Sagely Speaking

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In this very important episode, we welcome Dr. Bertha Madras who has been at the forefront of discussions around drug policy for decades. Among the many areas she focuses on, we discussed her research into psychedelic drug therapies and her very concerned viewpoint. With billions of dollars pouring into this emerging field, Dr. Madras sheds light on the complexities and controversies surrounding these treatments and how the crucial cautionary narratives are omitted, potentially misleading the public about the realities of this therapy. She also talks about the dangers of the FDA's recommendation to reschedule marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III and the potentially hazardous implications of this proposed change. Listening to Bertha discuss drug abuse as a whole makes this episode a must-listen.

Emmitt Smith, the three time Super Bowl champion and football legend emphasizes the importance of mental toughness and physical resilience in the sport. Smith, who famously played through injuries with minimal medication, warns about the dangers of relying on opioids for pain management. He talks about his role as a speaker at college campuses, educating athletes on the dangers of drugs and the importance of carrying the life saving medicine, NARCAN.

Greg Totten, CEO of the California District Attorneys Association, is an influential figure at the forefront of the multifaceted challenges facing California, including homelessness, rampant retail theft, and the alarming rise of fentanyl addiction. He is leading the efforts on a California measure called, The Homelessness, Drug Addiction and Theft Reduction Act which will reform Prop 47, an initiative which many people credit as having created multiple humanitarian crisis throughout California.

On this episode, I had the privilege of hosting a seasoned expert, a 32-year veteran of the DEA, whose insights shed light on the intricate dynamics of the drug trade. Our conversation delved into the complex interplay between supply and demand, touching upon the operations of drug cartels and the influence of global players like China. We explored the evolving challenges, particularly concerning the accessibility of drugs to youth, exacerbated by the alarming ease with which they can be procured via social media platforms functioning as open-air drug markets.

If you're an employer you really need to tune in to this week’s show. Lorraine Martin talks about her leadership at the National Safety Council, and how the NSC serves as a vital conduit for workplace safety information. She offers comprehensive guidelines for general safety practices and talks about the concerning rise in drug overdoses in workplaces and the proactive measures the NSC has taken to address this issue head-on.

Michael Braun sheds light on the intricate network behind the Mexican cartels' dominance in supplying fentanyl, emphasizing their dependence on chemical companies in China for production. He underscores the financial motivations driving this collaboration and raising questions about China's role in facilitating such operations and the potential motivations behind it.

A proven thought leader and Professor of Psychiatry at Stanford University, Dr. Keith Humphreys emphasizes the crucial role of law enforcement and health care workers joining together to solve our Nation's drug problem. He also talks about his leadership as a former drug policy advisor at the White House in expanding public access to naloxone, the overdose reversal medication, that is helping to save lives.

In this episode we delve into the complex world of the drug epidemic and an innovative academic response with the founding director of the Institute for Addiction Science at host Mary Bono's alma mater, the University of Southern California (USC). In this insightful conversation, Dr. Adam Leventhal, discusses his approach to the multifaceted issues surrounding drug regulation, policy, and challenges in trying to stay ahead of the epidemic.

In this compelling episode Congresswoman Mary Bono engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Captain Christopher Jones, the Director of the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, about the critical importance of safeguarding our loved ones from the dangers of substance abuse. Their conversation delves into the multifaceted challenges faced by communities in combatting drug abuse and the urgent need for proactive preventative measures. Captain Jones passionately emphasizes the crucial role of education, early intervention, and community support in fostering resilience against substance misuse.

Mary Bono's guest this episode on Sagely Speaking is a friend and a leader in advocacy and policy at Safe States Alliance. With his commitment to public health, Rich Hamburg works tirelessly to address a myriad of issues, always prioritizing prevention and wellness. His dedication to promoting policies that safeguard communities against illness and injury is unparalleled. Whether advocating for access to healthcare, supporting initiatives to combat infectious diseases, or championing measures to prevent substance abuse, he consistently demonstrates a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of public health issues and the need for collaborative solutions.

Despite enduring the heart-wrenching loss of her daughter to a tragic drug overdose, Angela Kennecke finds solace in channeling her grief into a beacon of hope for others. With unwavering determination, she founded a charity in her daughter's name, Emily's Hope, which is dedicated to supporting parents grappling with similar struggles. Angela remains resolute in her mission to prevent other families from experiencing the anguish she endured.

Rob Perry, the visionary founder of XOMAD, talks about revolutionizing influencer marketing by tapping into the "power of local messengers," recognizing the potential to reach audiences en masse by employing local influencers. XOMAD can use the technology to disseminate the word about the current drug epidemic by leveraging authentic voices of influencers within specific communities, which will make the impact widespread. In a XOMAD/Mothers Against Prescription Drug Abuse post-campaign discussion, Rob and Mary talk about the success of "The Greatest Gift is a Conversation" campaign and how the innovative approach had a profound impact and resonated with mothers to talk to their loved ones about the dangers of drug abuse.oach, not only harnesses the reach of social media, but it also cultivates a genuine connection between the brand and its audience.

Tom Wolf, a fierce advocate against failing addiction and homeless policies, bravely took the stage in this episode of Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono, opening up about his journey through drug addiction and subsequent recovery. His story unfolds as a testament to resilience and the transformative power of rehabilitation. Wolf's candid account not only sheds light on the harrowing depths of addiction but also serves as an inspiring narrative of redemption and the pursuit of a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Congressman Buddy Carter passionately discusses the urgent need for Naloxone in every school across America. He underscores his critical role in the Saving our Students in School Act ensuring that every school is equipped to handle opioid-related incidents. Additionally, he touched upon his involvement in advancing Sammy's Law aimed at empowering parents to identify and intervene in situations where an individual may attempt to exploit or solicit their children on social media. His commitment to protecting students and families through comprehensive legislation is evident in his advocacy for these crucial initiatives.

The inaugural Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono kicks off with Matt Capelouto who lost his daughter Alexandra to fentanyl poisoning in 2019. Matt became president of Drug-Induced Homicide Foundation, and has introduced Senate Bill 44, otherwise known as "Alexandra's Law," which would help prosecutors bring murder charges against convicted drug dealers. For some grieving parents, laws like this represent a path to justice—the only way to punish the people they believe “poisoned” their children in a country that has gone soft against hardened criminals. For others, it’s a doomed latter-day embrace of the war on drugs that will only bring more pain and suffering.