regain their lives. He is responsible for bringing WRC to Summit County. WRC is a phone-based service within the Wadsworth, Ohio area, connecting those that need help with the appropriate resources and support they need. Nick shares the story of his past struggles with substance use disorder and his passion for helping others.
Greg interviews Ken Hawkins, the Founder of Really Recovered and a recovering alcoholic and addict. Really Recovered is a recovery church rooted in Christian faith and the firm belief that total transformation is gained through a relationship with Christ. Ken himself has struggled with substance abuse since the age of 11. He shares how he miraculously turned his life around through his spiritual journey with Christ.
Greg interviews Rob Brandt, the Founder of Robby’s Voice. Rob lost his son Robby to opioids in 2011. In the wake of Robby’s death, a notebook of his was found containing plans to help those suffering from substance abuse. Robby’s Voice was created to bring life to that vision. Rob discusses his son’s unbridled passion for life and how he and his wife handled their son’s unexpected passing.
Greg interviews Jessica Nickel, the Executive Director of the Addiction Policy Forum. The mission of the Addiction Policy Forum is to ensure that addiction is treated as a disease, elevate addiction awareness and improve national policy through a comprehensive response. Jessica herself comes from a background of substance abuse, with many family members growing up struggled with the disease. Listen to her previous podcast interview with Greg here.
Greg interviews Jessica Nickel, the Executive Director of the Addiction Policy Forum. The mission of the forum is to ensure that addiction is treated as a disease, elevate addiction awareness and improve national policy through a comprehensive response. Jessica has been an advocate for those suffering from substance abuse for 26 years.
Greg interviews Pastor Jerry O’Brien, the Senior Pastor of Faith Harvest Fellowship of Wooster, Ohio and a Founder of the Hebron Recovery Group (HRG), a faith-based living facility of Millersburg, Ohio. Pastor O’Brien has ministered on Christian broadcast programs like the 700 Club, Tri-State Christian Television (TCT) and Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) alongside the likes of Rod Parsley, Richard Roberts, Benny Hinn, Steve Munsey and James Payne. He’s also the former host of a radio show in Canton, Ohio and a frequent guest on Ask the Pastor.
Greg interviews Mike McRill, a Community Resource Officer from the Sidney Police Department located in Sidney, Ohio and a former middle school teacher. Desiring to do more for his community and live his passion for law enforcement, he joined the Sidney Police Department in 2000. After becoming the Community Resource Officer in 2014, Officer McRill revived the program by reaching out to citizens and businesses to gauge what was needed within the Sidney community.
Greg interviews Rob Portman, a United States Senator from Cincinnati, Ohio. In September 1996, Senator Portman founded the Coalition for a Drug-Free Greater Cincinnati—now known as PreventionFIRST! The coalition’s purpose is to keep young people free of substance abuse. He was first elected to Senate in 2010, after winning 82 of Ohio’s 88 counties. More than 20 years later, Senator Portman’s fight against substance abuse continues to gain momentum today.
Greg interviews Andy Duran, the Executive Director of LEAD (Linking Efforts Against Drugs). Founded in May 2012, LEAD is a drug prevention coalition based in Lake Forest/Lake Bluff, Illinois. Equipped with years of experience working with youth, Andy has created a new approach to drug prevention with LEAD. The nationally recognized organization offers training, workshops and technical assistance for organizations all over the country.
Greg interviews Kevin Lorson, the Professor and Program Director of the Health and Physical Education Program at Wright State University. He’s also the President of OAHPERD (The Ohio Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance), which consists of over 3,000 Ohio education professionals. With Kevin’s guidance, OAHPERD is presently working on a substance abuse prevention program for kindergarten to 12th grade students.
Greg interviews two experts on Supervised Injection Facilities (SIF). SIFs are controlled healthcare settings, where people can safely inject drugs under clinical supervision. Currently, there are 98 SIF operations in 10 countries around the world. The two experts are: Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal and Addiction Medicine Specialist Dr. Aaron Fox. Both discuss the dire need for more SIFs across the nation, specifically in New York City.
