Hosted by Lisa Blanchard and Jesse Chaison of Spectrum Health Systems, this popular podcast discusses addiction and recovery, featuring personal stories, special guests and professional opinion.
Curlisa Henry is the Community Resource Coordinator at Legendary Legacies, where she supports men of all ages as they navigate reentry after incarceration and work toward positive, lasting change.With a background in public health, Curlisa brings a community-centered perspective to reentry, recognizing the critical connection between access to resources, supportive relationships, and long-term success.Through community engagement, relationship-building, and resource coordination, she helps create pathways to opportunity and successful reentry. Curlisa is committed to building stronger communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.Join Jesse and Lisa on this special Recovery Month episode, as we hear from one of many guests on these special episodes. Only on Airing Addiction!
9/4/26 • 53:21
Earl Murphy is a former Enterprise Account Executive at Salesforce and served as the Global President of Soberforce, Salesforce’s employee resource group dedicated to supporting individuals in recovery, allies, and those exploring a sober lifestyle. During his leadership, Earl championed the expansion of recovery-friendly workplace culture, fostering peer support networks, reducing stigma in the corporate environment, and advocating for inclusive corporate wellness initiatives.An experienced revenue leader and educator, Earl currently works as an Account Executive at Cribl and serves as an instructor at the University of New Hampshire’s Paul College of Business and Economics. He is passionate about helping organizations build workplace environments where individuals in recovery can thrive both personally and professionally.With 8+ years of continuous sobriety, Earl is an exemplar and practitioner of the power of recovery. Earl resides in New Hampshire with his wife, Audra, of 15 years, along with their two young kids.Join Jesse and Lisa to hear how Earl and Soberforce are transforming recovery in the workplace. Only on Airing Addiction!
8/27/26 • 50:06
On this episode of Airing Addiction:Laurel Chaison shares her firsthand experience of loving someone through addiction, and the impact it has on families. She hopes her story and experience can help reduce stigma, encourage honest conversations, and remind other families that healing and hope are possible.Join Jesse and Lisa to hear Laurel's inspiring story, only on Airing Addiction!
7/30/26 • 54:05
Jordan Hansen is CEO and co-founder of YourPath. A substance-use treatment organization that developed a revolutionary new concept of allowing the patient to take control of their recovery process.Jordan is an experienced leader focused on delivering value to healthcare systems through implementation of effective, integrated care for people with substance use disorders.He was previously the Vice President of Strategy and Growth for a recovery technology company, and before that, was the Clinical Director of Hazelden Betty Ford’s Professional Education Solutions team. In that role, he built a team that provided innovative solutions at the federal, state, local, and program level.Join Jesse and Lisa, to hear how Jordan has led lead a whole new way to approach the recovery process, only on Airing Addiction!
6/18/26 • 50:45
On this episode of Airing Addiction,Mathew Roosa, LCSW-R is a consultant who provides training, coaching, technical assistance and planning support to universities, research studies, governments, and health and human service provider organizations. Mathew was a founding member of NIATx, and works for the University of Wisconsin, Madison Center for Health Enhancement Systems Studies (CHESS) providing an array of training and technical assistance to the SAMHSA funded Technology Transfer Centers, Opioid Response Network (ORN) and for the Center for Mental Health Implementation Support (CMHIS). Focusing on quality improvement and implementation of evidence-based practices, Mr. Roosa’s experience includes psychotherapy for mental health and substance use in agencies and private practice, teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Human Services and Social Work, agency administration, and governmental planning.Join Jesse and Lisa to hear how Matt's work is benefiting the recovery community. Only on Airing Addiction!
