Airing Addiction: Miracle Mamas
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.
Airing Addiction - Ralphs Story
Ralph's journey began as a client at the New England Recovery Center in December 2021 to one of our Recovery Specialists - a powerful testament to the transformative power of dedication and support. His story underscores the impact of embracing recovery and the strength found in perseverance.
🎧 Listen to Ralph's latest Airing Addiction episode and explore more inspiring stories: https://shorturl.at/VANjI
Airing Addiction: Introducing GAAP Recovery
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.
Airing Addiction: Recovery Coaching with
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 on this episode of Airing Addiction.
Airing Addiction: Matt Geer's Story
Matt Geer is a Recovery Coach in Southbridge, MA for Spectrum Health Systems. He is here to talk about all things recovery.
Join Jesse and Lisa on this episode of Airing Addiction!
Airing Addiction: Ralph's Story
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!
Airing Addiction: The Impact of a Safe and Stable Living Environment
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 individuals with mental health and/or substance use disorders 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 disorders.
Airing Addiction: How Peer Recovery Centers Create Community - with Kim Patterson and Ladonne Rogers
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 th
Airing Addiction: Finding Purpose and Motivation for Recovery - Kathleen's Story
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: Responding to Overdose with Mobile Treatment Access
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.
Airing Addiction: Medications for Addiction in Corrections - Dr. Sharif Nankoe
On this episode of Airing Addiction:
Dr. Nankoe has extensive knowledge and experience in the field of Substance use treatment inside correction facilities. During his role as Medical Director at an opioid treatment program in Vermont, Dr. Nankoe helped bring MOUD treatment inside of all six Vermont state prisons. With years of experience in the field, Dr. Nankoe now serves as the Medical Director for the Spectrum corrections division to bring similar groundbreaking MOUD treatment programs across the state of Massachusetts.
Dr. Nankoe has a passion for serving the underserved and believes providing substance use treatment is a critical need.
Join Jesse, Lisa, and Dr. Nankoe on this episode of Airing Addiction!
Airing Addiction: Pride Month Episode - Danny's Story
Join Jesse and Lisa on this month's episode of Airing Addiction!
Airing Addiction: Jim's Story
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!
Airing Addiction: Chris's Story
On this episode of Airing Addiction:
Tune in to listen to Chris's story with your hosts Jesse and Lisa.
Only on Airing Addiction!
Airing Addiction: Craig Bellemare's Story
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!
Airing Addiction- Jarrett Krosoczka
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.
Airing Addiction: With Dr. Corrie Vilsaint
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
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!
Airing Addiction - Dylan McGovern's Story
On this episode of Airing Addiction, Dylan McGovern shares his recovery story with Jesse and Lisa.
Come tune in! Hear Dylan's story only on Airing Addiction.
Airing Addiction: New England Recovery Center Staff Panel Disussion
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.
Airing Addiction: How System Implementation Impacts those with SUD in the Community
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.
Airing Addiction: Peer Recovery Support
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.
Airing Addiction: Dr. Griffin on Childhood Trauma
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.
Airing Addiction: Chris Curtis's Story
On this episode, we listen to Chris Curtis as he shares his recovery story with us.
Join Jesse and Lisa on this episode of Airing Addiction!
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Thank you to everyone who joined the Recovery Exchange in Lynn at Red Rock Park and Everyday Miracles in Worcester last Thursday to observe International Overdose Awareness Day.
We appreciate the community support in raising awareness for such an important topic and honoring loved ones we have lost to opioid overdose.
As of this week, naloxone (Narcan) is available over the counter. Consider learning how to administer this opioid overdose reversal medication and carrying a dose with you to help prevent an unnecessary fatality.
Airing Addiction - Kerianne's Story
Keriann Caccavaro is a woman in recovery, 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!
Airing Addiction with Rebecca Durkee
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.
Airing Addiction with Matt Ganem
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.
Join Jesse and Lisa to hear Matt's story, only on Airing Addiction!
Airing Addiction with Rob Demeo
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!
Airing Addiction: Darryl's Story
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.
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Our dedicated staff is here to help individuals and their families overcome addiction and reclaim their lives.
NERC recognizes that recovery requires an individualized approach and offers a variety of tools and flexible treatment options to find the right approach for everyone’s needs.
Learn more about our services by giving us a call at 1-877-MyRehab or by visiting our website. https://buff.ly/3DvnV46
Airing Addiction: Derek's Story
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.
Airing Addiction: Teddy's Story
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!
Airing Addiction: Mario's Recovery Story
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
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!
Ralph's story
On this episode of Airing Addiction:
Ralph was a client at New England Recovery Center last December 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 in the field, helping others just like he was helped. Ralph has a powerful story of experience, strength and hope to share.
Please join Jesse and Lisa to hear Ralph's story.
Michelle's Story
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 Jesse and Lisa on this episode of Airing Addiction!
Recovery Month Episode - Mark's Story
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 - Airing Addiction
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 McRae, Co-Founder 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!
