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.
Guest:
Daniel has been in long-term recovery since July of 2002, and has been married to his amazing wife, Kristy, since 2004. Together, they’re raising three incredible daughters who keep life exciting. Daniel is a dedicated advocate, sharing hope wherever he can. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University, where he was a member of the collegiate recovery program, and fell in love with the world of recovery support. That passion led him to the University of Nevada, Reno, where he earned his master’s degree in Human Development Family Sciences, specializing in Addiction Treatment Services. Daniel helped build and now directs Nevada’s Recovery and Prevention program (NRAP) at the University of Nevada, Reno, where he also teaches addiction treatment studies. He’s been recognized as Faculty of the Year (twice!) for his commitment to students and recovery education. Previously, he served as Director of Recovery and National Outreach at Transforming Youth Recovery, advocating for recovery nationwide.
He’s served on multiple local and national advisory boards, working to expand recovery resources and break the stigma of addiction. Whether in a classroom, on a board, or just in conversation, Daniel’s goal is simple—help more people see that recovery is possible.
Resources:
- Listening Session: Recovery Continuum & Recurrence Prevention Strategies
- Nevada’s Recovery & Prevention
- Contact: Daniel Fred – dfred@unr.edu
- Nevada Naloxone/Narcan Finder
- Overdose education and harm reduction program offered for free on campus to the University community
