The Shield

S2E8: Emotional Sobriety, Creative Compass, and Life After Addiction with Heidi Moos

Thu, 14 May 2026 00:00:00 -0500

What happens after you get sober? Quitting the substance is just the beginning; building a life you actually want to live is the next step.

Welcome back to Season 2 of The Shield! Today, Nichole sits down with Heidi Moos, the founder of Creative Compass and a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist. Heidi shares her incredible journey from being a middle school teacher for the "quiet kids" to helping adults navigate life after addiction.

We dive deep into the concept of "emotional sobriety," how to regulate your nervous system through creative play, and why Heidi launched "Art Lab"—a wildly popular, free community art class for people in recovery and their friends. (Spoiler: You don't have to be "good at art" to attend! )

In this episode, we cover:

Emotional Sobriety: How to self-soothe and level up once the substance is gone.
The "Whole Student": Why good teachers change lives, and why Heidi created a "Fan Club" for the middle school misfits.
The Evolution of Recovery: Moving away from "fixing losers" to treating the whole human.
Art Lab: Why process matters more than the finished product, and how to join.
A Hack for Anger: Heidi’s personal art technique for clearing the mind.

Thank you to our Season 2 sponsor: The Children's Trust Fund of Alabama.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

S2E7: Harm Reduction, Heavy Bass, and Safe Spaces with Slinger Entertainment

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Electronic music, heavy bass, and... Narcan?

In this episode of The Shield, Nichole sits down with Anthony Phillips, Sam, and Parker—the team behind Birmingham’s own Slinger Entertainment. Slinger isn't just throwing immersive EDM and bass music events; they are actively working to keep their community alive and safe.

We discuss how Slinger partnered with APC to distribute over 600 Narcan cases to concertgoers. The guys also open up about navigating the entertainment industry's party culture, Parker's inspiring 6-year sobriety journey, and why harm reduction is the ultimate form of community building.

In this episode, we cover:

Why Slinger views Narcan like a "fire extinguisher".
How Parker navigates the EDM scene while being 6 years sober.
The genius behind "Fat Stack" events for local DJs.
The secret to mixing a live band versus electronic music.
Finding your community in Birmingham's Avondale and Woodlawn scenes.

Thank you to our Season 2 sponsor: The Children's Trust Fund of Alabama.

🔗 Resources Mentioned:

Follow Slinger Entertainment on Instagram for upcoming shows (like May 30th at Saturn!).

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

S2E6: Aging, Caregiver Burnout, and Grandparents Raising Grandkids with Morgan Rhodes

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0500

How does the addiction crisis affect our oldest generations? You might be surprised.

Welcome back to Season 2 of The Shield! In this episode, Nicole sits down with Morgan Rhodes, a program coordinator at the Area Agency on Aging (based out of the United Way of Central Alabama). Morgan pulls back the curtain on the unique mental health challenges older adults face and the incredible, free resources available to them and their families.

We dive deep into the emotional toll of caregiving, the rising trend of grandparents raising grandchildren due to the opioid crisis, and how a new influx of opioid settlement dollars is providing a lifeline to these families. Plus, Morgan shares expert advice on how to protect seniors from rampant Medicare fraud and modern digital scams.

In this episode, we cover:

The transition from being a full-time caregiver to finding a new identity.
How to have the difficult "giving up the car keys" conversation.
The Older Relative Caregiver Program for those impacted by substance use.
Why seniors are heavily targeted by Medicare and phishing scams.
The upcoming free Fraud Summit on May 12th in Hoover.

Thank you to our Season 2 sponsor: The Children's Trust Fund of Alabama.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

S2E5: The Final Walk: Celebrating 10 Years of Impact with Alabama

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0500

10 years ago, the End Addiction Walk was born out of a desperate need to take to the streets and let Birmingham know that help was available. Today, as we celebrate our 10th anniversary, we are preparing for our most impactful event yet—and our final one.

Nicole and board member Alabama Cole (The Q 103.7) discuss the evolution of the walk, the new resources available this year (including HIV/Hep C screenings and peer support rows), and why it’s time for APC to graduate into a new chapter.

Register now to join us for this historic event on April 25th, 2026.

https://secure.swell.gives/ENDADDICTIONBHAM/tickets/#/ticket

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

S2E4: Street Medicine, Housing First, and Reaching the Unhoused | Cat Cruz & Dr. Craig Borne

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 14:00:00 -0500

What happens when you take healthcare out of the clinic and bring it directly to the streets?

Welcome back to Season 2 of The Shield Podcast!

In this episode, Nicole sits down with Cat Cruz (One Roof) and Dr. Craig Bourne (Cahaba Medical Care) to discuss a groundbreaking new initiative in Birmingham: Care for Our Journey. This interdisciplinary street medicine coalition combines housing navigation, addiction resources, and holistic medical care to meet the unhoused population exactly where they are.

From administering joint injections out of a "soccer mom van" to navigating the complexities of the "savior complex" in social work, Cat and Craig pull back the curtain on what street outreach truly looks like. We discuss the realities of Housing First initiatives, the importance of building trust, and why true success might just mean helping someone get their state ID.

In this episode, we cover:

What is "Street Medicine" and why is it essential for Birmingham?
Breaking the stereotype: Why some individuals choose to sleep rough while working full-time.
How One Roof, Cahaba Medical Care, and Recovery Resource Center collaborate to reduce barriers to care.
How to support the Care for Our Journey initiative.

Thank you to our Season 2 sponsor: The Children's Trust Fund of Alabama.

Resources:

Learn more & view the Amazon Wishlist at One Roof: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1BSQCXXQCWBEB?ref_=wl_share

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

S2E3: Why 90% Leave Narcan at Home (And How N-Case is Fixing It) with Matt Bitner-Glindzicz

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0600

Welcome back to The Shield Podcast! Today we have our first-ever virtual guest: Matt Bitner-Glindzicz, the aerospace engineer and co-founder of nCase Tech.

After his fiancée tragically lost a childhood friend to an opioid overdose simply because their life-saving Narcan was left at home, Matt realized there was a massive gap in overdose prevention. The medication is too bulky and highly stigmatized, resulting in 90% of owners leaving it behind. Matt left the space-tech industry to engineer a virtually indestructible, discreet, waterproof keychain case for Narcan.

In this episode, Nichole and Matt discuss the tragic origins of nCase, the public health data proving its massive success, and how you can get one for yourself to help save lives at festivals, concerts, and in your daily life.

In this episode, we cover:

Why 90% of people leave their Narcan at home.
The tragic event that sparked the creation of N-Case.
Why the blister pack is terrible for carrying Naloxone.
The engineering behind making a waterproof, crush-proof case.
How the APC is distributing these in Birmingham.

Thank you to our Season 2 sponsor: The Children's Trust Fund of Alabama.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

S2E2: The 3rd Grade Prison Pipeline & Putting NBA YoungBoy on Trial with Carrie Buntain

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600

Welcome back to Season 2 of The Shield! Today, we are joined by Carrie Buntain, former prosecutor and current Executive Director of the Family Resource Center, located right inside the Jefferson County Family Court.

Carrie pulls back the curtain on the brutal realities of the juvenile justice system, intergenerational trauma, and why a child's life trajectory is often decided by the 3rd grade. But this isn't just a conversation about the problems—it's a masterclass in innovative solutions, including a brilliant story about how her team used a mock trial of rapper NBA YoungBoy to keep high-risk youth out of jail.

In this episode, we discuss:

The reality of prosecuting child abuse cases.
Why Section 8 housing shifts are causing community violence.
The direct link between truancy and future murder charges.
How the FRC acts as a lifeline for families in crisis.

Don't forget to Subscribe to The Shield for more incredible stories from the frontlines of mental health and substance use prevention!

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

S2E1: The Man in the Brooks Brothers Suit: Frank Long on Politics, Addiction, and Radical Grace

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600

Welcome back to Season 2 of The Shield! We are kicking things off with a story of massive transformation—both personal and community-wide.

