Airing Addiction

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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.

New England Recovery Center


    • May 8, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • monthly NEW EPISODES
    • 48m AVG DURATION
    • 73 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Airing Addiction

    Miracle Mamas: Support for Mothers in Recovery

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2025 48:11


    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.

    Brittany's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 7, 2025 49:08


    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!

    Introducing GAAP Recovery

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2025 63:31


    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.

    Recovery Coaching with John Marhefka

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 21, 2024 57:01


    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.

    Matt Gear's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 22, 2024 54:45


    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!

    Ralph's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 11, 2024 46:22


    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!

    How Peer Recovery Centers Create Community - with Kim Patterson and Ladonne Rogers

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2024 45:51


    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!

    Finding Purpose and Motivation for Recovery - Kathleen's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2024 45:25


    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!

    Airing Addiction: The Impact of a Safe and Stable Living Environment

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2024 44:01


    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.

    Airing Addiction: How Health and Well-Being are Connected to Recovery

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2024 45:51


    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).

    Airing Addiction: Responding to Overdose with Mobile Treatment Access

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2024 45:18


    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.

    Medications for Addiction in Corrections with Dr. Sharif Nankoe

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2024 42:44


    On this episode of Airing Addiction:Sharif Nankoe, MD, MPA, MA, FASAM is the Chief Medical Director for Department of Corrections (DOC) Programs at Spectrum Health Systems, a nonprofit behavioral health organization based in Massachusetts.  His area of expertise is the treatment of opioid use disorder in jails and prisons, and he has been involved in the establishment of over 20 correctional MOUD programs.  Dr. Nankoe provides oversight, direction, and implementation of medical operations for the Massachusetts DOC MOUD Programs.  Previously Dr. Nankoe served as the Medical Director for the Vermont DOC Medications for Addiction Treatment Program, and worked in the Vermont Hub and Spoke system as the Medical Director of two Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs) and two office-based opioid treatment clinics.  He is Board Certified in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine.Join Jesse, Lisa, and Dr. Nankoe on this episode of Airing Addiction!

    Danny's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2024 48:13


    Danny is a person in recovery originally from Oklahoma who relocated to Massachusetts three years ago. While his recovery journey began in August of 2000, his first experience with treatment was at an eating disorder unit at 15 years old. He continues his recovery journey in Worcester and in his new hometown of Charlton, MA where he and his husband of 20 years reside. Through practicing recovery principles, he has been able to become a data scientist and is currently an AI software product lead in the professional services field.Join Jesse and Lisa on this month's episode of Airing Addiction!

    Jim's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2024 47:06


    Jim is a Recovery Support Assistant at Alyssa's Place in Gardner, MA and will be sharing his recovery story with the hope that it will help others on their own journey to recovery.Join Jesse and Lisa as Jim shares his experience, only on Airing Addiction!

    Chris's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2024 37:59


    A Worcester native, Chris has experienced many triumphs and hardships throughout this life and is hoping by sharing his story he will help inspire and educate others on the often-misunderstood world of #mentalhealth. Tune in to listen to Chris's story with your hosts Jesse and Lisa. Only on Airing Addiction!

    Craig Bellemare's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2024 48:58


    On this episode of Airing Addiction:Craig has been in recovery for 8 months and is originally from the Worcester area. Craig has been working at Perennial Recovery to give the opportunity to help others as an effort to give back to those who helped him on his recovery journey.Join Jesse and Lisa to hear Craig's story, only on Airing Addiction!

    Jarrett Krosoczka's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 15, 2024 44:07


    On this episode of Airing Addiction:Jarrett J. Krosoczka, known since boyhood as "JJK," is the New York Times bestselling author/illustrator behind more than forty books for young readers, including his wildly popular Lunch Lady graphic novels, select volumes of the Star Wars™: Jedi Academy series, and Hey, Kiddo, which was a National Book Award Finalist. Krosoczka creates books with humor, heart, and deep respect for his young readers—qualities that have made his titles perennial favorites on the bookshelves of homes, libraries, and bookstores over the past twenty years.Join Jesse and Lisa to listen to Jarrett's story! Only on Airing Addiction.

    Peer Recovery - Research Perspective with Dr. Corrie Vilsaint

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2024 51:23


    On this episode of Airing Addiction:Dr. Corrie Vilsaint serves as the Associate Director of Recovery Health Equity at the MGH Recovery Research Institute and Instructor at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Vilsaint is a community psychologist and an international speaker. Her research endeavors have focused on reducing recovery-related discrimination, building recovery capital, and the effectiveness of recovery support services.Join Jesse, Lisa, and Dr. Corrie on this episode of Airing Addiction!