5/28/26 • 50:39
On this episode of Airing Addiction,Malika is a woman in long term recovery with many years of sustained healing and lived experience, bringing over 24 years of professional experience in the substance use and recovery field. She is currently a Recovery Coach at Spectrum Health Systems’ Southbridge Outpatient Program, serving as a critical bridge between outpatient clinical services and peer-based recovery support. She has specialized training and brings experience in co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders, sex trafficking and sexual exploitation, homelessness, and work with marginalized populations to her career in addiction treatment. Malika is Founder and CEO of Trauma Healing Empowerment, Inc., a trauma informed 501(c)(3) nonprofit created to provide survivors with safe, empowering spaces to heal, grow, and break cycles rooted in unresolved trauma, often the key factor behind repeated relapse and instability.She also facilitates the trauma informed women’s support group “Little Girl Grows Up,” and serves as a dedicated mentor and advocate who believes recovery thrives through self-love, self-care, self-strength, and grace. Guided by the belief that “someone was there for me, how could I not be there for someone else,” she continues to be a driving force for healing, empowerment, and lasting recovery within the community.Join Jesse and Lisa on this empowering episode of Airing Addiction to hear Malika's story, and how she dedicates herself to helping lead others through recovery.
4/22/26 • 54:10
On this episode of Airing Addiction, Jesse and Lisa sit down with Dr. Amanda Lowell and Dr. Lili Peacock‑Chambers to explore how evidence‑based, relationship‑centered approaches support parents in recovery. Together, they discuss what the latest research tells us about breaking intergenerational cycles, strengthening caregiver–child relationships, and building systems that truly meet families affected by substance use where they are.Dr. Amanda Lowell is a licensed clinical psychologist, Assistant Professor at UMass Chan Medical School-Baystate, and Assistant Professor Adjunct at the Yale Child Study Center. As a clinician, Dr. Lowell provides psychotherapy and parenting support to caregivers who have experienced complex trauma, those who are in recovery from addiction, and any caregiver working to break harmful intergenerational cycles.Elizabeth (Lili) Peacock-Chambers MD, MS is the Chief of the Division of Health and Behavior in the Department of Healthcare Delivery and Population Sciences, a board-certified pediatrician, and an Associate Professor of Pediatrics and Healthcare Delivery and Population Sciences at UMass Chan-Baystate. As a pediatrician, her clinical and research interests pertain to the promotion of optimal early childhood health and development among families facing adversity and marginalization, particularly among families affected by substance use disorders.Join Jesse and Lisa for an insightful conversation with Dr. Lowell and Dr. Peacock‑Chambers, only on Airing Addiction!
3/24/26 • 50:56
Airing Addiction is honored to welcome Dr. Eric Garland, one of the world’s foremost researchers in mindfulness-based interventions for addiction, pain, and stress. Dr. Garland is a clinical researcher and psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience providing mindfulness-based therapy. He is the Distinguished Professor and Associate Dean for Research at the University of California San Diego, where he also directs the Center on Mindfulness and Integrative Health Intervention Development.Dr. Garland is best known as the developer of Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement (MORE) — an innovative, evidence‑based clinical intervention that integrates mindfulness training, cognitive‑behavioral therapy, and principles of positive psychology to support individuals struggling with addiction, emotional distress, chronic pain, and opioid use disorder. MORE has been tested in multiple NIH‑funded clinical trials and has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing addictive behaviors, improving emotional well‑being, and increasing positive emotions and meaning in life. Dr. Garland will explore how mindfulness, reappraisal, and savoring techniques can transform treatment for opioid use disorder Insights from decades of clinical research on pain, stress, and addictionThis conversation is especially timely as Spectrum Health Systems launches its participation in IMPOWER, a groundbreaking statewide research initiative in our Opioid Treatment Programs. IMPOWER will help advance the field’s understanding of how evidence-based, mindfulness‑integrated interventions like MORE can improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for individuals in recovery.Join us for an inspiring and deeply informative episode with one of the leading voices shaping the future of addiction treatment and integrative mental health.https://drericgarland.com/about/MORE Mindfulness
