In this episode of The NOCE Dose podcast, host Bianca D. McCall sits down with Cheryl Nixon, a certified peer recovery support specialist, for a heartfelt conversation about the realities of opioid use disorder and the journey toward healing. Cheryl shares her personal story, emphasizing the power of belief, the importance of meeting people where they are, and the role of community in recovery. Together, they unpack the stigma around medication-assisted treatment (MAT), the need to address basic human needs before tackling addiction, and how recovery is a "we thing"—not a solitary journey. Cheryl reflects on the vital impact one supportive person can have and encourages listeners to "reach back and grab someone," fostering connection, accountability, and hope. This episode highlights that recovery is not only possible but thrives through compassion, understanding, and community action.

Funding for this activity was made possible in whole or in part by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Director’s Office through the Fund for a Resilient Nevada, established in Nevada Revised Statutes 433.712 through 433.744. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Nevada Opioid Center of Excellence or its funders.