The Addiction Podcast-Point of No Return

Dan Zsido has had 15 years of narcotics investigative experience with the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. He established and supervised the Strategic Diversion Task Force investigating pharmaceutical crimes, doctor shopping, fraud, trafficking and more. Currently Dan is the Training and Education Director at NADDI (National Association of Drug Diversion Investigators) - The Training and Education Director assists the Executive Board in the development and implementation of NADDI Training Conferences and Dan is the man for the job! Dan Zsido is an awesome addition to the NADDI Executive Board. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the NADDI organization and strives to keep our training’s fresh, fun, and educational. PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return theaddictionpodcast@yahoo.com Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Thaddeus’ service to this country began its course while proudly serving in the United States Air Force. He served on the Terrell County Independent School District School Board for eight years and as the Board President four of those years. His viewpoint: “Students and our school's educators are at the forefront of our nations foundation. Texas must lead the nation by adapting our approach to doing what is best for the students first and foremost so we as Texans and parents promote the most effective solutions to prepare future leaders of Texas and our nation with what they need to reach their full potential.” Currently Thaddeus C. Cleveland is the Sheriff for Terrell County, Texas. He was appointed as Sheriff on May 17, 2022. Prior to his appointment, Sheriff Cleveland spent just over 26 years in the United States Border Patrol and the last 11 years of his career as the Patrol Agent in Charge of the Sanderson Border Patrol Station. Sheriff Cleveland entered on duty with the U.S. Border Patrol on February 26, 1996, as a member of Class 300. His first duty assignment as a Border Patrol agent was at the Nogales Border Patrol Station in the Tucson Sector. Since his entry into the U.S. Border Patrol, Sheriff Cleveland served as a Border Patrol Agent at Sierra Blanca, Texas, a Senior Patrol Agent at Eagle Pass, Texas, a Supervisory Border Patrol Agent at Douglas, Arizona and Artesia, New Mexico. He has also served as a Field Operations Supervisor at Naco, Arizona and Alpine, Texas. Sheriff Cleveland served as an Assistant Chief in Washington, D.C. at the Office of Border Patrol as well as Customs and Border Protection’s Commissioner’s Office of Anti-Terrorism and Office of State, Local and Tribal Liaison. PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return theaddictionpodcast@yahoo.com Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Lisa Gregory (qual it make sure it was both alc and drugs). The has one pp in Podpage, this is expanded: Step into the riveting and uncharted territory of Lisa Gregory's life as she takes the mic on our podcast, baring her soul in a tale that will leave you utterly spellbound. Prepare to embark on an emotional rollercoaster as Lisa unravels her journey through the treacherous waters of addiction with a sobriety date etched in history, the day her world shifted forever, on the poignant 14th of February, 2022. Hailing from the vibrant city of Brisbane, Australia, Lisa's story is a mosaic of courage, resilience, and redemption. For 28 long and arduous years, she wrestled with the relentless demons of drug and alcohol addiction, fighting an epic battle against the shadows that threatened to engulf her entirely. But there's more to Lisa than just her struggles. Amidst the turmoil, love emerged as a guiding beacon in her life. Enter Paul, her steadfast and devoted fiancé, whose unwavering support became the bedrock upon which Lisa built her path to recovery. Together, they're a force to be reckoned with, proving that love can conquer the most unfathomable darkness. Lisa's journey of transformation is one that transcends her own existence, extending its profound impact on the lives of her loved ones. As a mother to a 19-year-old son, she bravely faced the challenges of parenthood while grappling with her personal demons. And fate had more in store for her, as she embraced the role of a stepmother to Paul's five beautiful boys, forming a remarkable blended family that stands tall against all odds. In her raw and unfiltered account on our podcast, Lisa will paint a vivid picture of her harrowing lows and the awe-inspiring highs of her battle against addiction. You'll be transported through the darkest nights of her soul, feeling the weight of her struggles, and then lifted by the warmth of hope as she discovers newfound strength within herself. Through tears and laughter, heartache and triumph, Lisa's captivating narrative will leave an indelible mark on your heart. Her story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit, proving that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds, one can rise like a phoenix from the ashes and embrace a life beyond imagination. Get ready to be inspired, moved, and forever changed by Lisa Gregory's extraordinary tale of redemption, love, and the unwavering pursuit of a brighter tomorrow. Tune in to our podcast and witness the power of the human spirit in its most glorious form. PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return theaddictionpodcast@yahoo.com Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

