エピソード

  • Season 2 Finale: Panel on Overdose Deaths- Progress and Challenges

    Season 2 Finale: Panel on Overdose Deaths- Progress and Challenges
    2025/09/01
    In the season two finale of Beyond Substance, hosts Dean Babcock and Jodi Miller bring together a panel of leaders working across Indiana to address the opioid epidemic. Joining the conversation are Jodi Miller (peer recovery leader and co-host), Sarah Grubb (Forensic Epidemiologist, Marion County Public Health Department), Dr. Eric Yazel (ER Physician and Indiana EMS Medical Director), and Justin Phillips (Founder of Overdose Lifeline). Together, they reflect on the progress made in reducing overdose deaths, examine data-driven insights and community initiatives, and highlight the ongoing challenges that demand attention. This roundtable brings multiple perspectives—clinical, public health, advocacy, and lived experience—into a collective call for continued collaboration, innovation, and hope.

    Takeaways
    • Naloxone access saves lives: Large-scale distribution and low-barrier access remain critical.
    • Bridge programs matter: Linking ER patients to long-term care improves outcomes and prevents relapse.
    • Data drives change: Real-time overdose surveillance helps communities respond quickly and effectively.
    • Peer support builds hope: Recovery coaches create essential trust and reduce stigma.
    • Equity is essential: Addressing racial and demographic disparities must remain a priority.

    Episode Hashtags
    #BeyondSubstance #OpioidEpidemic #RecoveryIsPossible #NaloxoneSavesLives #HarmReduction #SubstanceUseRecovery #EndOverdose #PeerRecovery #IndianaRecovery #CommunityHealth #DataDrivenSolutions #MAT #BridgeProgram #PublicHealth #Epidemiology #OverdoseLifeline #ShawnPNeal #AdvoCast #StigmaFree #HopeAndRecovery

    Podcast Information:
    • Hosted by: Dean Babcock & Jodi Miller
    • Interview Segment Producer: Angela Shamblin
    • Personal Story Producer: Shawn P Neal
    • Executive Producer: Shawn P Neal
    • Mixed at: AvoCast Studio236
    続きを読む 一部表示
    59 分
  • Finding Recovery in Community Corrections

    Finding Recovery in Community Corrections
    2025/08/06
    In this powerful episode of Beyond Substance, hosts Jodi Miller and Dean Babcock explore recovery, redemption, and the systems that support both. Jodi sits down with Megan Pino, a graduate of the Hamilton County Drug Court Program, who shares her deeply personal journey through addiction, motherhood, and healing. Dean interviews Morgan Walker, Executive Director of Hancock County Community Corrections, who offers a systems-level look at how evidence-based practices and collaborative support structures are transforming the criminal justice landscape. Together, their stories reflect the heart of what real recovery looks like—accountability, compassion, and hope.

    Segment 1: Professional Interview
    Dean speaks with Morgan Walker, Executive Director of Hancock County Community Corrections, to discuss the evolving role of community corrections within the justice system. Morgan emphasizes a shift from compliance-focused models to evidence-based approaches that prioritize client outcomes and dignity. She explains how her agency integrates partnerships with recovery programs, case managers, and the courts to create holistic support systems for individuals with substance use disorders. Morgan also reflects on how the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped service delivery and revealed the need for flexible, human-centered strategies. Her insights provide a critical lens into how justice-involved individuals can be empowered through meaningful engagement, supportive accountability, and compassionate systems.

    Segment 2: Personal Story
    Megan Pino opens up to Jodi Miller about her struggle with alcohol use, the pain of repeated legal consequences, and the toll it took on her children and sense of self. After her fourth DUI, Megan reached a breaking point—and what followed was a life-changing journey through the Hamilton County Drug Court and Community Corrections programs. Through tears, gratitude, and fierce honesty, Megan shares how accountability, structure, and support helped her reclaim her identity. She reflects on rebuilding trust with her children, rediscovering her worth, and how gratitude became a powerful tool in her ongoing recovery. Megan’s story reminds us that people are not defined by their lowest moments—and that recovery is possible with the right support system.


    Takeaways
    • Community corrections is shifting toward evidence-based, compassionate support strategies.
    • Recovery journeys often begin with accountability—and are sustained through connection.
    • Drug courts can serve as life-saving interventions when integrated with wraparound services.
    • Systems that honor dignity can transform justice-involved lives.
    • Personal healing often involves rebuilding relationships and rediscovering self-worth.