    Airing Addiction: Ken Feldstein's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2023 51:05


    On this episode:Ken has been a certified Recovery Coach at Signature Healthcare's OBAT program for the past five years. His primary work involves engaging clients in community-based recovery to complement their MOUD treatment and strengthening his deeply established and new agency partnerships within the greater Brockton community.Join Jesse and Lisa to hear Ken's story. Only on Airing Addiction!

    Alumni Spotlight and Recovery Stories of Mathieu Miller and Dylan McGovern

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2023 55:13


    Mathieu Miller has been in recovery since 8/31/21. He is the president of the Spectrum Alumni association and has been the events chair for the Massachusetts state convention of young people in Alcoholics Anonymous for the year 2023. Mathieu works as an Operations Manager in the emergency department with people struggling with mental/behavioral/ and addiction issues. Mathieu works his recovery in AA with a sponsor and is a sponsor to others. Mathieu is also active in commitments to different facilities and meetings around Massachusetts and other New England states. Recovery, fellowship, family, and friends are extremely important to Mathieu and encourages other to recognize that recovery can also be about having fun and he is finally able to live his life the way it was meant to be lived!Dylan McGovernDylan in recovery from alcohol addiction and is the Co-Chair for the spectrum residential alumni. Dylan is passionate about recovery, because he is passionate about life. Dylan is dedicated to helping others gain for themselves what he has gained over the last few years through this journey and shares that Recovery saved my life!Come tune in! Hear Dylan and Mathieu's story, only on Airing Addiction.

    What to expect in Substance Use Treatment - New England Recovery Center

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 18, 2023 45:59


    On this episode of Airing Addiction:Program directors from the New England Recovery Center will go in-depth to how they provide inpatient treatment to those seeking a true holistic approach to recovery. Jesse and Lisa will see what sets the program apart from others as they are joined by Executive Director Marybeth Adams, Clinical Supervisor Alexandria Supernor, and Program Director Sarah Stewart.Marybeth Adams, MS LMHC, is the Executive Director of Inpatient Services for New England Recovery Center and is also a private therapist, and serves as an Adjunct Professor for the Mental Health Counseling Graduate Program.Alexandria Supernor, MA, is the Clinical Supervisor at New England Recovery Center ATS. A graduate of Assumption College, she holds experience working with individuals with complex trauma, as well as those who struggle with substance abuse issues. Allie's areas of specialty are anxiety, depression, trauma treatment, LGBTQIA-related issues, and substance use disorders. Sarah Stewart, LMHC, MA, is the Program Director at New England Recovery Center detox and residential program. Sarah holds experience working with individuals who struggle with substance abuse as well as having a background in family and child counseling.Join Jesse and Lisa to hear all about inpatient treatment on this episode of Airing Addiction.

    How System Implementation Impacts Those with SUD in the Community

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2023 48:58


    On this episode of Airing Addiction, Dr. Madden and Dr. Altice explain how System Implementation Impacts those with SUD in the Community.Dr. Madden's work is focused on identifying treatment gaps in substance abuse/mental health treatment and improving both access to services and retention in treatment, with an emphasis on inclusion of marginalized persons and integration with primary care/treatment for infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and HCV. She is affiliated with Yale School of Medicine, Internal Medicine - AIDS. Dr. Altice is a Professor of Medicine, Epidemiology and Public Health at Yale University where he serves as the Director of Clinical and Community Research, the Community Health Care Van and the HIV in Prisons Program.Please join Jesse and Lisa to hear expert opinions and experience, only on Airing Addiction.

    Peer Recovery with Athena Haddon and Billy Parks

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 20, 2023 54:43


    On this episode of Airing Addiction:Athena Haddon, Spectrum's executive director of peer services and recovery support and Billy Parks, assistant director of recovery and peer support at Advocates, Inc. will be sitting down with Lisa and Jesse to discuss the important role peer support plays in recovery.Home | Moar Recovery (moar-recovery.org) 

    Chris Curtis' Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 14, 2023 45:12


    On this episode of Airing Addiction:Chris has worked in sports radio in Boston since 2002 and is currently an executive producer at WEEI Boston's Sports Original. Join Lisa Blanchard and Jesse Chaison as they sit down with Chris to discuss his recovery journey this #RecoveryMonth

    Parent-Child Relationships with Jessica Griffin

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2023 45:45


    Dr. Griffin is a clinical and forensic psychologist with specialties in childhood trauma, resilience, and relationships.She developed the UMass Child Trauma Training Center (now known as Lifeline For Kids) which has trained over 100,000 professionals in trauma, trauma-informed care, and trauma sensitive practices. She is a co-author of a book by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Childhood Trauma and Resilience, A Practical Guide, a go-to resource on childhood trauma for pediatrics. Recently, Dr. Griffin also authored a book for couples in romantic relationships, Relationship Rx: Prescriptions for Lasting Love and Deeper Connection.Join Jesse and Lisa on this episode of Airing Addiction as they learn from Jessica's experience.

