In this episode of The NOCE Dose podcast, host Bianca D. McCall welcomes Daniel Fred, Director of the Nevada Recovery and Prevention (NRAP) Program, to explore the evolving landscape of opioid recovery. Together, they dive into insights from a recent listening session, focusing on how creating fun, inclusive spaces—especially on campuses—can foster stronger recovery communities. Daniel emphasizes that "recovery is recovery is recovery," reminding listeners that presence and belief are essential to healing. The conversation highlights the importance of removing shame from the recovery process, using student-friendly language, and believing in the collective power of community. Daniel and Bianca also discuss how recovery doesn't have to be fearful or isolating; instead, it can be joyful, intentional, and deeply connected. This episode is a powerful reminder that the "F-word" in recovery is fun—and that celebrating life is a vital part of healing.

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.

In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall speaks with Teresa Sands about the complexities of recovery, stigma, and harm reduction. Through powerful reflections, Teresa challenges traditional narratives around addiction, emphasizing the importance of asking individuals what they truly want from recovery. The discussion delves into key themes such as sex work stigma, the war on drugs as a war on people, and the need for culturally responsive pathways to recovery. Together, they explore the value of lived experience in shaping effective care, the role of transparency and accountability in treatment, and the idea that abstinence is not the only path to healing. This episode encourages listeners, both professionals and those in recovery, to rethink societal approaches to substance use and embrace a more inclusive, compassionate model of support.