April Babcock, a resolute mother, has weathered the darkest storm a parent can endure. In the cruel grasp of 2019, she was forced to bid a heartbreaking farewell to her precious son, Austen, a victim of the sinister clutches of fentanyl poisoning. Her agony, however, did not cripple her spirit; it ignited an unquenchable fire within her soul. With unwavering determination, April Babcock's anguished heart transmuted into a relentless force of change. Her unyielding resolve manifested in bold actions as she fearlessly reached out to the corridors of power, demanding accountability from government officials. Her rallying cry echoed through the hallowed halls of authority, compelling them to confront the scourge of fentanyl poisoning head-on. Out of the ashes of her personal tragedy, April forged a rallying point for kindred spirits whose lives had been forever marred by this insidious peril. In founding the Lost Voices of Fentanyl (LVOF), she discovered a tapestry of shared sorrow and collective resilience. A grassroots nonprofit organization emerged, a phoenix of purpose and unity, composed of grieving families and concerned citizens united by a singular mission: to halt the epidemic of Illicit Fentanyl Poisoning and shatter its chains of devastation. As the sun rises on September 23, 2023, April Babcock's vision will crescendo in the heart of the nation's capital, Washington D.C. There, against the backdrop of the storied monuments, she will lead the charge in the third annual national rally—an unrelenting call to arms that will echo across the land. The rallying cry will pierce through the walls of indifference, a clarion demand that can no longer be silenced or ignored. Lost Voices of Fentanyl is not a mere collective of bereaved souls; it is a beacon of action, an agent of awareness, and a sentinel of prevention. It embarks on a formidable mission to expose the channels of supply, to unmask the enigmatic machinations of the CCP, to unveil the shadowy dealings of the Mexican Cartels, and to unflinchingly confront the harbingers of death: drug dealers and traffickers, modern-day serial executioners. A relentless spotlight is cast on the heart-wrenching scenes unfolding on American soil. The public must bear witness to the tragedy unfolding in our midst, a stark reminder of the urgent need for unassailable fortifications that shield the lives of our fellow citizens. The very fabric of the American promise is under siege, and the clarion call of Lost Voices of Fentanyl is a thunderous reminder that the guardians of our nation must rise to the occasion. LVOF is more than an organization; it's a symphony of resilience. It's a resolute movement that rejects the notion of being mere bystanders to sorrow. April Babcock and her compatriots embody a spirit that refuses to be shackled by grief alone. Instead, they wield it as a formidable weapon, an instrument of change, an unbreakable resolve to transform sorrow into strength. The echo of their impassioned voices will reverberate through the annals of history, a testament to the power of parents’ love and anguish, catalyzing a nation to rise from the ashes of despair and forge a future free from the clutches of fentanyl's poison. The legacy of Lost Voices of Fentanyl is etched in the hearts of those who march alongside, an indomitable force demanding a safer, brighter, and more just world. Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

I am Amy, the mother of an 18 year old son who has struggled with SUD and MH challenges. He is still alive, but the road over the past 4 years is one that will spin heads. Every system has failed our family. I understand I cannot want my son to get help more than he does and I know at this point I can let him know I love him and I can ultimately only save myself from this ugly illness. I authored an article for the School of Social Work at the University of Minnesota, identifying ways in which the systems failed a kid in desperate need of help. It all unraveled when my son was DM'ing with a friend who completed suicide that night. She was 13 years old and my son turned to substances to not have to feel. Here we are 4 years later, overdose, jail time in GA, joke of probation in MN after breaking repeated laws and violating every rule of probation and treatment never ordered through the courts despite 4 letter from professionals saying this would be the only solution. Son ran from 2 wilderness programs, we have spent over 200,000 to try to get help, reports to child protection, criminal lawyer, education attorney and we are still stuck. I now intend to advocate for other families and share what I have learned. Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Rev. Christian Janson Step into the gripping world of redemption and resilience with Rev. Christian Janson, the indomitable power behind the awe-inspiring Most High Ministries. Brace yourself for a tale of triumph over darkness, as he emerges from the depths of personal struggle to become a beacon of hope for those lost in the clutches of addiction. Christian's journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Battling the demons of addiction, he grappled with the abyss and emerged victorious, standing tall in the face of adversity. Transformed by a life-changing prayer retreat, he vowed to be a guiding light for others trapped in the same merciless cycle. In this captivating podcast, you'll hear heart-rending accounts of a once shattered life mended with the threads of faith and perseverance and the triumphant ascent from the abyss. But be warned, for this podcast is not for the faint of heart. It will grip your soul, challenging you to confront your own demons and find the strength to rise above. Rev. Christian Janson’s unwavering resolve will leave you in awe, and his unyielding passion for transforming lives will ignite a fire within you. Listen to his podcast at: https://mosthighmedia.org/ Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Brace yourself for a fascinating episode of **The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return**, featuring the Pulitzer Prize winning investigative journalist, **Barry Meier**, as we peel back the layers of the opioid crisis, examining its roots, aftermath, and the unsettling role played by the Sackler family and their empire, Purdue Pharma. Meier also discusses how he ventured into investigative reporting and provides context for his journey in creating the book that started it all – **"Pain Killer: An Empire Of Deceit And The Origin Of America’s Opioid Epidemic" In this groundbreaking book, Meier exposes the chilling truth behind the creation of OxyContin and its devastating impact on countless lives. The Netflix limited series, based on his work, thrusts viewers into the epicenter of the crisis, spotlighting the Sackler family's sordid connection to Purdue Pharma and their undeniable role in the nationwide tragedy. As you watch this interview and read the book, you'll gain incomparable insights into the opioid crisis that has ravaged America. Meier's narrative explores the origins and aftermath of this epidemic, giving voice to the perpetrators, victims, and those determined to uncover the truth. The Netflix series not only chronicles the haunting stories of those affected but also introduces us to the relentless truth-seekers whose lives have been forever altered by the invention of OxyContin. The Netflix series boasts a star-studded cast that brings this gripping narrative to life. **Matthew Broderick** takes on the role of Richard Sackler, the scion of the billionaire Sackler family and a senior executive at Purdue Pharma. **Uzo Aduba** from "Orange Is The New Black" embodies Edie, the investigator leading the case against Purdue, while **John Rothman** and **West Duchovny** portray Mortimer Sackler, co-owner of Purdue Pharma, and Shannon, a new recruit to the Purdue sales team, respectively. Additionally, **Dina Shihabi** steps into the shoes of Britt, a seasoned sales representative for Purdue. Tune in to our website or YouTube Channel - **The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return** - to gain a deeper understanding of the opioid crisis, the role of the Sackler family and Purdue Pharma, and the riveting personal stories that have shaped this tragic narrative. Subscribe now and be prepared to be both informed and moved by the revelations that unfold in this unmissable podcast episode. Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Prepare to be captivated by the electrifying presence of Phillip A. Barbb, a 2x Emmy®-nominated TV Producer, whose journey transcends far beyond the ordinary. As a dynamic performance coach, speaker, and author, he dives headfirst into the realm of emotional intelligence and unyielding leadership, igniting the flames of transformation in executives, entrepreneurs, and creatives alike. But that's not all; buckle up for an intense rollercoaster ride as we unravel the enigmatic layers of Phillip's world. With a dash of humor and a dose of motivation, he penned the awe-inspiring "All the Reasons I Hate My 28-Year-Old Boss," a business/personal development book that will leave you both laughing and empowered. As a keynote speaker, Phillip possesses the rare