    Kerianne's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2023 48:34


    Keriann Caccavaro is a woman in recovery who has struggled with direction and belonging in life. As Keriann began her personal journey away from substance use, she now has found her passion and purpose in helping others do the same. She is now community advocate, and recovery coach. She also owns and operates LIV Recovery Homes which provides sober living for women located in Lowell, Mass.Please join Lisa on this episode of Airing Addiction!

    Pride Month Episode - Rebecca Durkee's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2023 45:54


    Rebecca Capri Durkee founded Gender Identity Support Services for Transgenders (GISST) in Boston, Massachusetts in 1994. Rebecca drew hundreds of community members and providers together for three events calling for a day of remembrance. She is a recipient of the AIDS Action Committee Community Recognition Award, and a member of the Massachusetts Prevention Planning Group.Join Jesse and Lisa on this episode of Airing Addiction to hear Rebecca's story.

    Matt Ganem's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2023 58:13


    On this episode of Airing Addiction:Matt Ganem describes himself as an addict in recovery, father, poet and well-known figure in the recovery community. He's also CEO and owner of @Aftermath Recovery Treatment Center.https://www.facebook.com/MattGanemPoet/Join Jesse and Lisa to hear Matt's story, only on Airing Addiction!

    Rob Demeo's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2023 45:31


    Rob Demeo is a person in long term recovery who has been working in the field of addiction now supporting others. Rob is currently the Community Outreach Coordinator for Sunrise Detox, Evolve Recovery and the Counseling Center. Please join Jesse and Lisa to hear Rob's story. Only on Airing Addiction!

    Real Talk TV Episode with Darryl Buchannan

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2023 50:00


    On  this episode of Airing Addiction:Jesse and Lisa are reunited on Real Talk TV with Darryl Buchannan. This episode puts the spotlight on Jesse and Lisa as they share what lead them to devote their lives to treating addiction. Darryl Buchannan is a published author and host of Real Talk TV.  He uses his life experience to inform and educate the youth population about the perils of substance use and the criminal justice system.Join us to hear Jesse and Lisa's story. Only on Airing Addiction!

    Darryl Buchannan's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2023 54:18


    On this episode of Airing Addiction:Darryl Buchannan is a published author and host of TV talk show called Real Talk TV.  He uses his life experience to inform and educate the youth population about the perils of substance abuse and the criminal justice system.Join Jesse and Lisa to hear Darryl's story, only on Airing Addiction.

    Derek's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 25, 2023 45:57


    On this episode of Airing Addiction:Derek's family struggled with substance use disorder, and Derek soon found himself going down a similar path. Though he achieved and has maintained sobriety since 2003, Derek ultimately lost both his father and sister to alcoholism in 2020 and 2021. To learn more about Derek's story and how he was able to sustain recovery despite these challenges, tune in at 10 a.m. on Wednesday at the link provided.Join Jesse and Lisa to hear Derek's story on Airing Addiction.

    Teddy Labonte's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 21, 2022 46:17


    On this episode of Airing Addiction:Teddy Labonte will share his experience with addiction through Alcoholics Anonymous and how he came to experience a "second life" after overcoming his addiction.Join Jesse and Lisa to hear Teddy's story. Only on Airing Addiction!

    Mario's Recovery Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 22, 2022 59:37


    On this episode of Airing Addiction:Mario has a broad understanding of harm reduction and the “low-threshold model” that improves access to care for people impacted by addiction. Mario has been involved in starting and opening the Engagement Center, a welcoming, low-threshold daytime space for individuals navigating homelessness and substance use near the intersection of Melnea Cass and Mass Ave.Join Jesse and Lisa to hear Mario's story, only on Airing Addiction!