Ep. 74 – After Dreamland Pt. 4: Recognizing an Unmet Need and Stepping Up, JoAnna Krohn by Cover 2 Resources
Greg interviews Jeanne Whalen, the Deputy Bureau Chief of Health & Sciences at The Wall Street Journal. As a Deputy Bureau Chief of Health & Sciences, Jeanne writes stories that cover the health, science and pharmaceutical industries. She has written numerous articles on the opioid epidemic, including stories that cover topics like: the fight of schools against the epidemic, the surge of children effected by opioids, the opioid-related problems of rural America, the possible reduction of insurance coverage via healthcare reform and the Chinese connection to America’s growing epidemic.
Greg interviews Todd Popovich, a resident of Rutland, Vermont with first-hand experience of the opioid epidemic sweeping the area. Todd, now in recovery, has struggled with substance abuse disorder in the past. He plans to graduate from his recovery program in two weeks, on February 23. He shares more about his past struggle and the current tragic epidemic in Rutland.
Greg interviews Jason Merrick, the Director of Addiction Services at Kenton County Detention Center in Covington, Kentucky. He also worked with Sam Quinones on his highly-acclaimed book Dreamland. This episode is Part Two in a series of podcasts that will explore life after Dreamland for those who helped Sam with his book.
Greg interviews Dr. Joe Gay, a Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Chemical Dependency Professional and the Executive Director of Health Recovery Services in Athens, Ohio. He also worked with Sam Quinones on his highly-acclaimed book Dreamland. This episode is Part Two in a series of podcasts that will explore life after Dreamland for those who helped Sam with his book.
Greg interviews Lisa Roberts, a Health Department Nurse for the city of Portsmouth, Ohio. She’s been working as a Portsmouth nurse for the past 29 years. She also worked with Sam Quinones on his highly-acclaimed book Dreamland. This episode is Part Three in a series of podcasts that will explore life after Dreamland for those who helped Sam with his book.
Greg interviews Paul Web and Marcie Mason about Hidden In Plain Sight. Paul is a Copley Police Department Detective, while Marcie is a Youth Services Worker for both the Copley and Bath Police Departments. Hidden In Plain Sight is an awareness program geared towards parents and other concerned adults. The program strengthens recognition skills by displaying items in a typical teen room that are indicators of drug or alcohol use.
Listen to the podcast to discover the components of Hidden In Plain Sight. Find out where you can see an upcoming presentation here.
Greg interviews Jennifer Levitz, reporter with the Wall Street Journal, to discuss what she has learned investigating the opioid epidemic. Jennifer’s recent article, Vermont’s Radical Experiment to Break the Addiction Cycle, tells the story of Todd Popovitch, a former drug user who has been given a second chance under Vermont’s revolutionary new policies regarding drug possession.
Jennifer discusses the research which she undertook to write the article. Vermont has been hit hard by the opioid epidemic. “Vermont is situated in a pipeline for drugs between New York City and Connecticut,” she says. “They were going right up from New York to Rutland, Vermont. That became known as the heart of it… in a lot of places, first, it was the opioid pills. Then there were crackdowns on getting those pills. Then the heroine started to flood in from the big cities. People could make a profit on it in Vermont. It was simple economics.”
In this episode of the Cover2 Resources podcast, Greg interviews Harriet Ryan, an investigative reporter at the Los Angeles Times who frequently writes about the opioid epidemic. On January 19, 2017, Harriet wrote an article about a recent lawsuit in the city of Everett—located just north of Seattle, Washington. The city was prompted to sue the drug producer Purdue Pharma after reviewing another article published by Ryan last year.
Harriet says that her investigation found the roots of the issue: dirty physicians and pharmacies. She goes on to say why Purdue Pharma waited to disclose findings of these dirty physicians and pharmacies, rather than reporting them immediately.
Listen to the podcast to hear how Everett plans to proceed with the case against this massive drug manufacturer.