In this episode, host Nicole reaches out to Frank Long, the Development Director at The Lovelady Center. Before Frank was helping lead the largest transitional center for women in the country, he was navigating the high-stakes world of Alabama politics. He wore the "Brooks Brothers suits" and worked for governors, but secretly, he was wearing a mask to hide a severe battle with addiction.

Frank opens up about his journey from the State House to recovery, and takes us inside the "City Within a City". With over 560 women and 120 children living on-site , The Lovelady Center is doing more than just rehab—they are rebuilding lives through dental schools, cosmetology programs, and radical community.

In this episode, we discuss:

The Politician’s Mask: Frank’s struggle with high-functioning addiction while working in Montgomery politics.

The "City Within a City": How The Lovelady Center feeds 1,950 meals a day and houses over 600 people.

Breaking Barriers: Why the center includes a daycare, extensive medical care, and vocational schools.

The Impossible Story: You have to hear the story of Jocelyn James—a Lovelady graduate who donated her kidney to the police officer who arrested her multiple times.

Resources Mentioned:

The Lovelady Center: https://www.loveladycenter.org/

Children's Trust Fund of Alabama (Season Sponsor)

Timestamps: 0:00 - Welcome to Season 2! 03:26 - Meet Frank Long 06:28 - The "Brooks Brothers" Mask: Addiction in Politics 11:58 - Finding The Lovelady Center 16:37 - A "City Within a City": The Lovelady Stats 28:21 - Why Dental Care Changes Lives 33:25 - The Miracle Story: Jocelyn James & The Kidney 36:24 - How to Get Involved

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Life on the Edge: A Conversation with George Cowgill

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In the season finale of The Shield, Nichole sits down with George Cowgill, a true Birmingham native and the owner of the Black Market Bar + Grill. George reflects on his experience as a firefighter and how it shaped the way he approaches life, work, and community. He shares insights from his journey of building one of Birmingham’s most popular bar and grills, navigating the challenges of running a business, and making intentional choices that align with his values.

Beyond the business, George talks about being straight-edge and supporting employees in recovery, creating a workplace built on respect and accountability. This episode highlights his life choices, showing how people can support a recovery community even while owning a bar and grill. Life is full of surprises—and George is only just getting started.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Meeting the Moment: A Conversation with Rosie Stafford Smith

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of The Shield, Nichole sits down with Rosie Stafford Smith, Founder and CEO of Zadie & Co. — a nationally recognized consulting firm that helps nonprofit leaders and philanthropists reach their greatest potential.

Although a Birmingham native, Rosie first connected with Nichole through St. Louis, where their paths crossed. She has since supported Nichole and the Addiction Prevention Coalition in strengthening their mission and impact through strategic planning.

Tune in for a warm, insightful conversation about leadership, authenticity, and the power of surrounding yourself with people who make you better — both personally and professionally.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Bridging Gaps: A Conversation with Dr. Pauline Long and Dr. Jennifer Campbell

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0500

On this episode of The Shield with Nichole Dawsey, Nichole is joined by Dr. Pauline Long and Dr. Jennifer Campbell, co-owners of MedsPLUS Consulting in Birmingham. With more than 20 years of experience working side by side, Dr. Pauline and Dr. Jennifer lead their pharmacy with a mission to provide personalized health support, especially for underserved communities.

They share how MedsPLUS focuses on medication management, preventive care, and innovative tools like blister packs to help patients stay on track. Together, they discuss the importance of breaking down stigma, building transparency, and fostering trust in healthcare. From mental health resources to health education, their conversation highlights the power of community and the role of pharmacists in bridging gaps in care.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Accessible Healing: A Conversation with Liz Read

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Nichole sits down with Liz Read to discuss The Renewal Project, a new nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating financial barriers to mental and behavioral health treatment for Alabama residents. Liz shares her journey to becoming the Executive Director, including her past experience leading Clearlee, a startup focused on creating new and innovative approaches to drug testing that were both dignified and encouraged accountability. They also talk about The Renewal Project’s upcoming soft launch this fall, the hard launch planned for January, and how the Addiction Prevention Coalition (APC) became a fiscal sponsor, aligning with APC’s mission to strengthen community well-being.

Liz and Nichole also explore what The Renewal Project is looking for in partner providers and encourage community members to stay connected. For anyone who may need this type of support—or wants to help expand access to care—this conversation is an opportunity to learn how to stay informed, get involved, and be part of the movement to make treatment more accessible in Alabama.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Faith in Community: A Conversation with Micah Andrews

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0500

This week on The Shield, Nichole sits down with Micah Andrews, Executive Director of The Foundry, as they celebrate 55 years of helping people rebuild their lives.

From its beginnings as a rescue mission to becoming a faith-based residential recovery program, The Foundry has evolved to meet people where they are. Micah opens up about his personal journey, the role faith has played in shaping his leadership, and what it takes to build and sustain a $10 million nonprofit. He also dives into how The Foundry helps people through counseling, education, employment readiness, and aftercare.

Tune in for honest stories about second chances, repairing burned bridges, and the hope that comes from a place like The Foundry.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

The World Baseball League: A Conversation with Gaines Johnson

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0500

For today’s episode, Nichole sits down with Gaines Johnson, president and creator of The World Baseball League. Inspired by conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, Gaines developed the league as a way to combine baseball and entertainment at an affordable price. He shares his passion for the sport, his vision for creating a community-centered experience, and how he hopes to make the game more accessible and exciting for families.

Gaines also opens up about his diverse career paths and personal life experiences, including his decision to stop drinking for a clearer mind. He discusses the role alcohol plays in baseball culture, how he’s examined his own relationship with it, and how The World Baseball League is designed to be family-friendly while promoting a sober lifestyle.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Let’s Go Do Sh!t: A Conversation with Brandon Baez

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of The Shield, Nichole has a no-holds-barred conversation with Brandon Baez, founder of Active Recovery Outreach. Brandon Baez prides his work on recognizing that recovery is more than just abstaining from substances but fostering community support. He created Lets Go Do Sh!t, a social group for those in recovery or recovery curious.

This group emphasizes living in the moment and that a life of sobriety goes beyond the walls of a recovery meeting. The group focuses on engaging with life - from paint ball to bowling. No matter the steps you follow, or your path to recovery, Active Recovery Outreach reduces stigma, fosters connection, and most importantly has fun! Together, Brandon and Nichole discuss his personal path to recovery, building relationships, and bringing the excitement to life without substance use.

Check out Active Recovery Outreach or join the Lets Go Do Sh!t Facebook page to learn more, and listen to this episode of The Shield!

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Serving Up Support: A Conversation with Katelyn Whitmore

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of The Shield, Nichole sits down with Katelyn Whitmore, Front of House Manager at Birmingham’s iconic Bottega. Although Katelyn graduated with a degree in education, she found her true passion in the hospitality industry—a fast-paced world where connection and experience come together through food and service.

Katelyn opens up about the joys and challenges of working in restaurants, sharing how the pressures of the industry contributed to her struggle with substance use disorder. Thanks to a strong support system and the love of her family, she found a path to recovery and transformed her experience into a mission to help others.

She co-founded PreShift, a support group designed for hospitality workers who are sober-curious, in recovery, or simply seeking a safe space to talk about the unique stresses of the industry.

Join us for this inspiring and honest conversation about resilience, healing, and the power of community in an often demanding world.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

The Kids are Alright: A Conversation with Jacques and Brent from the WOW Forum Podcast

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Join us for a special episode as Nichole sits down with two inspiring students from Woodlawn High School to talk about the WOW Forum—which stands for Wisdom of Woodlawn. This youth-centered platform amplifies young voices through podcast episodes, creative workshops, and honest community dialogue. WOW explores personal and collective growth while celebrating the wisdom already present in our neighborhoods.

In this meaningful conversation, Jacques and Brent open up about the challenges of being high school students today, their hopes for the future, and the importance of building stronger community connections. And in a fun twist, they turn the mic around and interview Nichole—putting her in the hot seat!