2/11/26 • 47:10
In this episode of Airing Addiction, we’re joined by Stephen Murray, executive leader at SafeSpot—the nation’s first and only professionalized, 24/7 peer-led overdose detection and prevention hotline. Formerly known as the Massachusetts Overdose Prevention Helpline, SafeSpot has quietly saved lives by doing something radically simple: staying with people while they use drugs and activating help if an emergency arises.Stephen shares the story behind SafeSpot’s evolution from a volunteer-run “Never Use Alone” line to a nationally funded, paid peer workforce operating across multiple states. We dive into what it means to professionalize lived experience, why dignity and compensation matter in harm reduction, and how a model where only 1 in 400 calls becomes an overdose can still be the difference between life and death.From workforce development to policy wins to the future of overdose prevention, this conversation explores how SafeSpot is building a scalable, human-centered response to the overdose crisis—one call at a time.Join Jesse and Lisa to hear how Stephen was inspired to start SafeSpot, only on Airing Addiction!”https://www.safe-spot.me
1/30/26 • 50:12
On this episode of Airing Addiction:Jeremy’s story is one of transformation and resilience. Growing up in a small country town, his life spiraled from drug dealing and addiction.After confronting his life of substance use, Jeremy completely turned his life around, embraced recovery, and discovered the joy of fatherhood. Jeremy's story reminds us that regardless of circumstances, hope and healing are always possible, and the transformation can often be total and life changing.Join Jesse and Lisa to hear this incredible story of recovery, only on Airing Addiction.
12/18/25 • 42:19
In this special Thanksgiving episode of Airing Addiction:Hosts Lisa Blanchard, Jesse Chaison, and producer James Gangemi explore the power of gratitude in recovery and community. They reflect on the incredible stories shared on the podcast, the courage of their guests, and the unwavering support of listeners who continue to inspire the mission of this show.Lisa and Jesse also explore what the holiday season can mean for individuals and families impacted by addiction—a time filled with warmth and connection, but also unique emotional challenges. They offer practical guidance on finding support, staying grounded, and extending compassion to yourself and to others during this often-complicated time of year.Join us as we celebrate thankfulness, acknowledge difficulty, and highlight the resilience produced from genuine heartfelt gratitude.We are thankful for YOU!-James, Jesse, and Lisa.
11/25/25 • 49:48
In this special “best-of” episode, hosts Lisa Blanchard and Jesse Chaison take listeners on a powerful journey through four years of Airing Addiction, spotlighting the transformative role of peer recovery. Through a curated collection of raw, heartfelt, and inspiring moments, this episode showcases how individuals in recovery use their lived experience to uplift, guide, and support others on their own paths to healing.Listeners will hear compelling stories of resilience, hope, and connection—each one a testament to the strength of community and the profound impact of peer support. Whether you're new to the podcast or a longtime follower, this episode offers a moving reflection on the importance of compassion, shared experience, and the recovery movement’s enduring spirit.Join Jesse and Lisa to hear the amazing guests we have had the privilege of sharing with listeners over the years. Hear their stories, only on Airing Addiction!”
10/31/25 • 50:14
On week four of Recovery Month, we are joined by guests Nancy Wright and Michelle May who are part of a special effort to use art to lift the spirits of those in active recovery.Michelle May is the founding partner at Juniper Rag, Atelier ID Global, as well as an abstract expressionist painterNancy Wright is a photographer focused primarily on nature, wildlife and capturing abstract moments within these images. Founded in 2020, Juniper Rag seeks to enrich communities by facilitating dialogue and creating spaces where cultural expression through creative practices contribute to personal and collective well-being, and growth. You can view the work Nancy and Michelle did at Spectrum Health Systems, Inc.'s outpatient clinic at https://www.juniperrag.com/spectrum-collectionJoin Jesse and Lisa on the last episode of Recovery Month to learn about Juniper Rag, and how art and expression can play a healing role in recovery.
