Épisodes

  • S2E9 Finding Recovery In Jail
    Jun 1 2025
    In this episode of Beyond Substance, hosts Dean Babcock and Jodi Miller explore how the criminal justice system—particularly county jails—can be a surprising gateway to recovery. Through conversations with Kelly Gunn, Director of Jail Programs in Hamilton County, and Jennifer Bella, a peer recovery coach who found hope behind bars, this episode examines the transformation possible when dignity, support, and structured programs are prioritized. Together, their stories highlight the intersection of incarceration, trauma, and recovery—and the systems working to bridge the gap between punishment and healing.

    Segment 1
    Kelly Gunn, Director of Jail Programs in Hamilton County, shares her experience running recovery-oriented reentry services inside the jail. She outlines the shift in local policy that now keeps many level-six felony offenders in county jails, creating a need for more structured, rehabilitative programming. Gunn highlights Hamilton County's TOWER program and the women’s Launch Hope initiative, which provide therapy, life skills, employment support, and community-based reentry services. She emphasizes the importance of voluntary engagement and ongoing support beyond incarceration, and how partnerships with nonprofits, employers, and treatment providers help build a system of hope.

    Segment 2
    Jennifer Bella’s powerful personal story reveals a recovery journey that began during her 16-month incarceration. After years of abuse, addiction, and multiple felonies, she was introduced to Launch Hope in the Hamilton County Jail. With the support of peer mentors and Jodi’s Refuel Wellness program, Jennifer has found her purpose. Today, she is a peer recovery coach, helping others through the same system that once held her. Her story is a testimony to what happens when people are met with trust, tools, and belief in their worth. Takeaways
    • Jails can become a starting point for recovery with the right programming and support.
    • Hamilton County’s TOWER and Launch Hope programs provide holistic, trauma-informed care inside jail walls.
    • Jennifer Bella’s story shows that recovery can begin in jail—with the right support system and structure.
    • Programs like Suboxone and Vivitrol are essential tools for safe transition out of incarceration.
    • Peer mentors and post-release support are key to reducing recidivism and sustaining recovery.
    Chapters
    00:00 Opening Reflections and Data Overview
    03:43 Introducing Kelly Gunn and Hamilton County Programs
    06:42 The Need for Structured Reentry Support
    09:32 Partnering with Other Jails and Expanding Services
    12:57 Launch Hope and Refuel Wellness
    18:23 Medication-Assisted Treatment and Harm Reduction
    21:26 Measuring Success Beyond Recidivism
    24:44 Jennifer Bella's Story: Loss, Addiction, and Incarceration
    30:28 Transformation Through Launch Hope
    34:14 Reentry, Peer Coaching, and Continued Barriers
    41:08 Stigma, Determination, and a Message of Hope
    46:51 Looking Ahead

    Podcast Information
    Hosted by Dean Babcock and Jodi Miller
    Interview Segment Producer: Angela Shamblin
    Personal Story Producer: Shawn P Neal
    Executive Producer: Shawn P Neal
    Mixed at AvoCast Studio236

    Episode Hashtags
    #BeyondSubstance #RecoveryBehindBars #LaunchHope #PeerSupport #SubstanceUseRecovery #HarmReduction #ReentryPrograms #TOWERProgram #AddictionRecoveryStories #CriminalJusticeReform #PublicHealthInJails #IndianaRecovery #NaloxoneSavesLives #MATPrograms #StigmaFreeRecovery #RefuelWellness #JenniferBella #ShawnPNeal #AdvoCast #CommunityHealing
    Voir plus Voir moins
    48 min
  • Knowledge is Power
    May 1 2025
    In this episode of Beyond Substance, hosts Dean Babcock and Jodi Miller explore the critical intersection of research, personal experience, and community support in addressing substance use and recovery. They engage with experts Dr. Brad Ray and Dr. Katrina "Kat" Thomas, who share insights on drug trends, the impact of overdose data, and the importance of empathy and education in combating stigma. The conversation emphasizes the need for harm reduction strategies, the role of naloxone, and the power of personal stories in fostering hope and resilience within communities.

    Segment 1
    Dr. Brad Ray is a Senior Researcher at RTI International with a PhD in Sociology and Anthropology who conducts research at the intersection of public health and public safety that is aimed at overdose prevention. His training includes multiple quantitative and qualitative methodologies, and he has been the principal investigator on grants from the National Institutes on Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Science Foundation, and the National Institute of Justice. He has conducted numerous randomized trials, integrated large statewide datasets to identify overdose touchpoints, and studied the implementation of multiple harm reduction strategies. Dr. Ray also oversees technical assistance to state governments to implement programming at the intersection of public health and public safety systems.

