This week on Tackling the Opioid Epidemic, we sit down with Kayla DeCant, Project Director of Prevention and Outreach at Lewis University. We discuss the realities of sexual assault on campus, how students can look out for one another through effective prevention strategies, and where to find support. We also share key resources for anyone impacted by sexual assault.

Click here to access resources:

https://www.advocatesforyouth.org/campaigns/know-your-ix/ 

https://endrapeoncampus.org/

 In this episode, we’re excited to have on our very own Prescription Playbook Team, featuring Prevention Specialists Erika Hahn, Sarah Gruden, and Leah Naraine, along with Digital Marketing Specialist Allison Bautista. Together, we dive into all things Drug Take Back Day, what it is, how to spread the word in our communities, why it matters, and how safe disposal protects us all. We’ll also share resources and tips for finding local drop-off locations. Tune in to learn more! 

This week on the podcast, Prevention Specialist Erika sits down with Meghan Hanrahan. She is an athletic trainer, dancer, and her longtime friend. Meghan shares the vital role athletic trainers play in sports and recovery, and highlights why strong communication across an athlete’s support system is key to healing and success.

 Join Danielle Heffernan, Certified Recovery Support Specialist & Coordinator for DuPage Recovery Organization, and our Prevention Specialist Sarah Gruden as they dive deep into the powerful conversation around stigma, recovery, and hope. Let’s change the narrative, one story at a time. 

In this week’s episode, we are joined by Dr. Holly Gueyer, the author of Ending the Crisis and an Addiction Medicine Specialist at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Arizona. We dive into her remarkable career journey and the impactful work she does in supporting patients with complex illnesses, particularly in hospital settings. We also explore her insights on the opioid epidemic. While the challenges vary by state, Dr. Gueyer highlights the similarities in the approaches needed to protect individuals and communities from the impact of substance use disorder.

In this episode of Tackling the Opioid Epidemic, our host and Prevention Specialist, Erika, speaks with Jordyn Hughes, a fellow Prevention Specialist working on a separate project at OMNI. Jordyn shares her journey from growing up immersed in sports to the determination and focus that fueled her high school years, ultimately leading her to compete at the collegiate level. She also opens up about the challenges and realities of transitioning from being an athlete to adulthood. The two dive into their shared experiences as college athletes, offering valuable insights and advice to students currently pursuing the same dream. Jordyn completed her undergraduate studies at Eastern Illinois University and earned her graduate degree at Murray State University in Kentucky.

In this episode, we sit down with Ambrosia, Project Coordinator, and Terri, Client Services Team Lead, from Circle of Care. They discuss the critical connection between grief and substance use disorder, as well as the unique services their program offers. Tune in to learn more about how the Circle of Care is supporting children, youth, and families impacted by grief related to substance use disorder through their statewide program.

Check out this podcast episode where we talk to Liz, the Assistant Director of Substance Misuse Prevention at Health Promotion and Wellness (HPaW), shares her journey and expertise. Liz joined HPaW in January 2023, where she oversees vital programs like BASICS (Brief Alcohol Screening Intervention for College Students), and manages AOD (alcohol and other drug) programs such as Red Watch Band, Opioid Overdose Prevention, Naloxone Training, and Drinking Culture Close-Up. Liz’s student affairs journey began at UIC, where she worked as a resident assistant and orientation leader. Her passion for helping college students make healthier decisions regarding substance use is driven by her background in public health. Don't miss her insights on supporting students' well-being and substance misuse prevention!

In this episode of Tackling the Opioid Epidemic, we sit down with Sarah Richardson, FGC, and a key member of the Sangamon County ROSC. Sarah dives into the concept of ROSC (Recovery-Oriented Systems of Care), explaining its vital role in fostering community collaboration and driving meaningful change in the fight to end the opioid epidemic. Don’t miss this insightful conversation on how local, coordinated efforts can make a lasting impact.

Our Prevention Specialist Armando, talks to Wendy Lambert, the CEO of Step Recovery Center. Wendy talks about how what initially started as something she had posted on  has resulted in amazing contributions  such as community work, housing, and support for those who have Substance Use Disorder. She has made amazing contributions in her community.