gift of connecting with diverse audiences, from high school & college students to personal development workshops to corporate leaders. Brace yourself as he educates, encourages, and empowers on a myriad of riveting topics, including Leadership Development, Workplace Ageism, Character Building, Peer Pressure, Social Media Influence, and Substance Abuse. But his passion doesn't stop at the podium. In his spare time, he channels his energy into volunteering with inmates in the Los Angeles County Jail System, extending a lifeline to those grappling with the claws of substance abuse. So, get ready to be swept away by the magnetic force of Phillip A. Barbb, a true force to be reckoned with in the world of dynamic leadership, personal growth, and unwavering compassion. Tune in and let his words ignite the spark of transformation within you. For more details, visit www.PhillipBarbb.com Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Meet Flindt Anderson, a true warrior in the war against the relentless grip of the Opioid and Fentanyl crisis. From the tender age of 13, Flindt's journey through addiction led him down a harrowing 23-year battle with Opioids, consuming a staggering 70-80 Vicodin pills daily. Emerging from the abyss of addiction, Flindt's life became a testament to the sheer strength of the human spirit. In 2009, he founded PAIN | Parents & Addicts in Need, a remarkable nonprofit providing rehabilitation services and unwavering family support, recognized as the 2021 California Nonprofit of the Year. Flindt's mission extends beyond recovery. As a certified distributor of Narcan, he fights to save lives, and as an advocate for groundbreaking legislation, he strikes fear into the heart of drug traffickers and suppliers. Fueling his unyielding drive, Flindt launched the trailblazing podcast, "Don't Hide The Scars," captivating listeners with in-depth episodes on addiction, drug culture, and their devastating effects. His groundbreaking vision culminated in the awe-inspiring documentary film series, "Don't Hide The Scars Project," unveiling the raw truth of addiction and the triumphant human spirit. Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Prepare to be captivated by Annie Grace's extraordinary journey, a story that defies conventional norms and leads to the ultimate victory for her and for others. At just 26 years old, Annie became the youngest Vice President in the history of a multinational company. But as her professional success soared, her drinking career took off with equal intensity. By the time she reached 35, Annie held a powerful global C-level marketing role, overseeing a staggering 28 countries. Yet, beneath the polished surface, a hidden battle raged. Night after night, Annie found solace in consuming nearly two bottles of wine, a ritual that brought temporary relief but took an ever-increasing toll. The price of her achievements became evident, and she no longer wanted to pay it. She made a courageous and life changing decision: alcohol would no longer control her destiny. Annie embarked on a remarkable journey of personal transformation. She completely revamped her relationship with alcohol, stripping it of its power and challenging her beliefs about its allure as a reward. Today, she stands as a guiding light, helping countless individuals around the globe follow in her footsteps. Annie’s approach transcends the limitations of traditional rehab methods. She has forged an entirely new way of perceiving the role of alcohol in our lives, creating a safe haven for those who question their drinking patterns without having to self-diagnose as alcoholics trapped in denial of an incurable disease. Through compassion and empathy, Annie understands that these emotions wield unparalleled strength over shame and blame, paving the way for lasting change. Annie offers a proven alternative to the prevailing notion of "success" in overcoming this addiction. Rejecting the belief that anything less than 100% abstinence equals failure, she guides individuals not on how to be sober, but on how to extinguish the desire to drink altogether. Her approach revolutionizes the landscape, providing a fresh perspective and transforming lives. https://www.amazon.com/Alcohol-Experiment-Alcohol-Free-Challenge-Interrupt/dp/0593330242/ https://thisnakedmind.com/the-alcohol-experiment/ https://thisnakedmind.com/this-naked-mind/ Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Jeannine Coulter's story is one of the most powerful and inspiring journeys of transformation and redemption you'll ever hear. For fifteen long years, Jeannine battled with addiction, leading to multiple arrests, homelessness, and spent her final days of shooting meth and heroin in a literal doghouse before getting sober in January of 2015. Today, Jeannine is a force to be reckoned with and is a successful entrepreneur, a popular TikTok creator, and host of the top rated recovery