    Segment 2
    In this conversation, Dr. Katrina "Kat" Thomas shares her personal journey through substance use and recovery, highlighting the impact of trauma and the importance of seeking help. She discusses her transition from personal struggles to a professional career in counseling and advocacy, emphasizing the evolving landscape of substance use and the need for community support. Dr. Kat addresses the stigma surrounding addiction and the misconceptions that persist, ultimately encouraging listeners to seek reliable resources and never give up hope.

    Takeaways
    • Fentanyl has taken over the illegal opioid market.
    • The transition from heroin to fentanyl has changed drug use dynamics.
    • Drug seizures can lead to increased overdose risks.
    • Naloxone distribution is crucial for overdose prevention.
    • Listening to people with lived experience is vital for effective interventions.
    • Stigma surrounding substance use continues to be a major barrier.
    • Radical empathy is essential in service work.

    Chapters
    00:00 Opening
    01:55 Understanding Drug Trends and Overdose Data
    04:58 The Role of Research in Public Health
    10:03 The Impact of Drug Seizures on Overdoses
    14:51 Innovative Approaches to Harm Reduction
    19:55 Dispelling Myths About Substance Use
    25:06 The Journey of Recovery and Resilience
    30:07 Advocacy and the Power of Personal Experience
    35:13 The Importance of Community Support
    40:01 Looking Ahead: Future Conversations on Recovery

    Hosted by Dean Babcock and Jodi Miller
    Interview Segment Producer: Angela Shamblin
    Personal Story Producer: Shawn P Neal
    Executive Producer: Shawn P Neal
    Mixed at AvoCast Studio236

    #BeyondSubstance #SubstanceUseRecovery #HarmReduction #OpioidCrisis #NaloxoneSavesLives #FentanylAwareness #AddictionRecoveryStories #TraumaInformedCare #DrugPolicyReform #MentalHealthMatters #RecoveryIsPossible #PeerSupport #OverdosePrevention #RadicalEmpathy #StigmaFreeRecovery #PublicHealthResearch #CriminalJusticeReform #LivedExperienceMatters #IndianaRecovery #CommunityHealing #ShawnPNeal #AdvoCast
    Voir plus Voir moins
    51 min
  • The Impact of Substance Use Disorder on Pregnancy
    Mar 1 2025
    This episode of Beyond Substance explores the complex and often misunderstood topic of substance use disorder during pregnancy and beyond. Hosts Dean Babcock talks with expert Dr. Camila Arnado and Jodi Miller talks with Ashna Clark.

    Segment 1: Co-Host Dean Babcock talks with Dr. Camila Arnaudo. Dr. Arnaudo shares her journey as an addiction psychiatrist, her insights on the complexities of substance use among pregnant individuals, and the evolving trends in substance use. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the risks involved and the need for supportive care for pregnant individuals facing substance use disorders. This conversation delves into the complexities of substance use during and after pregnancy, highlighting the critical postpartum period where risks of relapse and overdose increase.

    Segment 2: In our personal story, Co-Host Jodi Miller welcomes Ashna Clark. Ashna shares her profound journey through addiction, motherhood, and recovery. She reflects on her challenging childhood, early pregnancies, and the difficult decisions she made, including giving her first child up for adoption. Ashna discusses her struggles with substance abuse, the turning points that led her to seek help, and the importance of community support in her recovery. Now a child advocate, she emphasizes the significance of being a present and loving mother, while also offering hope and encouragement to others facing similar challenges.

    Takeaways
    • There are significant barriers to treatment for pregnant women with substance use disorders.
    • The postpartum period presents unique challenges and risks for mothers in recovery.
    • Stigma and fear of judgment prevent many from seeking help.
    • Mothers often love their children deeply, despite their struggles with addiction.
    • The relationship between mother and baby can motivate recovery efforts.
    • Compassionate care is essential in treating substance use disorders during pregnancy.