9/23/25 • 47:22
On this special episode of Airing Addiction for week 3 of Recovery Month, Michael Earielo shares how community and peer support play an important role in supporting those in active recovery.Michael has been the Director of Spectrum Health System’s Everyday Miracles Peer Recovery Center in Worcester, MA, since October 2016. He has over 20 years of experience with addiction and recovery. He recently received his CADAC and Recovery Coach Certification from the state of Massachusetts. For many years, he’s been dedicated to working with the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office, Worcester Police Department, the City of Worcester, and other community Partners to help the recovery community improve their day-to-day lives, realize their goals, and attain a better quality of life.Join Jesse and Lisa to hear from Michael about why community matters for recovery. Only on Airing Addiction!
9/18/25 • 52:39
On this episode of Airing Addiction:We are joined by Rose Gage and Lynn LeBlanc-Marrone to dive head-first into why family engagement is so important for cultivating a foundation of support for loved ones in active recovery. Join us as we explore how impactful family support is, as Jesse and Lisa tap into Rose and Lynn’s extensive clinical experience on this week's special Recovery Month episode.Rose Gage, LMHC, is the Family Engagement Specialist at New England Recovery Center (NERC) in Westborough, MA.She began her career at NERC over three years ago as a clinician in their inpatient CSS. She took on her new role in March of 2023 and has really enjoyed working with clients and their family members/ support systems. She has witnessed the value that family engagement has on both patients and their loved ones. She strives to create a safe environment that fosters open communication, validation of thoughts and feelings, and education about addiction and the recovery process.Lynn LeBlanc-Marrone is the Executive Director of Inpatient & Outpatient Clinical Services for Spectrum Health Systems. Lynn is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor with 40 years of clinical and supervisory experience in the treatment of mental health and substance use disorders.She is a member of Spectrum’s FAST Magnolia team, which provides virtual family-focused education and support meetings for the loved ones of individuals navigating addiction/recovery.Lynn holds a master’s degree in counseling psychology from Assumption College.Hear Lynn and Rose, with your hosts Lisa and Jesse. Only on Airing Addiction!
9/11/25 • 49:53
On this episode of Airing Addiction:Rachel Sasseville, LICSW, LADC-I, is the Director of Corporate Training at Spectrum Health Systems, where she leads organization-wide efforts to improve clinical quality and support professional development across the continuum of substance use treatment.A licensed independent clinical social worker and alcohol and drug counselor, Rachel brings over 15 years of experience in behavioral health to her work. She specializes in designing and delivering practical, evidence-based training that equips clinicians and treatment teams with the skills needed to provide effective, compassionate, and outcomes-driven care.And her favorite flavor of ice cream is cookies and cream.Join Lisa and Jesse for Recovery Month! Only on Airing Addiction.
9/4/25 • 49:57
Aileen Lovejoy is the mom of a son who suffered with the disease of addiction for 20+yrs and died on May 12th, 2013, Mother's Day, from an overdose 2 days following his birthday. She co-facilitates the HALO 18 Grief Group in Worcester. Aileen volunteers as a group leader for grief support at the Carriage House, Worcester, and is a member of Team Sharing-MA. She is a Peer Grief Support Specialist and a Peer Grief Ally, providing one on one support to those who have loved one to the disease of addiction. Aileen is also a member of the Worcester DA's Opioid Task Force.Join Jesse and Lisa to hear Aileen's story on this episode of Airing Addiction.
8/29/25 • 48:57
On this episode of Airing Addiction:William Powers is a dedicated Recovery Coach at the Bridge to Hope peer recovery support center in Southbridge, Massachusetts, bringing over 18 years of experience in recovery-based programming—and a powerful foundation of lived experience—to his role.His personal journey through recovery deeply informs his approach, allowing him to connect with individuals on a meaningful level and offer authentic, empathetic support.William is trained in Restorative Justice, Recovery Coaching, Alternatives to Violence, Nurturing Fathers, and at-risk youth engagement. His lived experience, combined with professional training, enables him to guide others with insight, compassion, and credibility—helping them navigate the complexities of recovery and personal transformation.In addition to his coaching work, William is a published author and committed community advocate. He is the founder and president of Crossing the Rubicon, a self-development program designed to help individuals overcome personal barriers and achieve lasting growth. He also serves as a board member for two nonprofit organizations, reflecting his ongoing dedication to creating positive change in the lives of others.Join Athena and Lisa to hear of William's powerful experience. Only on Airing Addiction.