In this episode of the Cover2 Resources podcast, Greg interviews Eric Eyre, a Journalist at Charleston Gazette-Mail. Eric reports on healthcare issues, including the current opioid epidemic sweeping across the nation and, more specifically, in West Virginia. Eric’s team analyzed opioid shipments in WV between 2007 and 2012. Through this deep research, they learned that wholesalers shipped enough opioids to supply every man, woman and child with 433 pills during that time period.
Eric’s team also found that a disproportionate number of pain pills went to the poorest and most rural counties in West Virginia. In the podcast, he shares why the number was so disproportionate compared to less rural counties.
Listen to the podcast for Eric’s highly-researched perspective on the opioid epidemic.
In this episode of the Cover2 Resources podcast, Greg interviews Lenny Bernstein, a journalist at The Washington Post. Recently, Lenny’s team spent a year investigating the rising death rate of rural white Americans. They found some startling evidence for why many rural Americans were falling victim to diseases of despair—alcoholism, suicide, and drug overdose. His team discovered that some distribution companies were giving rural pharmacies much more pills than they could possibly sell or store.
Listen to the podcast to hear Lenny explain what the DEA did about the distribution companies and why the epidemic continues today.
Greg makes a return visit to the Cuyahoga County Needle Exchange truck to interview clients. You can listen to his other Cuyahoga County Needle Exchange podcasts here. Greg interviews three clients: Rick, Ray, and Danny. Each has a unique story of the increasingly isolated worlds of substance abuse in which they live.
Listen to the podcast to hear Danny’s story and more about the lives of these three gentlemen.
In this episode of the Cover2 Resources PPT Podcast, Greg interviews Janis Beckett, the Director of Chemical Dependency Services at the Cleveland Clinic, Akron General Hospital and Edwin Shaw Rehabilitation Hospital. Janis decided to enter the field of Chemical Dependency after struggling with substance use disorder herself.
Janis dispels some misconceptions about the early stages of treatment. “People in early recovery need to be around other healthy people in early recovery,” she says.
Listen to the podcast to learn how you can help support a loved one who has entered early recovery.
In this episode of the Cover2 Resources PPT Podcast, Greg interviews Sarah Nerad. She is the Program Manager for the Ohio State University Collegiate Recovery Community in Columbus, Ohio, and the Director of Recovery for the Higher Education Center for Alcohol and Drug Misuse Prevention in Recovery. Sarah struggled with addiction herself at age 15, and she describes herself as in recovery. She credits her high school community in Houston, TX, for helping her enter recovery. “I never stopped receiving services, and that’s what made it so successful for me,” she says.
Now Sarah is giving back. She has built an incredible recovery community at OSU for students struggling with substance abuse disorder.
To hear how Sarah is fighting the opioid epidemic one life at a time, check out the episode here.
In this episode of the Cover2 Resources PPT Podcast, Greg interviews Jennifer Biddinger, the Director of Drug Abuse Outreach Initiatives for Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine. In her role, Jennifer helps Ohioans fight drugs in their communities. As a part of the heroin outreach program, her team goes into specific communities to create initiatives.
Jennifer discusses how the team allocates resources in the face of the overwhelming epidemic. “We generally look for people who are in the worst shape,” she says. “Where is our time best utilized to save lives?”
Listen to the episode to hear the incredible success stories of these grassroots initiatives.
In this episode of the Cover2 Resources PPT Podcast, Greg interviews community leaders, administrators and students at a recent rally for Drug Free Clubs of America (DFCA). Drug Free Clubs are high school and middle school clubs in which students agree to remain drug free and submit to random drug screenings throughout the year. In return, they receive perks like prizes and discount cards.
Greg starts by interviewing Wayne Campbell, Founder of Tyler’s Light. Wayne has helped start 18 drug free clubs. He explains what happens to students’ work ethic as a result of their DFCA membership. “These students have pledged to be drug free and want to prove it,” he says. “Their attendance, grades, and test scores get better, while necessary disciplinary action declines.”
In this episode of the Cover2 Resources PPT Podcast, Greg talks to Angie Ferguson, Executive Director of Drug Free Clubs of America (DFCA).