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to Substance Use Disorder and Pregnancy
    03:08 Understanding the Statistics and Challenges
    06:01 Expert Insights from Dr. Camila Arnado
    12:12 The Complexities of Substance Use During Pregnancy
    17:50 The Postpartum Period: Risks and Realities
    23:59 Stigma and Barriers to Seeking Help
    30:00 Ashna Clark's Journey: A Personal Story of Recovery
    42:03 Hope and Support: Building a New Life
    45:52 Conclusion and Future Discussions

    Voir plus Voir moins
    49 min
  • From Seatbelts to Recovery: Harm Reduction Saves Lives
    Jan 1 2025
    In this episode of the Beyond Substance Podcast, hosts Dean Babcock and Jody Miller explore the transformative power of harm reduction in addressing substance use disorders. They engage in insightful conversations with Erika Chapman from the Indiana State Department of Health and Aisha Diss, founder of project.ME, discussing the importance of meeting individuals where they are, the impact of stigma, and the various forms of harm reduction available.

    Segment 1: In this enlightening conversation, Dean speaks with Erika Chapman, MPH, CPH, CHES. Erika serves as the Harm Reduction Program Manager at the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) in the Division of HIV, STI, and Viral Hepatitis. They explore the concept of harm reduction, particularly focusing on non-syringe harm reduction programs, which provide essential resources and support to individuals affected by substance use disorders. Erica shares her background, the importance of reducing stigma, and how communities can implement harm reduction strategies. Ms. Chapman has been with IDOH since 2006 and has previously served in the roles of HIV Prevention Specialist, Viral Hepatitis Prevention Coordinator, and Surveillance Coordinator.

    Segment 2: Aisha Diss shares her inspiring journey of recovery from addiction and her experiences with the criminal justice system. She discusses her early life, the trauma she faced, and how it led her to a path of substance use. Aisha reflects on her time in prison, the challenges she encountered, and the pivotal moments that motivated her to change her life. She emphasizes the importance of healing, education, and community support in her recovery journey, ultimately leading to the founding of project.ME, an initiative aimed at helping others in similar situations. Aisha Diss shares her journey into coaching and harm reduction, emphasizing the importance of supporting individuals in their recovery journey without judgment.

    Episode Links:
    • https://www.in.gov/health/hiv-std-viral-hepatitis/home/
    • https://www.projectme-fw.org/


    Takeaways:
    • Harm reduction is more than a public health strategy.
    • Non-syringe harm reduction provides essential resources.
    • Harm reduction is a public health theory that reduces risk.
    • Stigma is a significant barrier to seeking help.
    • Compassionate conversations can save lives.

    Chapters:
    00:00 The Power of Storytelling in Recovery
    03:05 Understanding Harm Reduction
    05:51 Non-Syringe Harm Reduction Explained
    08:55 Everyday Examples of Harm Reduction
    11:57 The Role of Stigma in Substance Use
    15:09 Grants and Community Support for Harm Reduction
    17:59 Asha Dis: A Journey of Resilience
    20:46 Transformative Impact of Harm Reduction Programs
    24:12 Building Community and Support
    26:58 The Importance of Dignity and Respect
    30:01 Practical Steps for Community Involvement
    32:55 The Future of Harm Reduction
    35:53 Conclusion: Walking Each Other Home

    Hosted by Dean Babcock and Jodi Miller
    Interview Segment Producer: Angela Shamblin
    Personal Story Producer: Shawn P Neal
    Executive Producer: Shawn P Neal
    Mixed at AvoCast Studio236

    Voir plus Voir moins
    50 min
  • Substance Use Disorder and the Hep-C Connection
    Dec 1 2024
    This episode explores the critical intersection of substance use disorder and hepatitis C, featuring personal stories and expert insights.

    Dean Babcock and his guest, Dr. Janet Arno, discuss the critical intersection of substance use disorder and hepatitis C. They explore the stigma surrounding these issues, the importance of testing and treatment, and the public health implications of addressing these conditions. Dr. Arno shares her extensive background in infectious diseases and emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to be proactive in testing and treating hepatitis C, particularly among populations at risk due to substance use. The conversation highlights the advancements in treatment options and the importance of accessibility to care for all individuals.

    In our personal story, Jodi Miller got to know Jason Rush. Jason shares his personal journey through substance use disorder, detailing his experiences with addiction, the impact of hepatitis C, and his path to recovery. He discusses the challenges of stigma, the importance of seeking help, and the resources available for those struggling with addiction. Jason emphasizes gratitude for his life and sobriety, encouraging others to not be ashamed of their struggles and to reach out for support.

