In this enlightening episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall sits down with Alisa Howard to explore the vital role of Community Health Workers (CHWs) in behavioral health, with a particular focus on addressing opioid use disorder. With compassion and clarity, Alisa underscores the power of lived experience in reducing stigma, building trust, and humanizing the healthcare system.
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.
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.
In this powerful episode of The NOCE Dose, we dive deep into the stigma surrounding Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and its profound impact on People Who Use Drugs (PWUD) communities seeking treatment. Hosted by Bianca D. McCall, LMFT, this Listening Session brings together a diverse panel of experts and advocates dedicated to fostering recovery-friendly spaces in both the workplace and community.
In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall engages in a deep conversation with Kayla Shannon, a licensed clinical social worker, about the opioid response programming in Nevada. They discuss the importance of collaboration among professionals, the unique trauma profiles in Nevada communities, and the integration of holistic treatments like yoga into medically assisted treatment (MAT). Kayla shares insights on how trauma-informed care can empower individuals to share their stories and the benefits of providing comprehensive support in correctional facilities. The episode concludes with a call to action for community engagement and support in recovery efforts.
In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall sits down with Kim Nischik, a board-certified physician assistant, to discuss the opioid response in Nevada and the vital role of mentorship in addiction treatment. Reflecting on insights from a recent listening session, they explore strategies for educating patients about medication options, overcoming barriers to access, and fostering a supportive environment for recovery. Kim shares her experiences on the frontlines of healthcare, highlighting the importance of connectedness in care and the commitment of Northern Nevada Hopes to both patients and providers. This episode underscores the power of education, advocacy, and mentorship in strengthening the addiction treatment landscape.
In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall sits down with Dr. Krista Hales to discuss Nevada’s opioid response programming and the critical role of community connections in behavioral health. Reflecting on insights from a recent listening session, they explore the challenges of maintaining motivation in recovery, the importance of psychological safety for treatment providers, and the necessity of cultural responsiveness in substance use treatment. Dr. Hales emphasizes the power of teaching individuals to find comfort in discomfort and shares personal experiences on resilience, advocacy, and self-care in the field. This conversation serves as a powerful reminder of the need for trust, persistence, and a supportive community in addressing substance use disorders.
In this insightful conversation, Bianca D. McCall and Erik Schoen discuss the challenges and opportunities in addressing opioid use disorder and mental health in rural Nevada. They explore the importance of community engagement, pro-social activities, and the need for a shift in mental health models to better serve the unique needs of rural populations. Erik shares his experiences and insights on building infrastructure, fostering connections, and the existential aspects of health and wellness. In this conversation, Erik Schoen and Bianca D. McCall discuss the importance of building trust in rural communities, the role of lived experience in treatment, and the integration of holistic approaches and technology in mental health care. They emphasize the need for cultural competence, the empowerment of community members, and the significance of mentorship in fostering growth within these communities. The dialogue highlights the challenges and opportunities in bridging the gap between traditional treatment methods and innovative, community-driven solutions.
In our third Listening Session, The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall leads insightful conversations with experts on the opioid response in Nevada. Through discussions with clinicians, social workers, and healthcare professionals, this episode explores the importance of community collaboration, trauma-informed care, and holistic approaches in addiction treatment. Guests share their experiences in addressing barriers to care, fostering psychological safety in the workforce, and mentoring the next generation of providers. From integrating holistic therapies like yoga in medically assisted treatment (MAT) to navigating the complexities of cultural responsiveness, this episode highlights the power of connection, persistence, and education in improving addiction recovery efforts.
In this conversation, Bianca D. McCall and Darcy Patterson discuss the complexities of substance use disorders, the impact of personal loss, and the importance of community support and advocacy. Darcy shares her personal journey with her daughter’s struggles with addiction and her subsequent advocacy work with Wake Up Nevada. The discussion emphasizes the need for education, harm reduction strategies, and the importance of self-care for families affected by substance use. The conversation highlights the transformation from silence to advocacy and the critical role of connection in recovery.