7/25/25 • 49:11
On this episode of Airing Addiction,Associate Pastor James McGowan of New Life Community Church in Concord, MA, is driven by a passion to help people say “Yes!” to Jesus. With over 15 years of ministry experience, James has earned a reputation for providing compassionate care and biblically grounded guidance. As the founder and director of True Treasure Ministries, he leads a biblical counseling and training center dedicated to equipping individuals and churches to make disciples for Christ.James’ journey was not without struggle. Growing up, he faced confusion and pain from his parents’ divorce and sexual abuse, which led him to become a “relational escape artist” and battle an addiction to prescription painkillers. Despite repeated attempts to change, it wasn’t until 2007, when a friend asked him if he understood his relationship with Jesus, that James embraced God’s gift of life, finding true freedom.Before his current roles, James served as a Chaplain at the Springfield Rescue Mission in Massachusetts for eight years. In 2016, he earned certification from the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC), with a specialty in addiction counseling, further deepening his ability to minister to those in need.In his free time, James enjoys tinkering with new and vintage wristwatches, learning the piano, and cheering for Boston sports teams. He lives in Marlborough with his wife, Amy, and their three young daughters.Connect with James at www.awakendiscipleship.com to learn more about his ministry and how he can help you grow in Christ.Join Lisa and Jesse to hear James's story and triumph over substance use, only on Airing Addiction.
6/24/25 • 47:26
On this episode of Airing Addiction:Kirsten Puccio and Keri McCallum founded M.I.R.A.C.L.E. Mamas lead and empower mothers in recovery, to advocate for systematic change with support through a peer-led initiative in order to promote family reunification.Their passion was to help other mothers who are struggling with substance use disorder as they once did. As they once suffered in isolation out of fear from the judgement and stigma people with SUD often face especially being a mother, they knew they wanted to help another mother never to have to feel that way. When they looked around their community, they saw there was a lack of spaces for mothers to go comfortably to discuss issues they were experiencing such as substance use during pregnancy, involvement with the department of children & families, losing custody of their children, etc. They decided then and there to create that space, which they did at Everyday Miracles Peer Recovery Support Center in Worcester, Massachusetts.You can visit their website at https://miracle-mamas.com/Join Jesse and Lisa on this episode of Airing Addiction.
5/8/25 • 48:11
Brittany Alene Jimenez started her sobriety journey on July 15, 2020.She is a mother, friend, and outdoor enthusiast who finds solace in exercise and mountain therapy. An aspiring pilot with a passion for nursing, currently pursuing a fast-tracked DNP program. With three years of experience as a pulmonary triage nurse and Med-Surg bedside medicine at UMass, she's committed to developing skills that will shape her future in healthcare. She takes pride in the relationships she's built through recovery, showing up with compassion and authenticity in both personal and professional life.“One word frees us of all the weight and pain of life: That word is love.” -SophoclesJoin Jesse and Lisa to hear Brittany's story. Only on Airing Addiction!
3/7/25 • 49:08
On this episode of Airing Addiction, John Marhefka and Matt Gear share details on their nonprofit GAAP Recovery:G.A.A.P Recovery is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that works with individuals and families who suffer from mental health challenges, and substance use disorders. They provide individuals with financial resources for the barriers they may face in paying for sober living.G.A.A.P Recovery has given out 10 scholarships in 2024 and we are seeking to expand that with your help...All proceeds will benefit GAAP recovery's mission to create a community where men and fathers impacted by opioid use disorder, and the criminal justice system, are empowered to rebuild their lives, achieve lasting recovery, and reconnect with their families, through compassionate support, innovative programs, and a commitment to equity and inclusivity.Visit https://gaaprecovery.org/ to learn more.Join Jesse and Lisa on this episode of Airing Addiction to hear more of the amazing work John and Matt are doing in the recovery community.