    Episode Links:
    https://www.connecttocure.org/

    Want more from Beyond Substance? Visit us online:
    https://beyondsubstancepodcast.org

    Chapters
    00:00 Connecting Through Stories
    01:49 Understanding Hepatitis C and Substance Use Disorder
    04:12 The Intersection of Public Health and Personal Stories
    09:58 The Risks of Hepatitis C in Substance Use
    16:12 Treatment and Recovery: A Personal Journey
    22:03 Overcoming Stigma and Finding Hope
    27:45 Messages for the Medical Community and Public
    34:01 Jason's Journey: From Addiction to Recovery
    46:10 Lessons Learned and Future Directions

    #addiction #substanceusedisorder #hepc #hepatitisc #RecoveryIsPossible #Stigma #Treatment #PublicHealth #Indiana #Indianapolis #buprenorphine #opioidusedisorder #addictiontreatment #primarycare #recovery #personalstories #healthcaresystem #communitysupport #trauma #healing #resilience #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #peersupport #heroin
    Voir plus Voir moins
    52 min
  • Buprenorphine in Primary Care
    Nov 1 2024
    This episode of Beyond Substance delves into the use of buprenorphine for treating opioid use disorders, featuring insights from Dr. Carol Dellinger and the personal story of Bailey Wisher.

    Dr. Dellinger discusses her extensive experience in treating opioid use disorder with buprenorphine. She shares insights into the evolution of pain management practices, the importance of addressing stigma, and the role of primary care in providing treatment. Dr. Dellinger emphasizes that buprenorphine is a legitimate treatment for opioid addiction, not a substitution for one addiction with another, and highlights the need for a compassionate approach to those struggling with substance use disorders.

    Bailey Wisher shares her harrowing journey through addiction, beginning at a young age and leading to a life of chaos, incarceration, and ultimately recovery. Her story highlights the importance of healing from trauma, overcoming stigma, and the transformative power of support and community. Through her experiences, Bailey emphasizes that recovery is an ongoing process that requires internal work and a shift in mindset, ultimately leading her to help others in their own journeys.

    Takeaways
    • Buprenorphine has made opioid treatment more accessible.
    • Primary care can effectively treat opioid use disorders.
    • Stigma surrounding addiction can hinder recovery efforts.
    • Buprenorphine helps manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
    • Recovery is a continuous journey requiring support.
    • Language matters in discussing addiction and recovery.
    • Many people with addiction started with prescribed opioids.
    • Community support is crucial for successful recovery.
    • Addiction should be treated as a disease, not a moral failing.

    Resources
    • https://iuhealth.org/find-providers/provider/carol-l-dellinger-md-5716
    • https://medicine.iu.edu/faculty/25112/dellinger-carol
    • https://medicine.iu.edu/family-medicine/education/residency
    • https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/65/rr/rr6501e1.htm


    Chapters
    00:00 Connecting Through Stories
    02:49 Understanding Buprenorphine and Its Impact
    06:02 The Role of Primary Care in Addiction Treatment
    09:12 Exploring Buprenorphine: Mechanism and Use
    12:03 Combating Stigma in Opioid Use Disorder
    14:48 Navigating the Healthcare System
    18:07 The Journey of Recovery: Personal Stories
    20:58 The Importance of Language and Stigma
    23:47 Myths and Realities of Addiction Treatment
    27:04 Bailey's Transformation and Healing
    29:59 The Power of Community and Support
    33:04 Looking Ahead: Future of Treatment
    35:48 Closing Thoughts and Resources

    Keywords
    #buprenorphine #opioidusedisorder #addictiontreatment #primary care #stigma #recovery #personalstories #healthcaresystem #community support #addiction #trauma #healing #resilience #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #peersupport #heroin #recoveryispossible