    Michelle Dunn's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 26, 2022 48:27


    On this episode of Airing Addiction:Michelle Dunn has both personal and professional experience in addiction and recovery. Michelle currently has been employed with GAAMHA as the Director of Community Engagement- Substance Use Services since July 2017.  Michelle is president and founder of the AED Foundation Inc., as a response to her daughter passing away from a heroin overdose in 2013. She along with the AED board of directors opened a “pop up” Peer Recovery Center to try and fill a large gap in North Central Massachusetts. Additionally, Michelle has been a facilitator for Learn to Cope parent support group, a grief group H.A.L.O. 15 for those who lost a loved one due to SUD, a steering committee member of the Gardner Community Action Team, as well as sitting on various advisory boards and committees.  Michelle is involved in opiate overdose awareness on a local, state and National level with Fed Up Rally in DC since its inception and attended national summits.  On a local level, Michelle has provided education and support for schools, businesses, and is a strong advocate for SUD programming and funding. Please join Jesse, Lisa, and Michelle on this episode of Airing Addiction!

    Celebrating Recovery Month

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2022 46:21


    On this episode of Airing Addiction:Jesse and Lisa dive deep and share the importance and significance of Recovery Month with our listeners. We dive in to the impact recovery has in the broader scope of family and one's immediate surroundings. Jesse shares his lived experience with recovery and Lisa provides a clinical perspective on why recovery is worth dedicating an entire month to celebrating.Please join Jesse and Lisa on this episode of Airing Addiction. 

    Michelle's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2022 46:40


    On this episode: Michelle Simons has been in long term recovery since the year 2000 and has worked in the addiction field for the past 19 years.  She obtained her Masters in Counseling Psychology from Salem State University in 2016. Currently she teaches the Recovery Coach Academy and various addiction counseling courses for North Shore Community College. Michelle also works as a clinical and nonclinical RC supervisor for several agencies. Michelle's current path of recovery has involved practicing and teaching Sahaja Yoga Meditation and has a large network of fellow meditators and mentors she leans on all over the world.  Michelle's initial foundation of recovery started in residential treatment and involved 12 step fellowships for which she has the utmost respect for.  Through the various recovery stages Michelle has been through over the years she has since learned to incorporate the understanding that there is no wrong door to recovery and wholeheartedly honors all recovery pathways.Please join Lisa on this episode of Airing Addiction!

    Mark's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2022 45:26


    In honor of Recovery Month, our next episode of Airing Addiction features a special guest. Mark, a former client of Spectrum Health Systems, was born and raised in Haverhill, MA and graduated from Haverhill High School in 2005. Sober since 2015, he joins us Thursday to share more about himself and his journey through addiction and recovery. Please join Jesse and Lisa on this episode of Airing Addiction!

    Overdose Awareness Episode

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2022 51:19


    This episode of Airing Addiction focuses on Overdose Awareness Day with our guests:Dr. Christian Williams, Assistant Professor of Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies at Assumption University will be sharing her research and clinical perspective on the impact of overdose loss on clinicians and the treatment community, and joining her will be Lauren and Jimmy McRae, Co-Founders and Director of Macka's Mission to discuss her own experience as a family member who lost her brother.Join Jesse and Lisa on this episode Airing Addiction!

    Addiction in the Academic Space

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 27, 2022 59:00


    This episode of Airing Addiction will discuss addiction and recovery in the academic space. Featuring guests Lynn Leblanc-Marrone John Pratico, and James DiReda.Dr. DiReda holds a dual Ph.D. in Sociology and Social Work from Boston University, and a Masters' degree in Social Work from the University of Connecticut who has over thirty years of direct clinical experience and consulting in the field of addictions.Lynn is the Executive Director of Inpatient & Outpatient Clinical Services for Spectrum Health Systems. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor with more than 35 years of clinical and supervisory experience. She is also an adjunct faculty member at area colleges providing instruction in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Addiction Treatment, and Culturally Responsive Counseling. Lynn holds a Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology from Assumption College.Dr. John Pratico is the Dean of Behavioral and Mental Health Programs at Anna Maria College. He received his Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Anna Maria College, his Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies from Lesley University, and his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Massachusetts School of Professional Psychology. He completed his postdoctoral fellowship at MetroWest Neuropsychology in Westborough, MA. He has worked with children, adolescents and adults in community health centers, psychiatric hospitals, schools, and private practice settings across the Commonwealth.Please join Jesse and Lisa on this episode of Airing Addiction!

    Pride Month Episode with Beck Gee-Cohen, MA LADC

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2022 45:11


    Beck is originally from the Los Angeles Area and has found his way back to LA after about 20 years of living in various places across the US. Beck has a passion for working with the LGBTQ+ community and has years of experience doing so. He has written articles and papers directly addressing the need for training staff regarding LGBTQ+ communities. Join Jesse and Lisa on this episode of Airing Addiction!