Angie discusses the origin of Drug Free Clubs of America. The idea started in 2005 when Angie’s father and his colleague told Angie that they had an idea for combatting drug abuse. As firefighters, they had witnessed a lack of heartfelt preventative efforts by others. What if a club existed that offered high school students incentives for passing drug tests? Angie says, “Instantly, I thought of my high school friends who struggled with substance use disorder…Something like [DFCA] could have worked for them.”
In this episode of the Cover2 Resources PPT Podcast, Greg interviews Sam Quinones, author of the best-selling book Dreamland. Sam found the title for his award-winning book when he investigated the origins of the opioid epidemic in Portsmouth, OH. The town used to have a gigantic swimming pool called Dreamland, where the whole community would come together to watch each other’s kids and socialize. The pool was eventually dug up, and a strip mall took its place. “[The pool] was almost a stand-in for the communities we’ve destroyed in so many parts of the country,” Sam says.
Sam traces the causes of America’s opioid epidemic. He discusses the role that prescription oxycodone played, as well as the cheap heroin from Mexico that people could get on the street once their prescriptions ran out.
Sam is a true expert on the opioid epidemic. Listen to his analysis here, and check out Sam’s book for more information.
Greg interviews Jeff Mozingo and Joe Richardson, founders of Awaken Project. Awaken Project is an in-school presentation reinforcing a strong drug use prevention message with a live multimedia music event. Jeff and Joe met at a golf tournament. At the tournament, Jeff was asked to pray for Joe and his son—who sadly passed away from a heroin overdose. Jeff describes the Awaken Project as, “God bringing us together for a positive message.”
In this episode of the Cover2 Resources PPT Podcast, Greg interviews Dr. Mark Rosenberg, the Chairman of Emergency Medicine and the Medical Director for Population Health at St. Joseph’s Healthcare System in Patterson, New Jersey. Alternatives to Opioids Program (ALTO) was born in the emergency wing of St. Joseph’s Healthcare System. The program uses music and other alternative therapies instead of opioids to relieve pain.
The ALTO program is truly making a difference. “The numbers are just staggering,” says Dr. Rosenberg.
Listen to the episode here to learn more about the impact ALTO has had on the community in Patterson, NJ.
In this episode of the Cover2 Resources PPT Podcast, Greg interviews Craig Wigley, Dr. Vanessa Clark, and William Zylinski, administrators from the Lacey Township School District in Lanoka Harbor, NJ. The panel talks about drug testing in schools, which was recently implemented in the Lacey Township School District. The panel discusses the importance of hearing student voices on the matter, as well as the lengthy process of policy development.
Greg interviews Dr. Brian Welsh, the Chief Medical Officer at Coleman Professional Services in Kent, Ohio. Coleman is a nonprofit medical organization committed to fostering recovering, building independence and changing the destinies of individuals in the Kent community. Dr. Welsh describes his position as overseeing clinical protocols and procedures, as well as supervision of psychiatry procedures for all the Coleman locations.
Ricardo Tull, who works for Philadelphia’s Department of Behavioral Health and leads the CRAFT (Coordinated Response to Addiction Facilitating Treatment) Program. He explains CRAFT as an extension to the long Prevention Point program with four basic elements: assertive outreach and engagement, affectively screen and assess addicts, unconditional support, harm reduction and treatment encouragement. He says that the program has been in effect since 2006 and a positive impact on the community.
Greg interviews Sergeant Pat Greenhill, the Sergeant of the Berea Police Department and PAARI (The Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Initiative) Program Coordinator for Community Engagement. They are joined by PAARI State Representative Nicole Walmsley. You can listen to her first podcast episode here. As Sergeant Greenhill explains, PAARI is a national organization started in Gloucester, Massachusetts by the Gloucester Police Department. Its mission is to help opioid addicts find proper addiction treatment. “We don’t turn anyone away, we will provide them with access to resources,” says Sergeant Greenhill.