    Voir plus Voir moins
    51 min
  • Waking Up A Community
    Oct 1 2024
    This episode of Beyond Substance explores the profound impact of community-driven recovery efforts in Scott County, Indiana, particularly in response to a significant HIV outbreak linked to substance use. Through personal stories of struggle and resilience, the conversation highlights the importance of collaboration, the power of lived experiences, and the establishment of recovery organizations like Thrive, which provide hope and resources for those battling addiction. The episode emphasizes that recovery is a journey that requires community support, understanding, and a commitment to breaking down barriers and stigma surrounding addiction.Hosts: Dean Babcock and Jodi MillerSegment 1: Professional Interview with Carissa MillerIn the first segment, Dean Babcock talks with Carissa Miller, a licensed clinical social worker deeply involved in addressing substance use disorders. Carissa shares her background, including her personal and professional journey with substance use issues. She provides a comprehensive history of the HIV outbreak in Scott County, highlighting the community's challenges such as high poverty rates, misuse of prescription opioids, and lack of awareness about infectious diseases. Carissa discusses response measures including increased HIV testing, state and federal assistance, and the establishment of a syringe service program. She emphasizes the significance of involving the voices of those with lived experiences in addressing community issues and stresses the "Nothing about us without us" philosophy. Dean and Carissa explore the combined community response efforts and share advice for other communities dealing with similar crisesSegment 2: Personal Story Featuring Phil StuckeyThe second segment features co-host Jodi Miller introducing an inspiring personal recovery story with Phil Stuckey, CEO of Thrive. Phil recounts his journey from addiction to leadership within the recovery community. From his initial neck injury at 16 to his struggle with pain medication addiction, Phil describes his transition from law enforcement to living on the streets due to his heroin addiction. He reaches a turning point, choosing to discard his drug kit and marking his last day of drug use on November 16, 2014. Phil's dedication to recovery leads him to co-found Thrive, a recovery community organization. His narrative is a testament to the power of community and second chances, demonstrating transformations achieved through mutual aid and peer support meetings.Additional Informationhe episode also includes a detailed report by Angela Shamblin on the timeline and statistics of the HIV outbreak, as well as discussions on the success of intervention measures. The community's collaborative efforts, including initiatives like Recovery Oriented Systems of Care (ROSC) and the Holding Space Recovery Project, are highlighted. The episode closes with insights into future plans and initiatives to further support the community's recovery and health.Beyond Substance continues to emphasize the importance of community involvement, holistic approaches, and collaborative efforts to overcome substance use disorders and associated crises.Resourceshttps://www.scottcountypartnership.orghttps://www.scottcountyfoundation.org/community-initiatives/community-needs-assessment/https://www.in.gov/health/safesleep/fatality-review/overdose-fatality-review/https://www.scottcountysheriff.org/press_view.php?id=920https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561408058251https://scpartnership.org/get-healthy-scott-county-coalition/https://www.gethealthyscottcounty.org/https://scpartnership.org/empower-youth-coalition/https://pttcnetwork.org/center/great-lakes-pttc/
    Voir plus Voir moins
    48 min
  • More Than Medicine: Opioid Treatment Programs (Methadone)
    Sep 3 2024
    This episode of the Beyond Substance podcast focuses on the experience of receiving care in an opioid treatment program, commonly known as a methadone clinic. The hosts speak with Dr. Carolyn Warner-Greer, an addiction medicine specialist, and share the personal story of Brandy Vaughn, a former patient. The episode highlights the effectiveness of methadone in treating opioid use disorder and the comprehensive support services provided in opioid treatment programs. It also addresses the stigma surrounding addiction and the importance of understanding and supporting individuals in recovery.


    Takeaways
    • Methadone is an effective medication for treating opioid use disorder and reducing the risk of overdose and death.
    • Opioid treatment programs provide comprehensive support services, including counseling, mental health care, primary health care, and assistance with social needs.
    • The stigma surrounding addiction can be a barrier to seeking and receiving treatment.
    • Receiving care in an opioid treatment program requires dedication and commitment, as patients often need to visit the clinic daily or regularly.
    • Understanding and supporting individuals in recovery is crucial for their success and well-being.


    Sound Bites
    • "Methadone is a full agonist. We can start it right away, don't have to wait for anyone to be experiencing withdrawal or wait a certain period of time or anything like that."
    • "We wouldn't say, well, hey, we just got your blood pressure good, let's stop everything that we got you there. Start smoking again, quit exercising, eat fast food, don't take your medicines, and we'll see what happens because we don't expect chronic illnesses to be cured."
    • "You're not just trading a drug for a drug. You're trading a drug for a medication with treatment and support."

    Chapters00:00 Introduction and Overview
    03:15 Inside the Opioid Treatment Program
    08:31The Effectiveness of Methadone Treatment
    15:14 Personal Story: From Desperation to Hope
    20:24 Comprehensive Support Services in Opioid Treatment Programs
    26:03 Challenging Misconceptions about Methadone
    32:52 Conclusion and Call to Action
    Voir plus Voir moins
    54 min