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

A Shift in the Mindset: A Conversation with Alabama

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we sit down with Alabama, syndicated radio personality and host of The Alabama Show on 103.7 The Q. Alabama shares how a simple email to APC turned into a meaningful partnership rooted in her personal experience—the overdose loss of her mother. She opens up about how this tragedy impacted her and how she uses her platform to amplify her mother's story, creating space for families and individuals affected by substance use disorder.

Alabama also reflects on her path into radio and how making key mindset shifts has helped her grow—personally and professionally. These changes have shaped how she shows up in the world and deepened her ability to connect with others. She also shares what life looks like outside of the studio, including her love for animals. Tune in for an honest, powerful conversation about healing, purpose, and using your voice to build community.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

From Stigma to Support: A Conversation with Dr. Emma Kay

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0500

On this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Emma Kay, Associate Professor at UAB’s School of Nursing and someone who's doing incredible work at the intersection of HIV care, substance use, and harm reduction. She’s all about building real, lasting connections between healthcare providers and the people they serve—especially those facing stigma and barriers to care. From her roles at the UAB Center for AIDS Research and the Center for Addiction and Pain Prevention and Intervention, Dr. Kay is helping shift how the medical world supports people with HIV and substance use disorders.

In our conversation, Dr. Kay breaks down what relational harm reduction really means—and how it can completely reshape healthcare. We talk about how her early experiences during an undergrad internship opened her eyes to the deep-rooted stigma around HIV, and how that pushed her toward work focused on empathy, trust, and patient-provider relationships. She shares how creating space for real, honest communication isn’t just ideal—it’s essential for better outcomes, especially for those often left out of the system.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Just Breathe: A Conversation with Jamella Stroud

Thu, 22 May 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Join us for a meaningful conversation with Jamella Stroud, a somatic yoga therapist and founder of Sacred Soma Yoga and Therapy. Jamella takes a calm, grounded approach to helping people heal, especially those dealing with trauma, mental health challenges, or growing up around Substance Use Disorder. Her work is all about reconnecting with the body and finding peace through movement and breath.

We talk about her Exhale to Excel Yoga Program for students, her healing retreats in Bali, and what it means to truly listen to your body. Jamella reminds us that even in the chaos, there’s power in slowing down—and that sometimes, healing starts with simply remembering to breathe.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Empowering Recovery: A Conversation with Elizabeth Norman

Thu, 08 May 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Elizabeth Norman, Executive Director of Fellowship House, has dedicated over 12 years to helping individuals prepare for recovery and rebuild their lives. Fellowship House is a nonprofit organization that provides comprehensive recovery programs for people struggling with alcoholism, drug addiction, and co-occurring mental health disorders. In this episode, Elizabeth shares the heart behind the work and the importance of meeting people where they are—offering support and resources that lay the foundation for long-term recovery.

As Fellowship House approaches its 60th anniversary, Elizabeth reflects on her journey through the organization and how it has grown to meet the changing needs of the community. From starting her career there to becoming Executive Director, she discusses what it means to be part of this powerful mission and how others can get involved to support and expand its impact.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Journey to Impact: A Conversation with Dr. Tamika Holmes

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Dr. Tamika Holmes is the Founder and Executive Director of Community Care Development Network, a nonprofit rooted in her personal journey. Growing up with challenges that shaped her perspective, Dr. Holmes was inspired to create a space where families feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.

In this episode, Dr. Holmes shares how her experiences led to building a strong community resource. She also discusses the services offered by Community Care Development Network and how the power of support and connection helped her become the leader she is today.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Show and Prove: A Conversation with Shaheed Tawheed

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 16:00:00 -0500

Shaheed Tawheed is a hip-hop artist, advocate, and co-founder of Knowledge, Rhythm, and Understanding (K.R.U.), a foundation that teaches children and teens the core elements of Hip Hop, including deejaying, emceeing, breakdancing, and graffiti art. Shaheed’s love for music and hip-hop, combined with his life experiences and strong family foundation, have shaped him into the man he is today—and he aims to inspire others through his work.

Tune in as Shaheed discusses the importance of using the elements of Hip Hop to teach young people about mental health and positive coping skills. He also highlights how hip-hop is more than mainstream media's portrayal—it's a movement for advocacy and empowerment, showing the power of using your voice to make a difference.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Connecting Through Recovery: A Conversation with Shane Herring and Tim Cross

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Shane Herring, our Champion for the Cause, and Tim Cross, the CEO of Expedited Transport Agency (ETA), the presenting sponsor for the 2025 End Addiction Walk. In this episode, we discuss why they’re passionate about supporting this walk, their personal journeys through battling substance use disorder, and the impact of recovery. Tune in to hear how their dedication is shaping this year’s event and strengthening community connections in the fight against addiction.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Fulfilling Essential Needs: A Conversation with Lindsay Gray

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0600

Lindsay Gray is the Executive Director of Bundles of Hope, a nonprofit focused on providing essential resources to mothers and babies in need. What began as a mission to supply diapers has blossomed into a community-driven effort, with Lindsay’s passion and background in nursing at its core. Under her leadership, Bundles of Hope has grown to provide over 10,000,000 diapers, expanding its reach to offer other essential products based on direct feedback from the community.

Tune in as Lindsay shares her story and discusses the significance of caring for both the mother and child, showing how Bundles of Hope’s work goes far beyond just providing diapers—it's about offering holistic support, building a stronger community, and ensuring mothers and babies have the essentials they need to thrive.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Building Genuine Relationships: A Conversation with Kelly Greene

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0600

Kelly Greene is the Founder and Executive Director of Food for Our Journey, a nonprofit dedicated to providing food and essential services to the unhoused community. What started as a passion project quickly grew into a vital resource, thanks to Kelly’s faith, dedication, and background in youth ministry.

Tune in as Kelly shares her journey and talks about the importance of taking the time to listen, understand, and build genuine relationships—because their work is about more than just food; it’s about community and compassion.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Learning a New Language: A Conversation with Dr. Angela Sullivan

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0600

Dr. Angela Sullivan is an Assistant Professor and Assistant Dean for Admissions and Enrollment Management for UAB’s School of Public Health. She is also the Board President of the Alabama Suicide Prevention and Resources Coalition (ASPARC), an organization that provides suicide prevention trainings statewide. Angela is a strong advocate for suicide prevention, and through her research, she works to learn more about the factors that lead to suicide and how to prevent it. As part of her advocacy for suicide prevention, she is also passionate about helping others change the language they use when discussing suicide.

To learn more about ASPARC: https://asparc.org/

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Answering the Call: A Conversation with Brandon Broadhead

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0600

Join us for a conversation with Homewood’s Fire Chief, Brandon Broadhead, who has been vital to the implementation of APC's ONEbox initiative in Central Alabama!

Chief Broadhead discusses how he became interested in becoming a first responder and his passion for helping others. In addition to being an advocate for the accessibility of Naloxone, Chief Broadhead is a strong advocate for mental health wellness for not only his first responders, but for all citizens. APC connected with Chief Broadhead through the implementation of APC’s ONEbox initiative. Chief Broadhead was pivotal in making the initiative successful, and has worked to install more than 40 ONEboxes in the City of Homewood as an addition to their AED program.

To learn more about ONEbox visit https://apcbham.org/onebox/

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Our Future Leaders: A Conversation with Dr. Sherri Huff

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0600

Join us as Dr. Sherri Huff with Birmingham City Schools (BCS) discusses her role in launching wellness initiatives in BCS and helping promote the mental health and wellbeing of all BCS students.

In addition to being an APC Board Member, Dr. Huff also serves as the Program Specialist for Birmingham City Schools’ Physical, Health, and Driver’s Education programs. Dr Huff is a staunch advocate for mental health wellness for BCS’ students. When it comes to implementing prevention education and mental health education in BCS, Dr. Huff has been pivotal. She discusses why she thinks addressing mental health in BSC’s students is important, and the potential for all BCS students to be successful.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Passing the Torch: A Conversation with Carie Wimberly

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Join us as APC’s new Executive Director, Nichole Dawsey, interviews APC’s former Executive Director, Carie Wimberly, ahead of her formal retirement from APC.