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


    Episode Hashtags
    #BeyondSubstance #ShawnPNeal #AdvoCast #RecoveryIsPossible #CommunityCorrections #DrugCourt #HarmReduction #AccountabilityInRecovery #TraumaInformedCare #EvidenceBasedPractice #AddictionRecovery #JusticeReform #WomenInRecovery #SupportNotStigma #PeerSupportMatters #HealingJourneys #JodiMiller #DeanBabcock #CriminalJusticeSupport #RedemptionStories
    続きを読む 一部表示
    47 分
  • Perspectives on Stigma in Medical Care

    Perspectives on Stigma in Medical Care
    2025/07/01
    In this powerful episode, hosts Dean Babcock and Jodi Miller explore stigma from two deeply connected vantage points: the clinical world of healthcare and the lived reality of addiction and recovery. Dr. Christopher Suelzer, a retired internal medicine physician with decades of experience treating veterans, shares his perspective on how stigma within the medical community affects patient care and trust. Then, we meet Gloria Haynes, a woman in long-term recovery whose journey from addiction to becoming a respected peer recovery coach reveals the transformative power of support and self-worth. Together, their insights challenge us to dismantle bias and see the humanity behind the diagnosis.

    Segment 1: Professional Interview Summary
    Dr. Christopher Suelzer, a primary care physician and long-time advocate for veterans and people with substance use disorders, offers a candid look into the role healthcare providers play in perpetuating or alleviating stigma. He describes how stigmatizing assumptions—often subconscious—can erode trust, reduce treatment efficacy, and undermine patient autonomy. Drawing from real-life examples, he emphasizes that providers must challenge ingrained biases, receive better training, and prioritize compassion alongside clinical skill. Dr. Suelzer also explores the systemic nature of stigma, how language and charting practices reinforce it, and the urgent need for exposure to recovery narratives in medical education.

    Segment 2: Personal Story Summary
    Jodi Miller sits down with Gloria Haynes, a certified peer recovery coach and perinatal community health worker whose recovery journey began in a Cook County jail. Gloria recounts her descent from a fast-paced life in Chicago into addiction, homelessness, and incarceration. Through court-ordered treatment and a critical moment of surrender, she found her way into long-term recovery. Gloria’s story highlights the impact of supportive judges, the healing power of community, and the strength that comes from lived experience. Today, she works with pregnant and postpartum women, physicians, and recovery programs, using her voice to inspire connection, empathy, and change.

    Takeaways
    • Stigma in healthcare can lead to delayed treatment, inadequate care, and broken trust between providers and patients.
    • Recovery is not just possible—it’s powerful. Seeing people thrive in recovery changes how professionals understand substance use.
    • Self-stigma is real, but connection, community, and purpose can break through shame and transform lives.
    • Person-first, non-stigmatizing language matters. It shapes how people are perceived—and how they perceive themselves.
    • Both systemic change and individual empathy are needed to truly support recovery in medical and community settings.


    Podcast Information
    • Hosted by: Dean Babcock and Jodi Miller
    • Interview Segment Producer: Angela Shamblin
    • Personal Story Producer: Shawn P Neal
    • Executive Producer: Shawn P Neal
    • Mixed at: AdvoCast Studio236
    Episode Hashtags
    #BeyondSubstance #RecoveryIsPossible #AddictionRecovery #StigmaFreeHealthcare #PeerRecovery #SubstanceUseDisorder #VeteransRecovery #DrChrisSuelzer #GloriaHaynes #JodiMiller #DeanBabcock #NaloxoneSavesLives #MATWorks #PersonFirstLanguage #EmpathyInMedicine #HealthcareBias #CHAMPIndiana #WeCare #ShawnPNeal #AdvoCast
    続きを読む 一部表示
    59 分
  • S2E9 Finding Recovery In Jail

    S2E9 Finding Recovery In Jail
    2025/06/01
    In this episode of Beyond Substance, hosts Dean Babcock and Jodi Miller explore how the criminal justice system—particularly county jails—can be a surprising gateway to recovery. Through conversations with Kelly Gunn, Director of Jail Programs in Hamilton County, and Jennifer Bella, a peer recovery coach who found hope behind bars, this episode examines the transformation possible when dignity, support, and structured programs are prioritized. Together, their stories highlight the intersection of incarceration, trauma, and recovery—and the systems working to bridge the gap between punishment and healing.