podcast, "Chasing Heroine." Less than three weeks after getting sober, she started teaching at a fitness studio that would transform her life and eventually bought that same studio at four years sober. Business exploded during Jeannine’s ownership (despite the pandemic and associated roadblocks) and she recently sold it for double what she paid for it, sparking her interest in entrepreneurship and creating a community. Jeannine is on a mission to help addicts transform their deepest pain and shame into meaning, purpose, and gratitude. Jeannine's message is clear: addicts in active addiction should never feel left behind. She creates valuable content to help them feel understood, included, and empowered. Her work as a TikTok creator and co-host of a recovery podcast is making a significant impact in the field of addiction and mental health. Jeannine’s story has been featured on FOX5 San Diego (where she lives), The Adversity Advantage Podcast and many others. Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Meet Lance Dyer, an extraordinary individual driven by unimaginable tragedy and unwavering courage. Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, Lance enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1982 and later became an esteemed member of the elite Ranger unit. But it was a devastating event in 2012 that changed his life forever. In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Lance's 14-year-old son, Dakota, tragically lost his life after consuming synthetic drugs, just once. Determined to bring justice to his son's memory, Lance fearlessly stepped forward to lead an unwavering charge against the manufacturers responsible for this dangerous substance. With unwavering resolve, Lance meticulously gathered irrefutable evidence and collaborated with the Drug Enforcement Administration, leading to the arrest and conviction of 13 individuals directly involved in Dakota's untimely demise. But his mission did not end there. Founding the Dakota Dyer Foundation, Lance became the beacon of hope in the battle against synthetic drugs. Teaming up with the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, he embarked on a crusade to educate youths, parents, and community leaders on the true dangers of synthetics. Not stopping at grassroots efforts, Lance tirelessly advocated for legislative action, ensuring that local, state, and federal legislators are aware of these dangers and pass effective laws to ban these hazardous substances. Lance Dyer's relentless dedication to the cause has transformed personal tragedy into a powerful force for change. Through the Dakota Dyer Foundation, he shines a light on the truth about synthetic drugs, empowering communities to combat this peril and safeguard their youth. His story serves as an inspiration for all, reminding us that even in the face of unspeakable loss, one person's courage can ignite a revolution of awareness and save countless lives. Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Jackie Gouché has traveled to six of the seven continents, singing in studios and on stages behind some of the most notable names in the music Industry including Elton John, Michael Jackson, Tina Turner, Diana Ross, Chaka Khan, Quincy Jones, Patti LaBelle, Jill Scott, Yolanda Adams, and a host of others. It was not always a smooth path, however, and Jackie had to master herself before she could become a vessel of light for her children. When her children were toddlers, Jackie found herself struggling with cocaine addiction. She writes about her journey of overcoming in her autobiography, How Would I Know? and her second book True Worshippers. Jackie has been sober for over 20 years now, which is a testament to the power of healing through God's grace and mercy. In her most recent work, Jackie candidly shares her experience as the mother of Daniel (D Smoke) Farris, Sir Darryl Farris (Inglewood Sir) and Davion Farris. Three young, Grammy-nominated artists who are taking the music industry by storm. Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

If you never heard Valerie’s story, it would be difficult to imagine that her daughter Jamie was murdered at the age of 30 or that it was not the first time Jamie had been shot — 12 years and 12 days earlier, she survived the same injury. But her story doesn’t reflect the woman you see today. Through the pain and trauma of Jamie’s addiction and her daughter’s senseless murder, Valerie has become a woman of unwavering strength and courage and helps others disrupt their trauma and use it for good. She is beyond grateful that she got to be Jamie’s mom for 30 years and still gets to be Sean’s. Valerie’s mission is not one she sought after but one that found her. While a part of her wishes she was assigned a different purpose, Valerie has fully embraced it and considers it an honor to stand with other women and help them shed their shame, guilt, and