Since November 2020, Carie Wimberly has served as the Executive Director of APC. Since then, APC has rapidly expanded its staff, programs, and community impact. Carie walks us through her previous career, how she found her way to APC, and her plans after her retirement from APC. In addition, Carie discusses her legacy at APC, and how proud she is of how APC has become an authentic and trusted community partner.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

KLA Memorial: A Conversation with Tomeka Walker

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Join us as the Founder and Executive Director of Khairi and Little Angels Memorial (KLA Memorial), Tomeka Walker, discusses the events that led to her creating KLA Memorial and how the organization supports mothers and families, who have lost an infant.

After the experience of losing her infant son, Khairi, in May 2014, Tomeka began Khairi and Little Angels Memorial as an organization to support women and families, who have experienced the loss of an infant between 20 weeks and 12 months old. In addition to supporting mothers and families, who are low income, with the burial of their infant, they also support the mental health of mothers and the family through the grief process. In 2025, KLA Memorial plans to expand their services to include more education on maternal mental health and child birth education.

Visit klamemorial.org to learn more about KLA Memorial.

Visit https://www.alabamanonprofits.org/2024-short-films to watch the short film on KLA Memorial, which was featured at the Alabama Association of Non-Profits' film festival.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Strong, Smart, and Bold: A Conversation with Lige’ Richardson-Shears

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Lige’ is the Director of Community Engagement with Girls, Inc. of Central Alabama. Throughout her career, she has worked in various areas of prevention and mental health wellness. With her prior experience, she was led to Girls, Inc. where she fosters community collaboration, while also providing prevention services through mentoring programs, teaching girls life skills, and promoting health and wellness.

Girls, Inc. of Central Alabama is an affiliate of Girl, Inc., an international organization that inspires all girls to be Strong, Smart and Bold. If you’re interested in participating in Giving Tree or volunteering with Girls, Inc. of Central Alabama, contact the Volunteer and Development Manager, Mary Nix Hardin at mhardin@girlsinccentral-al.org

Link to the Girls, Inc site: https://girlsinccentral-al.org/

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Serving Support: A Conversation with Anthony Phillips

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Anthony is a local business owner and is well known within Birmingham’s service industry.

Anthony joins Nichole to discuss how he has been sober from alcohol for 2.5 years while still actively working in the service industry, which historically, has had high rates of substance use.

Anthony also tells us about an initiative he started to support those working in the service industry, who are in recovery or are seeking recovery. This initiative was launched for those working the service industry to gather and discuss recovery, which is usually a unique journey for people working in hospitality and the service industry.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Ask the Question: A Conversation with Cheryl Dodson

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Join us for the first episode of The Shield featuring Cheryl Dodson, the Executive Director of the Alabama Suicide Prevention and Resource Coalition (ASPARC)!

Cheryl was featured on the popular 2017 podcast, S-Town, which followed her friend, John, who died by suicide. The podcast served as a catalyst, and Cheryl found her way into the field of suicide prevention. Since then, Cheryl has been pivotal to promoting suicide prevention in the State of Alabama by conducting QPR (Question, Persuade and Refer) trainings throughout Alabama. QPR is the mental health version of CPR, and it equips people with the skills to ask someone if they are having thoughts of suicide and how to connect them to help.

If you are interested in getting yourself or a group trained in QPR, then, please visit ASPARC’s website https://asparc.org/ or https://apctrainings.org/

If you need support, please contact 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, by call or text.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Passion for Prevention: A Conversation with Nichole Dawsey

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Join us as we get to know APC’s new Deputy Director, Nichole Dawsey, and learn more about how she found her way into the field of prevention and how she came to APC! Also, stay tuned for a special announcement from APC’s Executive Director, Carie Wimberly.

In July 2024, Nichole Dawsey moved to Birmingham from St. Louis, Missouri. Before coming to APC, she worked in various roles at PreventEd, a prevention provider in St. Louis. Most recently, she served as PreventEd’s Executive Director for six years. Nichole shares with us her love for prevention, and her passion for working with students outside of the formal classroom setting, which she discovered while working as a teacher in Louisiana. Throughout the episode, we learn how Nichole’s professional and personal experiences led her to the prevention field.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Restoring Dignity Through Drug Court: A Conversation with Judge Fortune

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Join us as Judge Maria Fortune tells us about presiding over Jefferson County Drug Court and her role in helping Drug Court participants be successful!

Judge Maria Fortune serves as a Criminal District Court Judge, presiding over Drug Court in Jefferson County. Judge Fortune grew up in Denver, Colorado, and from an early age, she knew that she wanted a career in law. As a child, she observed disparities in the criminal justice system, and wanted to become a judge, who listened to and looked at the defendant and their world beyond their criminal charges.

Before she began presiding over Drug Court, she practiced law in various capacities in Colorado, Washington, D.C., and Alabama. Today, Judge Fortune works to help people get their lives back on track after they have entered the criminal justice system due to their substance use. Judge Fortune is popular in the Birmingham area and among the recovery community for helping hundreds of people live a happy, healthy, and productive life without substances.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Unbound Grace: A Conversation with Tyler Harris

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Join us as Tyler Harris discusses his recovery journey and the work he does at Unbound Grace to support those in or seeking recovery.

In this episode, Tyler Harris tells us about growing up in Birmingham and attending Auburn University. Tyler’s substance use escalated while he was in college, which led to concerning health and legal consequences. Today, Tyler is thriving in his recovery, and he is using his experience and faith to help others seeking help and support for their substance use. Tyler works with Unbound Grace, a Birmingham based organization that supports people seeking recovery and helps them find hope in the wilderness of addiction.

To learn more about Unbound Grace: https://www.unboundgrace.life/groups

John Steakley’s book referenced in the episode: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1959099736?ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_FZQC8PMD6ZYHBEB4RJXY&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_FZQC8PMD6ZYHBEB4RJXY&social_share=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_FZQC8PMD6ZYHBEB4RJXY

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

A Day of Hope: A Review of End Addiction Bham 2024

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Lauren Sisler joins APC’s Executive Director, Carie Wimberly, and APC’s podcast producer, Ronnie Gatrey, to review End Addiction Bham 2024.

End Addiction Bham is an annual event that APC hosts each spring to promote awareness of substance misuse, provide hope, and provide connection. Each year this event draws several thousand people. Many participants are in recovery, some have lost a loved one to substance use, and others simply want to support eliminating the stigma of mental health and substance use. In addition to discussing their favorite parts of the End Addiction Bham festivities, our hosts also discuss how EAB has grown and changed over the past 8 years, and all the work that goes on behind the scenes to make EAB happen flawlessly.

Did you miss EAB 2024? It’s not too late to donate: https://endaddictionbham.swell.gives/

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Numb: A Conversation with Shane Herring

Thu, 09 May 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Join us as Shane Herring discusses his experience with losing his sister to a substance use disorder, the impact it had on his life, and how he is using his own experiences and recovery journey to positively impact lives.

Shane Herring is the Manger of Clinical Operations for UAB Medicine’s Center for Psychiatric Medicine and the Program Director for UAB Medicine’s Addiction Scholars Program. In addition to serving in multiple roles with UAB, he is also a board member for the Addiction Prevention Coalition and a person in long-term recovery. Shane tells us about how the grief of losing his sister impacted him and his family, and how it was a contributing factor to his substance use. After a medical emergency, Shane was inspired to join the medical field by a nurse, who was supportive of people with substance use disorders. Today, Shane works to lead initiatives that support those with substance use disorders. He also works to educate healthcare professionals on the specific needs of those with substance use disorders and how to provide non-stigmatizing, supportive medical care.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

An Act of Service: A Conversation with Jasmine Gilbert

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500

oin us as Jasmine Gilbert tells us about the work she does with local students and the implementation of prevention efforts in Birmingham.