1/22/25 • 63:31
My name is John Marhefka and I am a grateful father in recovery. I have dedicated my life to opening doors, advocating and supporting those who are recovering. I wholeheartedly feel that my success in overcoming barriers was from the support of the peers that have paved the road before me. Peer recovery service centers have played a monumental role in my recovery and continue to do so. I have been blessed with the opportunity to serve the Town of Marlboro as the Program Director here at The Recovery Connection. I will continue to be the voice for those who have not found it, and the advocate for the change that is needed in our community.Join Jesse and Lisa to hear John's story on this episode of Airing Addiction.
12/21/24 • 57:01
Matt Gear shares about the recovery coaching process and its impact on individuals with substance use disorder in our communities. Join Jesse and Lisa on this episode of Airing Addiction!
11/22/24 • 54:45
On this episode of Airing Addiction:Ralph was a patient at New England Recovery Center December 2021 and was openminded to suggestions and motivated to change his life. He is a powerful testament of putting in the work and getting the positive results. He now works at NERC as a Recovery Specialist helping others just like he was helped. Ralph has a powerful story of experience, strength and hope to share.Join Jesse and Lisa to hear Ralph's story, only on Airing Addiction!
10/11/24 • 46:22
On this episode of Airing Addiction:This week we highlight how feeling a sense of belonging can help people on their recovery journey. Program directors Kim Patterson and Ladonne Rogers will share how Peer Recovery Support Centers create community.Building social supports and a caring community is essential for recovery.• We do not recover alone. Recovery can be easier with the support of others.• Community can include people who accept us and encourage us to grow.• Family, friends, peers, and others play an important role in someone’s recovery.• Recovery is supported through meaningful relationships.• Social inclusion, not isolation, is important for recovery.Guest bios:Kim Patterson has been with Spectrum Health Systems as the Program Director of Recovery Exchange since March of 2023. Kim has worked in the city of Lynn serving the homeless and people with substance use disorder for 25 years. Kim has worked with homeless adults, families, and teen mothers. Kim has also worked as a case manager with women in recovery in the city of Lynn. Kim is a woman in long term recovery and has the compassion, empathy, and understanding necessary to assist others on their road to recovery. Kim has a passion for helping others to achieve independence and self–sufficiency. Kim has completed recovery coach training and recovery coach supervisor training to gain the tools necessary to better assist both those seeking recovery and staff seeking to provide services.Ladonne Rogers has been a Peer Coordinator at Spectrum Health Systems, Recovery Exchange since July 26, 2023. Ladonne has 8 years in his personal recovery and 20+ years of lived experience. Ladonne Coordinates the members in the center to a safe and supportive environment, for participants who might want to volunteer or work on their personal recovery. Ladonne is very passionate about his recovery and empowering new members to work their recovery and set goals to help them build a foundation for bettering their lives.Join Jesse and Lisa on this Recovery Month episode of Airing Addiction!
9/24/24 • 45:51
On this episode of Airing Addiction:This week we highlight the importance of purpose as a motivator for positive change. Kathleen Wise shares her recovery story and how giving back by supporting others at New England Recovery Center helps her find her purpose.Finding purpose in life may be a powerful driver for recovery.• Purpose includes meaningful daily activities.• Employment can support recovery, give a sense of purpose, and a way to provide for yourself and your family.• Purpose may include a job, school, volunteering, caregiving, or creative pursuits.• Spirituality can bring a sense of purpose and meaning that helps foster recovery.• Helping others can bring a great sense of purpose and contribute to recovery.Join Jesse and Lisa on this Recovery Month episode of Airing Addiction!