Greg interviews Orlando Howard, the Manager of Outpatient Services at Rosary Hall of St. Vincent Charity Medical Center in Cleveland. Started in 1865, the medical center has provided healing services to the Cleveland community for over 150 years! Dedicated to the healing ministry of Jesus, the center has been quite involved in the Northeast Ohio opioid epidemic. Orlando shares how St. Vincent is reaching out into the opioid addict community by actively responding to the changing face of addiction.
Greg interviews Garrett Hart, the Creative Content Director for Summit Radio Station and the Host of Rock and Recovery. Behind the music, Rock and Recovery enables the community to heal together through the therapeutic power of music. With messages of hope and inspiration, the specially chosen music provide encouragement for each individual journey. Garrett describes it as, “A mix of positive upbeat songs along with short messages meant to inspire people who are in a recovery program or dealing with any trauma in their lives...to hit that restart button in the brain, to think more positively, to think what in your life is of value and what you enjoy.”
Greg interviews Michael, a Summit County Narcotics-Anonymous Member. Nar-Anon provides a community for those who have felt the agony of seeing a friend or family member struggle with drug addiction. The Nar-Anon program itself consists of twelve steps, centered around grace, wisdom and love.
Greg interviews Mark O’Brien, the Director of Opioid Overdose Prevention and Treatment for the city of Baltimore. Many U.S. cities have first responders carrying the heroin-antidote naloxone, but in Baltimore they have a loftier goal of getting the lifesaving drug into the medicine cabinet of every resident. Mark discusses this innovative addition to the Staying Alive program and how it works.
Dr. Nicole Labor, Addiction Medicine Specialist at Summa Healthcare in Akron, Ohio, once struggled with a heroin addiction that pushed her to pursue a career in addiction treatment. “At the end of school you choose the field you hate the least… [Addiction Medicine] is a field that requires you to be honest and set boundaries. Since those were things I was working on in my own recovery, I thought it would be good for me,” says Dr. Labor.
Tracy Plouck is the director of the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction (MHAS) Services and has been a member of Governor John Kasich’s Cabinet since January 2011. As director of MHAS, Tracy has been witness to the effects of the opioid epidemic statewide. She explains what she has seen as director. “Since addiction has been affecting so many families, there has been a reduction in stigma. People are now aware that [addiction] transcends all walks of life,” says Tracy.
Since 2015, Jennifer Mason and her staff have been working to respond to the opioid epidemic in Butler County with an opiate task force. Jennifer is the Fort Hamilton Hospital EMS Coordinator and the Founder of Fort’s Opiate Recovery Task Force (FORT) and its Golden Ticket Program, a program for addicts who come into the hospital’s ER for overdose treatment.
The suboxone program of First Choice Community Healthcare (FCCH) of Albuquerque, New Mexico, has seen great success over the past few years. Minda Jaramillo, Director of Behavioral Health at FCCH, discusses the program and how it uniquely treats opioid addicts.
Dr. Jeanette Moleski has 26 years of experience as a DO running a family practice in Hudson, Ohio. Over the last 10 years, Dr. Moleski has specialized in the field addiction recovery. She was a round table participant in the Facing Addiction Caucus at this year’s Republican National Convention in Cleveland.
In response to opioid overdoses in Boston, Dr. Jessie Gaeta devised a safe space for rehabilitation called SPOT. She is the Chief Medical Officer of the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program or BHCHP. SPOT (Supportive Place for Observation and Treatment) was made with the goal of preventing fatal overdoses in mind.
Dr. Gaeta talks about how a safe place was missing from BHCHP facilities. She explains how SPOT provides a haven for over-sedated individuals to recuperate, who are mainly poor or homeless. Once they join the program, “they aren’t alone, they aren’t in public, and they aren’t on a street corner with no medical response nearby,” says Dr. Gaeta.
Greg interviews Troy Gahm, the Owner and Operator of Gahm’s Pharmacy in Lucasville Ohio. As a licensed pharmacist, Troy was quoted in Dreamland, a novel about the opioid epidemic in America. After founding the pharmacy in 1996, Troy has encountered problems with the opioid epidemic. He talks about what he has witnessed in his community and overprescribing.