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

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

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

    Episode Hashtags
    #BeyondSubstance #RecoveryBehindBars #LaunchHope #PeerSupport #SubstanceUseRecovery #HarmReduction #ReentryPrograms #TOWERProgram #AddictionRecoveryStories #CriminalJusticeReform #PublicHealthInJails #IndianaRecovery #NaloxoneSavesLives #MATPrograms #StigmaFreeRecovery #RefuelWellness #JenniferBella #ShawnPNeal #AdvoCast #CommunityHealing
    続きを読む 一部表示
    48 分
  • Knowledge is Power

    Knowledge is Power
    2025/05/01
    In this episode of Beyond Substance, hosts Dean Babcock and Jodi Miller explore the critical intersection of research, personal experience, and community support in addressing substance use and recovery. They engage with experts Dr. Brad Ray and Dr. Katrina "Kat" Thomas, who share insights on drug trends, the impact of overdose data, and the importance of empathy and education in combating stigma. The conversation emphasizes the need for harm reduction strategies, the role of naloxone, and the power of personal stories in fostering hope and resilience within communities.

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

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

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

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

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

    #BeyondSubstance #SubstanceUseRecovery #HarmReduction #OpioidCrisis #NaloxoneSavesLives #FentanylAwareness #AddictionRecoveryStories #TraumaInformedCare #DrugPolicyReform #MentalHealthMatters #RecoveryIsPossible #PeerSupport #OverdosePrevention #RadicalEmpathy #StigmaFreeRecovery #PublicHealthResearch #CriminalJusticeReform #LivedExperienceMatters #IndianaRecovery #CommunityHealing #ShawnPNeal #AdvoCast
    続きを読む 一部表示
    51 分
  • The Impact of Substance Use Disorder on Pregnancy

    The Impact of Substance Use Disorder on Pregnancy
    2025/03/01
    This episode of Beyond Substance explores the complex and often misunderstood topic of substance use disorder during pregnancy and beyond. Hosts Dean Babcock talks with expert Dr. Camila Arnado and Jodi Miller talks with Ashna Clark.

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

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

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

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to Substance Use Disorder and Pregnancy
    03:08 Understanding the Statistics and Challenges
    06:01 Expert Insights from Dr. Camila Arnado
    12:12 The Complexities of Substance Use During Pregnancy
    17:50 The Postpartum Period: Risks and Realities
    23:59 Stigma and Barriers to Seeking Help
    30:00 Ashna Clark's Journey: A Personal Story of Recovery
    42:03 Hope and Support: Building a New Life
    45:52 Conclusion and Future Discussions
    続きを読む 一部表示
    49 分
  • From Seatbelts to Recovery: Harm Reduction Saves Lives

    From Seatbelts to Recovery: Harm Reduction Saves Lives
    2025/01/01
    In this episode of the Beyond Substance Podcast, hosts Dean Babcock and Jody Miller explore the transformative power of harm reduction in addressing substance use disorders. They engage in insightful conversations with Erika Chapman from the Indiana State Department of Health and Aisha Diss, founder of project.ME, discussing the importance of meeting individuals where they are, the impact of stigma, and the various forms of harm reduction available.

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

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

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


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

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

    Hosted by Dean Babcock and Jodi Miller
    Interview Segment Producer: Angela Shamblin
    Personal Story Producer: Shawn P Neal
    Executive Producer: Shawn P Neal
    Mixed at AvoCast Studio236
    続きを読む 一部表示
    50 分
  • Substance Use Disorder and the Hep-C Connection

    Substance Use Disorder and the Hep-C Connection
    2024/12/01
    This episode explores the critical intersection of substance use disorder and hepatitis C, featuring personal stories and expert insights.

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

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

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

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

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

    #addiction #substanceusedisorder #hepc #hepatitisc #RecoveryIsPossible #Stigma #Treatment #PublicHealth #Indiana #Indianapolis #buprenorphine #opioidusedisorder #addictiontreatment #primarycare #recovery #personalstories #healthcaresystem #communitysupport #trauma #healing #resilience #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #peersupport #heroin
    続きを読む 一部表示
    52 分