In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall engages with Katarina Pulver, Health Educator II, Office of Disease Surveillance Division of Disease Surveillance and Control. They discuss the critical role of health educators in bridging the gap between research and practice in harm reduction, the importance of community outreach, and the nuances between activism and advocacy. Katarina shares insights on self-care, preventing burnout, and the significance of representation in the recovery process. The conversation highlights the need for continuous learning and the importance of meeting individuals where they are in their journey.
Donald Griffin’s journey led him to the last house on Black Wall Street, a symbolic place where he began to heal from the bumps and bruises of life. Having overcome the grip of alcohol and the scars left by addiction, he found clarity and purpose as his mind and body healed. Three years into his sobriety, Donald became acutely aware of the growing issues among the youth in Reno, Nevada—rising overdoses, homelessness, school dropouts, and suicides. Reflecting on the role models and influences
In this episode of The NOCE Dose podcast, host Bianca D. McCall engages with Bethany Wilkins, Education and Advocacy Committee Chair for Northern Nevada Harm Reduction Alliance and a leader in harm reduction efforts in Nevada. They discuss the profound impact of lived experience in the field, the challenges of navigating grief and loss, and the importance of self-care and boundaries for those working in high-stress environments. The conversation also explores the complexities of identity within harm reduction work, the necessity of building relationships in rural communities, and the critical need for sustainability in harm reduction initiatives. Bethany shares her insights on how to effectively collaborate with rural areas and the importance of humility and community engagement in these efforts.
Join us for a compelling listening session that dives deep into the critical topics of fentanyl test strip education, preparedness for overdose emergencies, and the evolution of harm reduction strategies. As we explore the rising tide of synthetic opioids, we’ll hear firsthand experiences and insights from experts in the field.
In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall is joined by Jillian Anderson, MA, MFT, LADC, PMH-C, to discuss the multifaceted challenges surrounding maternal health, particularly in the context of substance use and mental health. They explore the impact of political decisions on healthcare access, the stigma faced by mothers dealing with substance use, and the importance of cultural diversity and socioeconomic factors in providing effective support. The discussion emphasizes the need for community connection, harm reduction strategies, and the significance of addressing adverse childhood experiences to foster healthier family dynamics. Jillian shares her motivations for working in this field and highlights the importance of de-stigmatizing perinatal mental health issues to improve access to care.
In this episode, host Bianca D. McCall interviews Angel Lash, MS, LADC, CPC-I, Coordinator, Nevada 8th Judicial District Court, a mental health professional working within the justice system and leader of the innovative Lima Program in Las Vegas. They discuss Angel’s work in coordinating a program that partners with the Metropolitan Police Department in Las Vegas to help individuals experiencing homelessness, substance misuse, and mental health issues. They also discuss the importance of connection, empathy, and representation in serving vulnerable populations. Angel shares insights on how professionals can better serve the chronically unhoused population with substance use and mental health needs, emphasizing the need for communication, compassion, and cultural sensitivity.
In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca McCall dives into an insightful conversation with Christina Boyd, LSCSW, LCAC, about the power of collaboration in opioid response and behavioral health. Fresh off a NOCE listening session, Christina shares her expertise on motivational interviewing, breaking down professional silos, and the importance of treating the whole person in healthcare. Together, they explore how professionals from diverse fields—judicial, medical, behavioral—must come together to address the complexities of co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. From practical advice for professionals to the importance of self-care, this episode offers actionable insights for those committed to improving opioid response and creating lasting change. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on community, collaboration, and care.
Welcome to the debut episode of The NOCE Dose: The Opioid Crisis Unplugged. In this episode, we explore Prevention and Diversion with our esteemed panelists; Angel Lash, Christina Boyd, and Jillian Anderson. This insightful discussion will uncover the personal and professional experiences shaping the landscape of opioid use treatment, prevention, and diversion programs in Nevada.
Host Bianca D. McCall introduces The NOCE Dose, offering a sneak peak into Season 1 and the exploration of opioid crisis challenges, solutions, and stories from frontline professionals.