9/18/24 • 45:25
On this episode of Airing Addiction:We all need a stable and safe place to call home.- A home provides the foundation for a life in recovery. - Home is a safe, stable, and soft space to land…. even on those really hard days. - Creating safe, affordable housing for all with mental health and substance use conditions supports their recovery. Join hosts Jesse Chaison and Lisa Blanchard for an insightful episode featuring a panel from the MetroWest Care Connection Housing Coalition, Greater Worcester Housing Connection at SMOC and Open Sky Community Services. We’ll dive deep into the critical role that safe and stable housing plays in the recovery journey from mental health and substance use conditions.
9/12/24 • 44:01
On this episode of Airing Addiction:This week we highlight aspects of well-being and their importance to recovery with Katie Heinrich and Sydney Durand from the National Sober Active Community - The Phoenix National Sober Active CommunityWe can strive to be healthier and achieve our wellness goals.• We can overcome challenges related to mental health and substance use conditions.• It is OK to reach out for help with substance use and mental health conditions.• Making informed healthy choices can support our well-being.• It's OK and important to reach out for help, especially if addiction or mental health conditions are affecting our relationships, work, or day-to-day life.---------------------------------------------------Guest bios:Sydney Durand, Director of Philanthropic AdvancementSydney is the Director of Philanthropic Advancement at The Phoenix, where she works on initiatives to accelerate fundraising in the rapidly scaling organization. Since joining The Phoenix in 2016, she has held several dynamic, multidimensional roles across program and development leadership teams. Sydney was one of the founding staff when the organization first expanded to Boston, leading the opening of The Phoenix’s regional headquarters in Boston in 2018, and the expansion of programs across the broader New England Region. She earned her Undergraduate Degree in Community and International Development with a minor in Spanish from the University of Vermont in 2015, where she also ran collegiate Track & Field. Sydney was formerly on the Program Strategy Committee and Together in Recovery Committee with RIZE Massachusetts and the New Market Business Improvement District Board.Katie Heinrich, Manager of Research & EvaluationKatie is a former tenured university professor and administrator having served at two land grant universities, the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa and Kansas State University. Her internationally recognized research focuses on the impacts of meaningful activities that foster a sense of community, including high-intensity functional training (e.g., CrossFit), on health, fitness, and addiction recovery outcomes. Her work has focused on populations across the lifespan including youth through older adults and tactical athletes. She has over 120 peer-reviewed research publications and including co-authoring a new chapter on Brain Health and Brain-Related Disorders for the American College of Sports Medicine's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription (11th and 12th Editions).
9/5/24 • 45:51
On this episode of Airing Addiction;Jesse and Lisa will discuss overdose and options available for treatment such as access to mobile MAT care with Regional Program Director Heidi DiRoberto, Director of Nursing Amanda Bouchard, and RSN Mariana Valera.Guest bios:Heidi DiRoberto, LMHC, Regional Executive Director for Spectrum Health Systems Outpatient Division. Heidi oversees the central region which includes Spectrum’s largest OTP, Spectrum’s first mobile unit, as well their rapid access Hub and Spoke program. Along with her team, Heidi has operationalized methadone delivery to skilled nursing facilities in the Worcester area and pharmacy access/delivery of Naloxone in the OTP. Heidi specializes in substance use disordered treatment, grief and loss, trauma informed care, Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavior therapies.Amanda Bouchard, BSN, RN, CARN has worked in multiple roles throughout her 5 years at Spectrum and is currently the Outpatient Director of Nursing. Amanda is a Certified Addictions Registered Nurse and passionate in ensuring that Spectrum promotes progressive and alternative solutions to help engage and retain patients in treatment and to promote optimal outcomes collaboratively with our patients.Mariana Valera, BA, has been a Recovery Support Navigator at Spectrum Health Systems since September 2021. She is currently a graduate student at Assumption University working to obtain her degree in clinical counseling. Over this past summer she has spent her time transitioning into the clinical intern role at the program.
8/28/24 • 45:18