Judge Thomas Teodosio runs a compassionate drug court in the Summit County Court of Common Pleas called The Turning Point.
Upon entering The Turning Point Program, Judge Teodosio's drug court, offenders are assessed for mental health issues and substance abuse issues. Individuals are assessed by community specialists like Summit Psychology Associates and Portage Path Behavioral Health. Judge Teodosio explains the importance of the assessment. “They may have a traumatic event in their past they’ve suppressed or they may have some other mental health issue. Studies show that if you don’t address the mental health issues and the substance abuse issues of a patient, you won’t succeed,” says Judge Teodosio.
Jerry discusses where Dawn education can be found in Summit County. He notes two DAWN clinics established for Narcan education, Summit County Public Health and Edwin Shaw Rehabilitation Hospital. Summit County also hosts DAWN clinics at other locations. “Not only are Dawn clinics held in these settings, but we also have the capacity to do Dawn clinics out in the community.”
Greg interviews Allyse Adams, a Clinical Administrator and Certified Counselor at the Oriana House of Akron, Ohio.
Greg interviews Erin Helms, the Executive Director of the Woodrow Project located in Parma, Ohio. The mission of the Woodrow Project is to provide a safe, stable and supportive environment for women in recovery.
In this episode of the Cover2 Resources podcast, Greg interviews Mayor Dan Horrigan of Akron, Ohio. Greg explains Colerain’s revolutionary approach. Mayor Horrigan says, “I love the idea, the compassionate approach… I’ve talked to Donna Skoda and to our Chief of Public Safety. I’ve said, let’s try and put something like this together. If we have the social work experts, the available medical staff—even if we don’t, we have to do something. I’m looking for best practices. How do we implement it up here? It’s a well-worn path. If they’re doing something right, and it’s working, let’s not reinvent the wheel. Let’s try the same thing.”
Mayor Horrigan talks about how easy it is to mimic legislation from other cities. He discusses plans to put something together in this area. He also talks about the seismic shift in drug addiction treatment which is sweeping the nation. He advocates a compassionate approach. “We can’t arrest our way out of these problems,” he says.
Greg interviews Donna Skoda, the Public Health Commissioner of Summit County. Donna has been with the Department of Public Health since 2000. She has been working as the Public Health Commissioner of Summit County for a little over a year. The mission of Summit County Public Health is to protect and advance the health of the entire community through its policies, programs and activities that protect the safety, health and well-being of the people in Summit County.
Greg interviews Nicole Argenio, a former opioid addict. Nicole is an addiction recovery coach at the Oriana House in Akron, OH. The Oriana House is dedicated to assisting people in overcoming their substance dependencies and providing multi-step rehabilitation.
Greg interviews Captain Michael Shearer, Captain of the Akron Police Department Narcotics Division. Captain Shearer has spent 25 years on the police force, in various roles. He has been Captain of the Police Department since 2005. Akron has experienced a tragic spike in heroin overdoses this summer. In July, first responder calls went from 2 a day to 11 a day. Greg asks Captain Shearer how the department has dealt with this influx of overdoses and what the department is doing to make a difference.
Greg interviews Nicole Walmsley, State Representative of the Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Initiative. Through her efforts, the initiative is now active in the city of Lodi’s police department. The initiative works to support the Gloucester Police addiction initiative, to aid other police departments, and to foster a dialogue for police departments to take direct action against the disease of drug addiction in their communities.
Travis discusses the stigma of addiction and how we can break it through unity and love. He is the founder of Breaking Barriers – Hope is Alive, located in Uniontown, OH. Breaking Barriers – Hope is Alive is a resource for people and families who are struggling with the disease of addiction. Through training, education and bringing awareness both locally and nationally, Breaking Barriers – Hope is Alive helps addicts get the resources and support they deserve.