    Dr. Zlatina Kostova - Mental Health Awareness Month

    Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2022 55:51


    On this episode of Airing Addiction, Jesse and Lisa discuss bothMindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy as well as ways both substance use providers and patients can integrate mindfulness into their lives and recovery with our guest Zlatina Kostova, PhDJoin us live on this episode of Airing Addiction.

    Nurses' Week 2022 with Michael Oliveri and Brandice French

    Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2022 47:23


    Mr. Oliveri is a published third-generation nurse with over forty years of nursing experience. He has worked in world-renowned hospitals in Boston, Shriners Burns, and Brigham and Women's Hospital. Ms. French has been dedicated to serving those most-at-need individuals for over a decade. She is currently the Director of Inpatient Nursing and a member of the board of directors for the Montachusett Recovery Foundation.Please join Jesse and Lisa as we celebrate Nurses' Week only on Airing Addiction!

    Mike Welsch's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2022 48:41


    On this month's Alcohol Awareness episode, former Marine Mike Welsch shares how his addiction to alcohol forever changed his life. His loss of his leg has not stopped him from swimming the entire length of Lake Willoughby, running triathlons, and raising more than $36,000 for Dana Farber and the Jimmy Fund during a cycling marathon.Hear Mikes inspiring story only on Airing Addiction.

    Social Work - The Recovery Process with Amy Kasik and Dr. Taylor Hall

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2022 45:25


    In this episode, Lisa will be exploring the impact of social work, and why a career in addiction social work is rewarding. Our guests from Spectrum Health Systems Clinical Supervisor Amy Kasik and Assistant Professor Dr. Taylor Hall from Bridgewater State University's School of Social Work share their wide-ranging experience in their field and why it is so important for success in recovery.Only on Airing Addiction!

    Magnolia Family Support with Maureen Cavanagh

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 22, 2022 45:57


    On this episode of Airing Addiction, we will dive into the Magnolia FAST family support program that Maureen herself trained Spectrum and NERC in last year and has been running weekly for the past 8 months.Come learn about this support with Jesse and Lisa, why supporting families and loved ones is so critical to recovery, as well as what makes this group different and what families and supports need as they move through addiction and recovery with their loved ones.Only on Airing Addiction.

    AJ's Recovery Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 25, 2022 50:41


    Join us as Lisa and Jesse sit down with AJ Frost to hear his moving story of battling addiction. Only on Airing Addiction!

    Richard Cassidy's Recovery Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 11, 2022 52:51


    Richard Cassidy began his journey of recovery on December 2 2019. On December 16, 2019 Richard checked himself into rehab and has maintained recovery ever since. Richard is now founder and success coach of NutritiveAfitness and creator of the upcoming Vlog cast A Thousand Roads To Recovery. Richard lives a life of gratitude as he states that his life long journey has prepared him to help others improve their overall lifestyle and wellbeing.Join Jesse and Lisa to hear Richard's inspiring story on this episode of Airing Addiction!Be sure to check out The Key Nutrition Podcast!https://pca.st/podcast/74af35c0-ab0d-0136-7b93-27f978dac4db

    Mike Miles Story and Recovery During The Holidays

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2021 53:01


    Mike has many years of experience in addiction, law enforcement and corrections. He's currently a Director at Therapy Services, a counseling practice in Chelmsford, Massachusetts and Host of the Friends in Recovery podcast. Join Jesse and Lisa on this episode of Airing Addiction where they sit down with Mike to talk about his recovery journey and recovery during the holidays.

    Dr. James Broadhurst and 20 Years of Addiction Treatment Experience

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2021 47:55


    Airing Addiction with Dr. James Broadhurst who has been a physician with Spectrum for 20 years, 5 years of which he served as Medical Director (2002-2009). Dr Broadhurst has over 40 years of medical practice experience, 20 years of addiction treatment experience and became board certified in addiction medicine in 2010. In addition to addiction treatment, Dr Broadhurst specializes in primary care and sports medicine.  Join us as we talk with Dr. Broadhurst about the evolution of addiction treatment and reflect on his time at Spectrum!

    Katie O'Leary's Recovery Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2021 45:25


    On this episode of Airing Addiction, our guest Katie O'Leary of Director of Recovery Support Services at North Suffolk Mental Health Association will be sharing her own road to recovery.Join Cathy, Lisa, and Jesse to hear Katie's story.

    director recovery story katie o recovery support services

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