Jasmine, a Birmingham native and an alumna of Birmingham City Schools, discusses her love for the City of Birmingham and her determination of to enrich the lives of Birmingham residents. Jasmine is currently the Program Director for APC’s SAMHSA grant, Strategic Prevention Framework-Partnerships for Success. In addition to working with a team to coordinate substance use prevention efforts within the City of Birmingham, she also coordinates APC’s student programs. Jasmine shares with us her love for working with students and watching them develop into young leaders within their schools and their community.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Narcan Nancy: A Conversation with Candace Rachel

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 18:00:00 -0500

Join us as Candace Rachel, the Rapid Response Coordinator for the Jefferson County Department of Health’s Overdose Data to Action (OD2A) initiative, tells us about the work that is being done to combat opioid overdoses in Alabama.

Candace, who is jokingly known as “Narcan Nancy” by many people she has trained on how to administer Naloxone, discusses how she became interested in working with people, who are less resourced. She also discusses her love for APC’s pop-up resource fairs, which are hosted in areas with high overdose rates and few resources. Pop-up resource fairs are designed to meet people where they are and take resources directly to people, who need them the most. Candace also discusses the reduction in the perception of risk of adolescent substance use, and the importance of parents talking to their children about substance use.

Naloxone (Narcan) is now available over the counter, but it can still be obtained for free through the Jefferson County Department of Health for Alabama residents.

https://jcdh.org/SitePages/Programs-Services/CommunityHealth/SubstanceUseandAddiction/NaloxoneFentanylTraining.aspx

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Compact: A Conversation with Adam Schniper and Janae Pinson

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Join us as Adam Schniper and Janae Pinson from Compact tell us about Compact's substance use prevention initiatives in Shelby County, Alabama, and how Compact has become a trusted, vital community resource.

In 2016, Compact was established by the Shelby County District Attorney with the goal of reducing the rate of substance use in Shelby County. Since its inception, Compact has served as a resource for families, schools, and students. Today, Compact primarily focuses on supporting juveniles that are at a high risk for substance use or may already be using substances. Compact provides family intervention, community education, and connection to resources. Compact works to serve as an ally for individuals and families, and to empower and guide them in the right direction to be healthy and successful.

Janae Pinson serves as the Community Resource Coordinator. She is a former educator, who is passionate about identifying the needs of the community and educating the community to prevent substance use. Adam Schniper has been with Compact since it was established, and he works to implement prevention initiatives within the City of Pelham and Pelham City Schools. Adam is passionate about preventing the onset of substance use in adolescents, and supporting individuals and families to seek support and recovery.

To learn more or to contact Compact visit https://www.compact2020.com/
Janae Pinson: jpinson@shelbyda.com
Adam Schniper: aschniper@shelbyda.com

#addiction #prevention #substanceabuse

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Hang on to Hope: A Conversation with Bronwyn McInturff

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Join us as Bronwyn McInturff, an APC board member and a social worker with nearly 25 years of experience working in the substance use field, discusses stigma, the evolution of substance use treatment, and treatment limitations due to funding.

Bronwyn also tells us about how she was introduced to the mental health field by her mother, who is also a helping professional. She discusses what it was like working with clients at UAB Medicine’s Addiction Recovery Program and being inspired by watching people transform their lives from being in active addiction to thriving in recovery. Although Bronwyn formally retired in 2023, she could not stay away from her passion for too long. She now works part-time providing individual counseling services to clients.

To contact or learn more about UAB Medicine’s Addiction Recovery Program, call 205-975-8524 or visit their website.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

INFOCUS: A Conversation with Emily Herring

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 19:00:00 -0600

Join us for a conversation with Emily Herring, LICSW, as she discusses the work of Fairfield High School’s INFOCUS chapter and the positive impact she is having on the lives of her students!

Since 2020, Emily Herring, or Ms. Emily as she is commonly known by her students and APC staff, has worked with Fairfield City Schools to improve the mental health and wellbeing of her students. Ms. Emily is the Mental Health Coordinator for Fairfield City Schools and the facilitator for the INFOCUS chapter at Fairfield High School. Ms. Emily grew up in Austin, Texas, and moved to Alabama to attend Auburn University. While at Auburn, she immediately fell in love with the social work profession. Through her work, Ms. Emily grew to love working with under-resourced populations to help improve their lives and wellbeing. In 2023, Ms. Emily was awarded the Difference Maker award, which was presented by the FOCUS Program, for her wonderful work with the students at Fairfield High School. Ms. Emily and the Fairfield High School INFOCUS group have worked to implement mental health resource fairs and other initiatives in their school and the neighboring middle school. In 2023, their hard work was featured in a story by WBRC.

INFOCUS groups are student led and adult guided groups within high schools, which focus on implementing positive initiatives on mental health and other catalyst issues that often lead to substance use in their school and community. INFOCUS aims to support student leaders, who have a lasting, positive influence on their peers and in their environment.

To learn more about INFOCUS: https://apcbham.org/who-we-are/how-we-help/students-2/
To learn more about the INFOCUS group’s impact: https://www.wbrc.com/video/2023/05/08/fairfield-city-schools-focusing-students-mental-health/

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Supporting Families: A Conversation with Dave Urech

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 18:00:00 -0600

Join us as Dave Urech tells us about what it is like being a parent of a child with a substance use disorder and his passion for working with families with a similar experience.

Dave Urech, a Michigan native, moved to Alabama about a decade ago, and he and his wife, Laura, became engaged in a local support group for parents of a child with a substance use disorder. Both Dave and his wife had been impacted by their son’s substance use disorder and were seeking additional support. Soon, Dave and his wife began leading a family support group, which is designed to support parents and family members of a loved one with a substance use disorder through education and connection.

Dave’s group meets at Asbury Church (Birmingham, Alabama) on Monday evenings from 6:30 to 8:00 PM. In addition to his group, APC’s Executive Director, Carie, and her husband, Art, have a family support group that meets at the Moore Institute on Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 8:00 PM. To learn more about the groups, contact Dave (717-341-1918) or Art (205-616-8867).

More information can be found on APC’s website: https://apcbham.org/who-we-are/how-we-help/family-members-support/

#addiction #prevention #family

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

The Cost of Addiction: A Conversation with Dr. John Dantzler

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Join us as Dr. John Dantzler discusses how he started his career in educational research and program evaluation, but found his way into the field of substance use. Dr. Dantzler discusses the importance of affordable and effective substance use treatment options for everyone.

Dr. John Dantzler is a professor within UAB’s Department of Psychiatry, the Vice Chair of Substance Abuse Programs at UAB, and the Executive Director of UAB Beacon Recovery and UAB’s Community Justice programs. In addition to his many other roles, Dr. Dantzler serves on APC’s Executive Board. Thanks to his multiple decades of work in the substance use field, Dr. Dantzler has a unique view of how treatment has changed over the years. One of the changes that has occurred is how people view substance use, and how they have started supporting the Brain Disease Model of Addiction. While stigma still exists, the shift to viewing addiction as a disease has been pivotal to helping those with substance use disorders obtain treatment services.

While stigma has started to decrease in recent years, barriers to treatment still exist. One of the main barriers is funding. UAB Beacon is a successful treatment program that works to eliminate that barrier. UAB Beacon Recovery is an accessible treatment option for those in Central Alabama. UAB Beacon Recovery operates on a sliding scale, which bases the cost of treatment based on the client’s income. UAB Beacon Recovery also operates a clinic, known as their Bridge Clinic, which allows patients to see a physician, case manager, and receive an ASAM assessment. The clinic was established to bridge the gaps for those seeking treatment, and reduce the difficulty of navigating the healthcare system to obtain treatment services.

Link to UAB Beacon: https://www.uabmedicine.org/specialties/beacon-recovery-program/

Link to UAB’s Community Justice programs: https://www.uab.edu/medicine/substanceabuse/about

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Clearlee: A Conversation with Liz Read

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0600

Join us as Liz Read discusses finding out about her loved one’s substance use disorder, and how this discovery and led to her creating Clearlee, an app that provides dignified drug testing.

Liz Read, a native of Birmingham, Alabama, had her world turned upside down when she discovered that a loved one was suffering from a substance use disorder. This discovery impacted her whole family. During the time of reestablishing the a foundation to move forward with their lives, Liz’ family member was required to complete drug tests. Liz noted the obstacles and complexity of the drug testing process. This observation sparked her interest in improving the process. In November 2020, Liz presented her concept at Alabama Launchpad’s competition, and much to her surprise, she was the winner of the Concept Stage.