The Good Samaritan Law goes into effect on September 13, 2016. Greg asks Representative Sprague about the law and what exactly it entails. “The law is addressing the issue of addiction in the state of Ohio. 8 out of 10 people that use narcotics, prescription pain pills or heroin, use with somebody else. While 8 out of 10 people that overdose, die alone,” says Rep. Sprague. “Overdosing takes time. Whoever is there with that person when they are using, if they don’t call 911, they are running. They don’t want to get in trouble. The Good Samaritan Law provides safety for individuals, so they won’t be prosecuted for minor drug possession. So they can call 911 and save somebody else’s life.”
Dr. Christina Reyes discusses how she got into the field of psychiatry and addiction, as well as the severity of opioid addiction from a medical perspective. She is the Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Addiction at University Hospital’s Case Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio. As an academic medical center, the hospital is dedicated to educating and training physicians and conducting clinical research.
Greg talks with Ted St. John, the Director of Operations at First Step Recovery. First Step Recovery is substance addiction detox center located in Warren, Ohio. Ted himself is a recovering addict who has struggled with opioid and alcohol addiction.
A recent overdose crisis in Cincinnati, Ohio on August 27, 2016 made headlines after the city dealt with 78 overdoses over a span of 2 days. The USA Today article on the tragedy referenced the outstanding overdose statistics of Hamilton County, located just north of Cincinnati. The county reported having a 35% decrease in overdoses compared to just last year.
Greg interviews Wayne Campbell, the president of Tyler’s Light. Tyler’s Light is a resource for those in Pickerington and Fairfield County, Ohio focused on preventing drug addiction. The foundation sheds light on the severity of drug addiction via community engagement, awareness, education and support.
Dr. Gary Martin discusses the opioid epidemic in Boca Raton. He is a Former Detective for the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office in the Department of Violent Crimes. He is also the founder of NOPE Task Force, the Narcotics Overdose Prevention and Education, located in Boca Raton. Dr. Martin has over 28 years of experience investigating narcotics related cases.
Dr. Brown discusses the options of treatment for opioid addicts at Meridian HealthCare, located in Youngstown, Ohio. Dr. Brown is the Doctor of Osteopathic medicine and the Chief Medical Officer at Meridian HealthCare. The facility is a community based, integrated agency with a goal of serving individuals and families struggling with addiction.
Huntington, West Virginia made headlines this past Monday, August 15, 2016, after 26 people overdosed on heroin in the span of only 4 hours. Thankfully, there were no deaths and everyone who overdosed survived due to the quick response time of emergency services. Gordon Merry, EMS Director, acted quickly and diverted his resources in an effective manner. “Quite honestly, there should have been deaths in this,” Merry says, “Monday was one of the worst days we have had in dealing with a drug overdose incident.”
Detective Piatchek discusses how to detect the signs of opioid addiction in a family member and how to potentially prevent an overdose. Detective Piatchek works in the Palm Beach County Sheriff Office in the Violent Crimes and Homicide Division.
George Loucas discusses the increase of the opioid epidemic over the last 10 years. Mr. Loucas is the founder of Loucas Law, a medical malpractice firm that specializes in wrongful death cases involving prescription opiates.
Denny founded F I Community Housing in 1995. Today, it’s Ohio’s largest peer-operated recovery community. Denny’s past informs his present mission in fighting the opioid epidemic: by the age of 25, he was addicted to several drugs, including heroin, crack cocaine, and alcohol. After he went through a 21-day recovery program, Denny was awarded a 14-day stay in a sober house. He came under the wing of a mentor who created a safe space and gave him hope. “He was the world’s first recovery coach, to me,” Denny says. “He asked me one key question. What is it that you want?”
In Episode 16 of the Cover2 Resources Podcast, Greg recaps everything we covered in Season 2. He also preps us for Season 3 of the Cover2 Resources Podcast, which launches August 2016.
Greg interviews Ohio State Representative Robert Sprague, 83rd House District. As chairman of the Finance Subcommittee on Health and Human Services, Representative Sprague brings an important perspective to the fight against the opioid epidemic: since taking office, he has sponsored or endorsed 14 pieces of opioid-related legislation.