fear. She loves watching them disrupt their trauma and replace it with courage and hope. Valerie is the creator of the 9 Weapons of Hope®, her exclusive Arsenal of resources to build courage and beyond, which are a part of the Warriors in Hope® Empowerment coaching programs. She’s an inspirational and engaging speaker and an award-winning author of multiple books, workbooks, and journals. Valerie has a special heart for other moms with sons and daughters in addiction and those who have lost children, having walked those devastating paths herself. She also believes we have similar feelings no matter which of life’s Beasts have come calling, so your story doesn’t have to be anything like hers for you to become a Warrior in Hope! Her programs guide people to overcome the fallout from life’s many traumas. She helps women out of the darkness and into their legacy. Valerie is an effective leader because she walks her talk. She is compassionate while inspiring people to step out of their comfort zone and become more. Valerie is quick-witted, engaging, wise, and fun. She is a believer who does her best to walk out her mission and create a legacy of hope. She lives in Phoenix, AZ, with her husband, Rich, and her crazy cat, Fiona.Strip away all of her incredible accomplishments, and you’ll find that her story of “disrupting” the trauma in her life to pivot and take back her happiness was years in the making – even before she became a mother. https://valeriesilveira.com/9-weapons-of-hope/ Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

“A merciless pit bull of an investigator” is what the Chicago Tribune said about Gerald Posner, a former attorney turned investigative journalist and author. He has written thirteen acclaimed books, including New York Times hardcover nonfiction bestsellers Case Closed, Why America Slept and God’s Bankers. Posner was a finalist for the Pulitzer in History for Case Closed. He has also written dozens of articles and opinion pieces for leading national magazines and newspapers and is currently a contributor to Forbes, as well as reporting on a wide variety of topics in Just the Facts, his Substack. His latest book PHARMA: Greed, Lies and the Poisoning of America (2020) won the Florida Best General Nonfiction Award and was shortlisted for Best Business Book by the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing. The New York Times said PHARMA was “a withering and encyclopedic indictment of a drug industry that often seems to prioritize profits over patients…[it] reads like a pharmaceutical version of cops and robbers." Gerald’s wife, author Patricia Posner, works with him on all projects. https://geraldposner.substack.com/p/i-wrote-about-fentanyl-32-years-ago https://geraldposner.substack.com/p/fentanyl-gridlock https://lvof.org/ September 23, 2023 Washington D.C. Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Dominic Tierno has told stories through video since he was a child. As he grew into his teenage years, with the rise of social media, he realized he could use video to make an impact. Dominic won his first film festival award at the age of 16 for a motivational film called There Are No Limits (2013). Since then, Dominic has written, shot, directed, and edited 3 documentary films. His most recent is the internationally known Dead On Arrival (2021) which educates youth and parents about fentanyl. Dead On Arrival is currently being shown to millions of people in all 50 states, as well as in multiple Latin American countries. Dominic aims to bring light to darkness through raw and bold storytelling. His messaging has consistently been successful in effecting heart change in those who encounter it. Dominic’s desire is to use his God-given creative gifts to help set people free, save lives and change the world. Since 2018, Dominic has owned his own business serving clients in a variety of industries with multimedia content. Dominic has created countless videos used for online marketing, entertainment, and educational purposes, amassing hundreds of millions of views around the globe. He has also served as a creative consultant to individuals and organizations on a mission to find their identities and tell their stories. After over a decade of experience in various creative fields, Dominic has yet to lose his passion for telling powerful stories through video. His tenacity for excellence in multiple mediums has made him a versatile creative problem-solver. His commitment to glorify God in His work has enabled him to do more than he could have imagined as a young boy with a camera. Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