Clearlee is an app that provides families and organizations with empowering accountability through dignified drug testing. Clearlee provides the person being tested with the necessary testing supplies and detailed instructions, and the person requesting the test receives reliable, real-time information. In addition to working with individual families, Clearlee works with sober living facilities, treatment centers, and employers to provide accountability testing to their clients.

You can contact Liz at lread@clearlee.com, and for general questions about Clearlee you can contact at hello@clearlee.com.

https://clearlee.com

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Team T.J.: A Conversation with Taylin McCarver

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0600

Join us as Taylin McCarver discusses what it was like to lose a sibling to a substance use disorder, and how Taylin and her family have used that experience to advocate for people with substance use disorders.

In this episode, Taylin discusses the years leading up to her brother’s death due to substance use. Taylin discusses what it was like observe her brother throughout his battle with a substance use disorder, which started in his teenage years, and how his substance use disorder impacted their entire family. She tells us about the strain that her brother’s substance use put on their family, and how they had to make changes to how they supported him.

Taylin’s and her family are passionate advocates for recovery and supporting people with substance use disorders. For several years, they have supported APC through the End Addiction Bham (EAB) walk, formerly End Heroin Bham. Taylin and her family formed Team T.J., which is a group comprised of friends and family that participate in End Addiction Bham to remember T.J. Each year, Team T.J. sells t-shirts, and they donate the proceeds to APC to support substance use prevention initiatives in Central Alabama.

In addition to being a powerful voice for Team T.J., Taylin is an Academic Advisor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Taylin discusses the importance of supporting her students as a whole and not just academically.

https://www.wbrc.com/news/fentanyl/

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

The Power of Community: A Conversation with Jared Murray

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0600

Join us as Jared Murray, a person in long-term recovery and an Admissions Specialist for Momentum Recovery, tells us his story about using substances as a young adult and his pathway to recovery.

Jared Murray discusses how he first experimented with alcohol and marijuana before starting the 8th grade. While in high school, he eventually started using opioids, benzodiazepines, and cocaine. Despite several negative consequences of his substance use, Jared continued to use substances through college until he eventually went to treatment. After facing legal and academic consequences, Jared re-enrolled at The University of Alabama, and he went on to graduate from UA and help establish UA’s Collegiate Recovery Community. Jared tells us about the role that being connected to others has played in his ability to be successful in his recovery. In addition to discussing his experience with substance use and recovery, Jared tells us about the role of his parents and how they were impacted by his substance use.

Today, Jared is a few months shy of being 13 years sober and works as an admissions specialist for Momentum Recovery, an addiction treatment program for young adults between the ages of 18 and 35. Momentum Recovery is located in Wilmington, North Carolina, and is split into two programs, The Creek (men’s program) and The Cove (women’s program) and incorporates Adventure Based Therapy, which is highly effective with young adults. Jared can be contacted at 205-600-4312 and jared@momentumrecovery.com.

https://www.momentumrecovery.com/

https://cris.sa.ua.edu/

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Close to Home: A Conversation with Morgan Grace

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 20:00:00 -0600

Join us as Morgan Grace, the Resource Coordinator for APC, tells us about how she got involved with APC and her interest in prevention and harm reduction.

In 2021, Morgan Grace started at APC as an intern. She ended up at APC after her plan of studying and interning abroad was halted by the pandemic. Morgan quickly discovered her interest in harm reduction and prevention. Morgan discusses how growing up in a rural community that has been impacted by substance use has influenced her interest in prevention. In addition to being APC’s resource coordinator, Morgan is also the advisor for APC’s INFOCUS group at Fairfield High School. Morgan’s work with the students at Fairfield High School is one of her proudest accomplishments.

Check out WBRC’s video on Fairfield High School’s INFOCUS Group:
https://www.wbrc.com/video/2023/05/08/fairfield-city-schools-focusing-students-mental-health/

#addiction #prevention #recovery

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

One Person at a Time: A Conversation with Shawn Windham

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0600

Join us as Shawn Windham, a Prevention Specialist with APC, tells us about what brought him to Alabama, his background in law enforcement, and his passion for prevention.

Shawn Windham is retired police officer from Vaccaville, California, who moved to Alabama and started working on prevention efforts in rural areas, Blount County and St. Clair County, Alabama. Shawn discusses his prevention work in these counties, adjusting to life in Alabama, and how his interest in prevention in both substance use and other areas.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Do Something Different: A Conversation with Roger Patteson

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Join us as Roger Patteson, an Interventionist with Clear Path Interventions, and a person in long term recovery, shares his story with us. Roger also discusses what it is like to work with and support families with a loved one with a substance use disorder.

Roger discusses how a lack of stability impacted his early childhood development, world view, and how he handled challenges. Roger started drinking alcohol at age 13, and by age 15, he was concerned about the way he was drinking excessively.

Today, he has been sober for 22 years, and he is working to empower families to address their family member’s substance use and family dysfunction. Roger discusses spending hours with families, who have lost their ability to function, and working to improve the whole family’s quality of life. Roger talks about the importance of reframing an intervention as an opportunity to be better instead of a punishment and reminding the loved one that they “have got off track,” but can get back on track.

Clear Path Interventions works with families to assess what is needed to assist families and a loved with a substance use disorder. Clear Path Interventions also provides coaching for families to support their loved one throughout treatment and recovery. They also teach people how to be a sober companion to their loved one. Clear Path Interventions encourages families to not give up on their loved one. “If they’re breathing, there is still hope.”

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Building Connection: A Conversation with Dr. Mark Wilson

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Join us as Dr. Mark Wilson, the immediate past Health Officer of the Jefferson County Department of Health, discusses the formation of the Recovery Resource Center, the loss of his daughter, and what life will look like after retiring from the Jefferson County Department of Health.

Dr. Wilson discusses collaborating with the Addiction Prevention Coalition and other organizations to identify needs for those with substance use disorders. This collaboration led to the formation of the Recovery Resource Center (RRC), which is now a program of the Crisis Center. The RRC was established in the Fall of 2017 as a response to the increasing opioid-related deaths occurring in Jefferson County, and the need to have a central resource to help people struggling with substance use to navigate treatment and recovery.

Dr. Wilson discusses what it was like to serve in a public health role during the pandemic. He also discusses the death of his daughter, Laura, who experienced mental health challenges and died by suicide in December 2022. Dr. Wilson talks about his decision to retire, what retirement will look like for him, and his determination to stay connected to public health and patient care.

www.recoveryresourcejeffco.com/
www.crisiscenterbham.org/recovery-resource-center/

Link to podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GOE6pcZH9uw

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Creating Authentic Connection: A Conversation with Joel Bennett

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Dr. Joel Bennett is the President of Organizational Wellness and Learning Systems (OWLS), an organization that focuses on promoting organizational health and employee wellness in the workplace.

Dr. Joel Bennett discusses what it was like to grow up in a home with a parent with an alcohol use disorder, and another parent with a process addiction. He also discusses how seeing a relationship go awry sparked his fascination in the how people form and maintain relationships and the importance of connection.

Dr. Joel Bennett has always been fascinated by how one’s work impacts one’s identity, how work can be a powerful place for people to be healthy, and a strong protective factor. Through OWLS, he works with organizations on how to improve the wellness and mental well-being of employees on all levels. In addition to serving as the President of OWLS, Dr. Bennett is also the primary developer of “Team Awareness” and “Team Resilience,” evidence-based programs that have been recognized by the United States Department of Health as effective in reducing employee behavioral risks.

Link to OWLS: https://organizationalwellness.com/

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Second Chances: A Conversation with Tim Cross

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Join us for a conversation with Tim Cross, APC Board Member and the Co-Founder and CEO of Expedited Transport Agency, a business that is at the forefront of recovery friendly workplaces.