Greg interviews Bill Denihan, CEO of ADAMHS, Cuyahoga County. The Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health Services Board of Cuyahoga County serves residents who need help in these areas. Bill talks to Greg about the process of detox and what must happen afterward to ensure a successful recovery.
Greg interviews Lori Criss, Associate Director of the Ohio Council of Behavioral, Health, and Family Service Providers. Lori discusses the path which families should take in helping an addicted loved one who is ready to get treatment.
Greg interviews Tom Stuber, president and CEO of LCADA Way Wellness and Recovery. Tom reviews the treatment records of Greg’s son Sam and talks about the process of relapse. Greg clarifies that this review is not for the purpose of blaming anyone, but rather to uncover any information that may help other families with a loved one who is addicted.
Greg interviews Ed Hughes, CEO of The Counseling Center, Portsmouth, OH. Ed talks about the lessons which families can learn from the national opiate epidemic that started in Portsmouth. Ed traces a short history of the Portsmouth epidemic—how storefront pain clinics legally prescribed opiates and eventually drew out-of-state customers. Then he discusses what families of addicts can do to help their loved one.
Greg interviews Emily Metz, program coordinator at Project DAWN, an opioid overdose education and naloxone distribution (OEND) program. The acronym DAWN stands for “deaths avoided with naloxone,” and that’s exactly what the program accomplishes. Naloxone, also known as narcan, is the antidote to any type of opiate overdose. The program distributes naloxone kits for free to those who need them, and it also educates community members on how to recognize and respond to an overdose.
In Episode 8 of the Cover2 Resources Podcast, Greg recaps everything we covered in Season 1. He also preps us for Season 2 of the Cover2 Resources Podcast, which launches July 28, 2016.
In this episode of the Cover2 Resources Podcast, Greg McNeil, Founder and President, interviews Bill Gilliland, the Chief Operating Officer of Treatment Alternatives in Boca Raton, Florida. Treatment Alternatives, also known as the “Boca House,” is the last place where Greg’s son Sam underwent rehab.
In this episode of the Cover2 Podcast, Greg interviews Chico Lewis and Roger Lowe on-site at the Free Clinic Needle Exchange in Cleveland. They discuss the program, which allows drug users to trade their needles for clean ones. This helps prevent the spread of HIV and hepatitis C.
In this episode of the Cover2 Podcast, Greg interviews Dr. Tom Gilson, Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner. Dr. Gilson has worked as a medical examiner for 22 years, the last 5 in Cuyahoga County. In that short span of time, he has seen an opioid epidemic emerge in Northeast Ohio.
In this episode of the Cover2 Resources Podcast, Greg McNeil, Founder and President, interviews Judge David T. Matia. Judge Matia presides over the Cuyahoga County Drug Court, the first of its kind in Cleveland. He has had a powerful role brokering justice and compassion in the lives of Cleveland’s drug addicts.
In this episode of the Cover2 Podcast, Greg continues his interview with Chico Lewis and Roger Lowe on-site at the Free Clinic Needle Exchange in Cleveland. They discuss the alarming growth of the opioid epidemic, particularly the effect which Chico has seen from the increasing use of fentanyl.
In this episode of the Cover2 Podcast, Greg interviews Robin Star, a certified coach who helps families of opiate addicts. Robin uses a science-based program that’s backed by 40 years of clinical research. Robin discovered the tragedy of addiction in her own life when a family member went into this crisis. Robin didn’t know how to help, though she wanted desperately to do so. She learned a lot in this heartbreaking time.
In the inaugural podcast, Cover2 Resources Founder and President Greg McNeil introduces his son Sam. Sam was a gifted athlete and a deeply caring person. Sam was exposed to opiates through a prescription for an athletic injury. In a story that is becoming all too familiar, Sam’s use of opiates extended beyond the duration of his prescription. Ultimately, it took his life.
In this episode, Greg shares the unthinkable pain that ensues when a parent loses a child to opiate addiction. He talks about the vision for Cover2 Resources—to empower parents to help their loved ones before it’s too late. The first episode of the Cover2 Podcast is a wakeup call to parents who may think they have it all covered.