I founded APALD-Association of People Against Lethal Drugs as a result of losing my son Jordan Garmatter to Illicit Fentanyl on 4/6/19. My son suffered from Substance Use Disorder. He was drug free for 8 months when he developed a wisdom tooth growing in the wrong way. His face was swollen and in pain. He worked part time and only had Medicaid insurance so he couldn't get in to a dentist for two weeks out. Jordan continued to work with this extreme pain but with one week left to see the dentist he made the mistake to go get Drugs to relieve his pain. But what he got was almost 100% Fentanyl. Enough to kill 8 people in his system. My son didn't ask for Fentanyl. The drug dealer made that choice to give him that and didn't tell him it was Fentanyl. So when I got the toxicology report and found out it was Fentanyl that killed him I got very angry as I looked it up and discovered it came from China then to Mexico and across our borders. So I thought to myself, I have to do something! So I founded APALD. Since founding APALD we have had two national rallies. We are getting set for our 3rd Annual APALD Nationwide Rallies on May 6th. Our message is to bring awareness to Illicit Fentanyl which is the leading cause of death in America ages 18-45. These Fentanyl Poisonings must stop. We are losing a whole generation to this Lethal drug. Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Rebecca Kiesling lost not one - but both of her sons to a Fentanyl overdose. Now she is helping to educate parents and the government about the widespread poisoning of our youth. She has testified before Congress on the order crisis. She is an attorney and activist. Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Michael Fiore is the Outreach Coordinator for Voices for Awareness and Project Facing Fentanyl (Home of National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day, August 21). Michael is C.E.0. & Founder of Inspire 2 Inspire providing resources to addicts in recovery nationwide. Michael was born and raised in Brooklyn, N.Y.C., and now resides in California. Addiction was a common theme throughout Michael's life. His parents were both addicted. He lost two grandmothers to alcoholism, a grandfather and uncle to heroin. Michael's parents were good people. They provided for and loved him but were not always present in his life, making it easy for him to begin experimenting with drugs. Michael was looking for validation from the outside world because he didn't get it at home. He became a "people pleaser" in hopes that everyone would be his friend. Michael couldn't find value in himself, lying and manipulating to get people to like him. Using drugs allowed him to suppress those feelings. Drugs were the "solution to the problem”. Michael's drug use lasted 20 years. In 2009 Michael lost his father to aids. He lived in and out of jails and institutions. After 12 years of using high doses of Methadone, Michael detoxed off Methadone in 2021. Just a couple of weeks after detoxing, on Thanksgiving 2021, Michael's mother died from aids. Michael was living in treatment at the time. While in treatment, Michael started his nonprofit - Inspire 2 Inspire, working to support the recovery community. He is now a resource for addicts across the country. Mike graduated from treatment in May 2022. Twenty years of living in active addiction have given Mike a unique perspective. He has a "life education" that cannot be taught through formal education. Michael understands the value of a person's story and believes that "Our stories lie in what we overcome, not what we have done." His inspirational talks have become well-known in the recovery and fentanyl prevention communities. His high energy and positive attitude have been an asset to growing his advocacy portfolio. As Community Outreach Coordinator for Voices For Awareness Foundation and Project Facing Fentanyl, he successfully brings families affected by fentanyl poisoning together with people in recovery, building an army for his "1 Voice Project". Working in the recovery community has given him experience working with churches, nonprofits, the homeless, human trafficking victims, and domestic violence victims, and his job as a Group Facilitator. Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Jared Callahan is an award-winning, Emmy-nominated director / producer. He founded and runs People People Media, a production company based on a 95-acre farm in the San Francisco East Bay that specializes in personal and unique stories that help amplify voices and increase empathy. His work has been released through The New York Times, PBS, GQ Magazine, The Atlantic, ALTER, NoBudge, Short of the Week & Vimeo Staff Picks. He's had projects premiere at the best film festivals in the world, including Sundance, SXSW, Tribeca, Austin, Nashville, Palm Springs, Aspen, DOC NYC, and more. Jared served as one of the Atlanta Film Society’s Filmmakers in Residence, and produced The Driver is Red, which played over 100 festivals, won 43 awards, and qualified for the 2019 Academy Award in two categories. He has directed three feature documentary films, including Clean Slate. Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/