In this episode, Tim will discuss how his life was impacted by his substance use and how he found recovery. Tim also discusses how Expedited Transport Agency (ETA) has become a model organization when it comes to hiring those in recovery and holistically supporting their employees. 62% of ETA’s current employees are currently in recovery. Tim tells us about how a recovery friendly workplace has allowed those in recovery to instant accessibility to others in recovery, how ETA has supported employees through relapses, and the success stories of those, who are in recovery and thriving. As Tim explains, “sober addicts make great employees."

We invite you to join us at APC's 2nd Annual Alabama Workplace Evolution One Day Conference: Supporting Mentally Healthy Work Environments. The conference will be held on Thursday, October 5, 2023 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM Check out apcbham.org/events to register.

For more information on Tim Cross, check out the link listed below and feel free to reach out to him at: tim@eta-agency.us

https://businessalabama.com/expedited-transport-focuses-on-both-shipping-and-living/

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

She Recovers: A Conversation with Suzanne Muir

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Join us as Suzanne Muir, the Associate Director for UAB Medicine’s Department of Psychiatry and Neurobiology, discusses how she became interested in working with people with substance use disorders and her work with the Comprehensive Addiction in Pregnancy Program.

UAB Medicine’s Comprehensive Addiction in Pregnancy Program (CAPP) aims to connect women to treatment and the recovery community throughout all stages of their pregnancy and beyond by providing integrated obstetric care, medications for opioid use disorder, substance use treatment, peer recovery support and case management. In recent years, CAPP has expanded to serve women in Walker County, Alabama, which is an area that has been heavily impacted by the opioid epidemic. In Walker County, CAPP partners with the Healing Network and the Recovery Resource Center to coordinate a program, She Recovers. She Recovers utilizes Helping Women Recover, which is an evidence-based program, which addresses trauma and the specific needs and concerns for women in and seeking recovery.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Knowledge is Power: A Conversation with Patty Sykstus

Sun, 13 Aug 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Join us as Patty Sykstus, the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Not One More Alabama, shares her experience as a mom of a child with a substance use disorder, and discusses the great work Not One More Alabama is great doing in North Alabama.

Patty discusses her experience with having a son with a substance use disorder, how his substance use disorder impacted their entire family, and how valuable being educated about substance use and recovery is. Patty talks about the importance of having parents on the same page when it comes to addressing substance use with their child. Patty discusses the work that Not One More Alabama (NOMA), a non-profit located in Huntsville, Alabama, does that focuses on educating people about substance use, connecting people in recovery, and supporting families that have been impacted by substance use. She also discusses the development of a meeting place for the recovery community, which is currently under construction and projected to open in 2024.

www.notonemorealabama.org
mail@notonemorealabama.org

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Living Proof: A Conversation with Colin Harris

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Join us as Colin Harris, the Founder and Managing Director of the Birmingham Recovery Center, discusses his journey through recovery and how he was inspired to open a substance use treatment center, which provides an individualized, holistic approach to each client to prepare them for a successful recovery.

Colin Harris is a native of Montgomery, Alabama, and like many, he started using substances as teen. His use continued through college and after. After several experiences with substance use treatment, Colin was able to thrive in his recovery and was inspired to open a substance use treatment center, which provides clients with high-quality, holistic care.

The Birmingham Recovery Center (BRC) opened in July 2021, and BRC has seen an overwhelming demand for services. Currently, BRC is expanding to provide mental health services. Longleaf Wellness Birmingham, an IOP and PHP mental health wellness center, is projected to open in Spring 2024, right next door to BRC. In addition to the new mental health wellness center, BRC is also building two similar substance use treatment centers. The new Longleaf Recovery Centers, will provide substance use treatment services to people in Huntsville and Mobile.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

How Did You Get Here: A Conversation with Ashley Loftis

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Join us as Ashley Loftis discusses working at APC on Project LEAP, and how growing up in a small town that was impacted by substance use ignited her passion for working with people with substance use disorders.

Ashley is the Prevention Navigator for Project LEAP, a five-year SAMHSA grant that works with adolescents at risk of contracting HIV through their substance use. She also coordinates the continuing education initiatives for APC.

Ashley is a native of Western North Carolina, who moved to Alabama to attend The University of Alabama. Ashley discusses what it was like growing up in an area that was significantly impacted by opioid and methamphetamine use. She also discusses her passion for working with youth, who are involved in the criminal justice system, and her love for learning. During her time at UA, she fell in love with Alabama, and decided to stay. She obtained her MA in Counselor Education from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and she is now working on her PhD through the University of Holy Cross in New Orleans. Ashley loves serving her community. She is a member of the Junior League of Birmingham, and serves on the junior board for the Fellowship House and the Committee of 25 for Girls, Inc.

Learn more about Project LEAP: https://apcbham.org/find-help/project-leap/
Learn more about APC’s continuing education opportunities: https://apcbham.org/who-we-are/how-we-help/apc-trainings/

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Asking the Questions: A Conversation with Dr. Rebekah Savage

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Join us as Dr. Rebekah Savage discusses treating adolescents with substance use disorders, and how she became interested in treating substance use disorders.

Dr. Rebekah Savage is a board-certified pediatrician who specializes in treating adolescents with substance use disorders and eating disorders. She also works with adolescents who are currently incarcerated.

Dr. Savage walks us through how a family member’s experience with a substance use disorder and mental health challenges impacted her, and sparked her interest in treating substance use disorders. She also discusses the importance of pediatricians assessing for substance use disorders or potentially problematic substance use in adolescent patients. She provides some helpful tips for pediatricians and parents when it comes to discussing and asking about substance use with adolescents.

Link to Adolescent Clinic: https://www.childrensal.org/services/adolescent-health-center/clinics

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Restoring Connection: A Conversation with Randy Hall

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Join us as Randy Hall, the President of Recovery Dharma Global, discusses how Buddhist practices and principles helped him reconnect with himself and others after more than two decades of suffering from the isolation of addiction.

Randy talks about how his substance use disorder developed while he was a high-achieving student and high-functioning professional. He discusses how he was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome and how that medical crisis altered his life in a surprisingly positive way. Randy also reveals how his recovery journey led him to become the President of Recovery Dharma Global, a peer-led community of over 500 recovery meetings that use Buddhist-inspired practices to recover from addictions of all kinds. Finally, Randy relates how a holistic approach to recovery has helped him connect with himself and others and cultivate a beautiful life free from addiction.

Connect with Randy Hall by emailing him at randall@recoverydharma.org

To learn more about Recovery Dharma visit https://recoverydharma.org/

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Revive: A Conversation with Kyle Berman

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Join us as Kyle Berman shares with us his idea for a device that would notify someone of a suspected overdose, and how his experience of losing many friends to overdoses has impacted his passion to save lives.

Kyle Berman, a person in long-term recovery, tells us about the development of an idea that was inspired after the death of one of his friends. Kyle talks about how losing his younger sister to an overdose and a total of 13 friends to overdoses in 2022 encouraged him create a device that would track vital signs to determine if someone is having an overdose and notify a contact to check on the person. Kyle also discusses moments in his childhood and adolescent years that were pivotal and impacted his substance use and led him to recovery.

Kyle discusses the importance of having life-saving Narcan available. If you or someone you may know needs Narcan, then go to the Jefferson County Department of Health's website to complete the Narcan training and request a Narcan kit. Narcan kits can be mailed throughout the State of Alabama.

For additional information on Revive or to get in contact with Kyle, please contact reviversllc@gmail.com

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

What It's Like to be Alive: A Conversation with Anne Markham Bailey

Thu, 25 May 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Join us as Anne Markham Bailey discusses how being connected to your mind and body can be life changing . Anne also discusses awareness and mindfulness activities, such as, Forest Bathing, medication, yoga.

Anne Markham Bailey is a writer, poet, and an awareness educator. She is also certified yoga instructor. She studied East Asian Studies, and studied abroad in China, which changed her perspective on the importance of connection and becoming aware of your mind and body. Anne teaches her course and workshop participants mindfulness and awareness practices to allow them to become more connected with their mind and body. She also leads Forest Bathing workshops, which is a process that allows participants to become more deeply connected to the earth.

