This episode features Davina Mena, tribal liaison for the Arizona Division of Problem Gambling, discussing the importance of relationship-building, cultural humility, and authentic communication when working alongside tribal communities.

The conversation explores what tribal liaisons actually do, why many professionals are still unfamiliar with the role, and how tribal liaisons help bridge communication and collaboration between tribal communities and state agencies. Davina shares why listening first matters more than arriving with predetermined solutions and explains how trust is built through genuine human connection.

The discussion also challenges traditional Western approaches to treatment and prevention, particularly in problem gambling services. Storytelling, community, and relationship-centered conversations are highlighted as meaningful ways to engage tribal communities more effectively than statistics or symptom-focused models alone.

This episode is a thoughtful conversation about trust, culture, connection, and the future of problem gambling prevention and recovery support.

About the Guest

Davina Mena, the first tribal liaison for the Arizona Division of Problem Gambling, serves as a bridge between tribal communities and the division. She focuses on addressing problem gambling by promoting the prevention and treatment through culture revitalization and community empowerment. Davina has several years of experience ranging from trauma-informed direct practice to community outreach and prevention. Davina is a 4th generation Tucsonan, proud Chicana and holds a Masters degree in Social Work from Arizona State University.

Links:

• DPG Website: problemgambling.az.gov
• Immediate problem gambling supports:
  • Text NEXTSTEP to 53342
  • Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP
  • Chat With us on our website, ProblemGambling.az.gov
• Follow us on Facebook at Arizona Division of Problem Gambling
• X at ArizonaDPG
• Email: dmena@azgaming.gov

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Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier. This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery. Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field. Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery. Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.