Link to Anne’s site: https://www.annemarkhambailey.com/

Link to Anne’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annemarkhambailey/?hl=en

Link to The Practice of Being: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-practice-of-being-anne-markham-bailey/17461829?ean=9781733013895

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Don’t Give Up on Them: A Conversation with Dr. Stephen Taylor

Thu, 11 May 2023 10:00:00 -0500

Join us for a conversation with Dr. Stephen Taylor. Dr. Taylor shares with us his experience growing up in Brooklyn, New York, and how growing up there impacted his decision to become a doctor.

Dr. Taylor is the Medical Director of the Player Assistance and Anti-Drug Program for the National Basketball Association and the National Basketball Players Association. He is also the Chief Medical Officer for Pathway Healthcare’s Division of Behavioral Health. Dr. Taylor is a graduate of the Howard University College of Medicine, and he holds an MPH from the Harvard School of Public Health. Dr. Taylor went on to complete a “triple-board” residency at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in pediatrics, general psychiatry and child/adolescent psychiatry. He also completed a fellowship in alcoholism and drug abuse treatment at New York University School of Medicine/Bellevue Hospital Center. Dr. Taylor serves on several boards, including, the Board of Directors for the American Society of Addiction Medicine and the Drug Testing Advisory Board for SAMHSA. He also serves on the board for the Addiction Prevention Coalition.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Facing Fear: A Conversation with Wade Meadows

Mon, 01 May 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Join us as Wade Meadows walks us through his journey of addiction and recovery, and how his experience led him to his current career.

Wade Meadows has worked in the field of addiction treatment since 2016. He currently works as a Business Development Representative for Florida Springs Wellness and Recovery Center. Wade discusses how several internal fears developed at a young age and impacted multiple aspects of his life. Wade discusses growing up in a rural community, how his addiction to opioids developed, and how he overcame his fears to be able to serve others in the field of addiction treatment.

Florida Springs Wellness and Recovery Center is a drug and alcohol treatment center located in Panama City, Florida. Florida Springs offers services including, detox, residential treatment, and outpatient treatment, to clients in the Florida panhandle and surrounding areas. Link for Florida Springs: https://www.flasprings.com/

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Eradicating Stigma: A Conversation with Abi Famurewa

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Join us as Abi Famurewa, the epidemiologist for the Addiction Prevention Coalition, discusses growing up in Nigeria, how substance use impacted her family, and how she found her way to APC.

Abi primarily works on a five year SAMHSA grant, SPF-PFS, which focuses on providing education and prevention services in the City of Birmingham. Abi is originally from Nigeria, but moved to the United States to attend Texas A&M to obtain her Master’s in Public Health with a special interest in infectious diseases. During her time at Texas A&M, her family was impacted by her sister’s opioid use. This came as a surprise to her whole family. Abi acted as the educator for her family to provide them with education and support to help her sister through treatment and recovery. This experience sparked Abi’s interest in substance use, and started her journey as an advocate for those with substance use disorders and mental health challenges.

Abi is also a Youth Mental Health First Aid instructor. Visit apcbham.org to learn more about Mental Health First Aid and request a training.

#addiction #nigeria #epidemiology

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Welcoming the Outsider: A Conversation with Drew Callner

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Join us as Drew Callner takes us through his years of active addiction, moving to Alabama, and finally finding a community where he no longer felt like an outsider.

Drew Callner is an award-winning filmmaker, who moved to Alabama from his hometown, Seattle, Washington. Drew discusses what his early substance use looked like as a teenager. Then, Drew walks us through the progression of his substance use disorder, and how he found the connection he had been missing through recovery support groups, like AA and HA.

Drew Callner is the owner of Callner Creates, a full-scale video production business in Birmingham, Alabama. Drew is known for directing Recovering Hope (2017), a documentary that tells the story of six different people and how the opioid epidemic and heroin addiction have impacted their life.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Mental Health Matters: A Conversation with Eve Gunn

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Ms. Eve Gunn is a Mental Health Coordinator with Tarrant City Schools. Ms. Gunn discusses how the social, health, and racial disparities impact her high school students.

Ms. Gunn, who never intended to become a social worker and work in a school setting, shares with us about how she found her way into this career path. She discusses her advocacy for her students, and the passion she has for helping them reach their full potential.

Tarrant City Schools is a school district located in Tarrant, Alabama, which is just outside of downtown Birmingham. The Addiction Prevention Coalition works closely with the teachers and administrators of Tarrant City Schools to provide Mental Health First Aid, general substance use prevention education, and facilitate an INFOCUS group.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Take Care of Each Other: A Conversation with Dr. Burel Goodin

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0600

Join us as UAB’s Dr. Burel Goodin discusses how his experience watching football players recover from injuries sparked his interest in pain, and how he started researching the many factor that impact someone’s experience with pain and recovery. Dr. Goodin discusses his research as it relates to how health disparities and health inequities impact how people feel and manage pain.

Dr. Goodin also talks about UAB’s Center for Addiction and Pain Prevention and Intervention, an organization that is composed by scientists, physicians, and people in the community that are interested in discovering effective treatments and alleviating the suffering caused by addiction and pain.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Celebrating Success: A Conversation with the Honorable Shanta Owens

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0600

The Honorable Shanta Owens is a Circuit Court judge for the 10th Judicial Circuit of Alabama. She previously presided over the Jefferson County Drug Court program. Judge Owens tells us about her journey from Selma, Alabama to her experience as a drug court judge.

Judge Owens shares with us how she became the Chairperson of the Addiction Prevention Coalition’s Executive Board. She also shares with us the lasting impact that presiding over the Jefferson County Drug Court program has left on her and her career. Judge Owens discusses what it was like to see people at their worst and watch them transform into their best.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Finding Purpose: A Conversation with John Bayles

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0600

John Bayles is the Program Director for the Recovery Resource Center, and he is in long-term recovery. John shares his story about finding purpose in his life, how his recovery overlaps with his work, and the important role of certified peer support specialist in all aspects of treatment and recovery.

John also shares about his work at the Recovery Resource Center. The Recovery Resource Center is a program provided through the Crisis Center. The Recovery Resource Center was established in 2017 as a response to rising overdose numbers in Jefferson County, Alabama. Today, the Recovery Resource Center provides ASAM assessments, linkage to resources, and connection for those through all steps of their treatment and recovery.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Tell Me Your Story: A Conversation with Dr. Ellen Eaton

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0600

Join us as Dr. Ellen Eaton, an infectious disease physician with UAB Medicine, discusses her work with people with substance use disorders, stigma in medicine, and the future of harm reduction.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Selfish to Servant-hearted: Tyler Currier’s Story of Redemption

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0600

Today’s conversation is with Tyler Currier, APC Board Member and sales professional for Truckstop.com.

Addiction follows a similar plot line for everyone in its destructive path. Without help, addiction leads to the same ending for all. Recovery, on the other hand, is beautifully unpredictable. Beyond offering a new lease on life, recovery provides opportunities for redemption, rebirth, and purpose.

Tyler’s story perfectly captures this contrast. After years of suffering from the disease of addiction with no end in sight, Tyler entered recovery and felt a spiritual calling to turn his suffering into gold by mentoring those who sought a way out. Join us as we hear Tyler share his remarkable story of hope and service!

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Trails of Recovery: A Conversation with Raven Johnson

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0600

Today’s conversation is with Raven Johnson, the Director of Student Initiatives at APC. Raven has taken her experiences with substance use as a young adult, and used these experiences to drive her work in the community, especially with students. Join us as Raven takes us through her journey of recovery that has fueled her passionate work at APC.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Hidden Pain: A Conversation with Lauren Sisler

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0600

Today's conversation is with Lauren Sisler, ESPN Sports Broadcaster and APC Board Member.

People are often able to hide the pain they are in and how they choose to manage that pain. Even members of the same household might be fooled for years. Such was the dynamic in Lauren's family. While away at college as a freshman, Lauren is faced with the most devastating news a child could receive.

Join us as Lauren takes us on her journey that has led to uncovering those painful secrets but also inspired her to help other families break through the stigma and see the hope in their full stories.

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Trailer

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0600

For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!

https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/

https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition