News

In this episode, I explore how pop culture, through movies, television, music, and social media, shapes the way we understand drug use and overdose. I highlight how these portrayals often simplify or distort reality, reinforcing stereotypes and stigma. The episode also examines how these narratives influence public opinion, policy responses, and individuals’ willingness to seek…

In this episode, I talk about how social media shapes the way people understand drugs, addiction, and overdose, highlighting both the risks and opportunities of these platforms. I break down how online spaces can spread stigma and misinformation, but also provide support, community, and harm-reduction information for people navigating substance use. I also explore how…

In this episode, I talk about how news media shapes the stories we hear about drugs and overdose, and why that matters for public understanding and policy. I break down how media coverage determines which overdose stories get attention, how people and communities are portrayed, and how narratives can be amplified, even when they aren’t…

In this episode, I introduce listeners to Season 14 of Aced It, and I talk about how stigma shapes the way we understand drugs, overdose, and addiction, and why the stories we tell about these issues matter. I break down what stigma is, how it operates, and how it influences everything from help -seeking to…

In the final episode this season, I explore holistic, non-pharmacological approaches to addressing opioid use disorder and overdose, including acupuncture, yoga, mindfulness-based therapies, nutrition, and exercise. I highlight evidence showing how these practices support traditional treatments by reducing stress, improving emotional regulation, alleviating pain, and lowering relapse risk. Download the one-pager (PDF). This project was…

In this episode, I explore how long-acting injectable medications, like Vivitrol, Sublocade, and Brixadi, are reshaping treatment for opioid use disorder by reducing daily dosing burdens and improving treatment adherence. I review evidence on their clinical effectiveness, patient experiences, and the practical and ethical considerations involved in implementing these medications in both community and carceral…

In this episode, I examine how digital and telehealth tools, from smartphone apps and wearable sensors to virtual overdose-monitoring services, are being used to address opioid use disorder and overdose risk. I explore what the research says about their effectiveness, how people who use drugs perceive them, and the challenges of making these technologies accessible,…

In this episode, I explore the growing scientific interest in psychedelic-assisted therapy as a potential treatment for substance use disorders, particularly opioid addiction. I trace the historical roots of psychedelic therapy, review emerging evidence on substances like lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), ketamine, psilocybin, and ibogaine, and highlight the challenges of translating promising findings into safe,…

In this episode, I talk about the emerging practice of safer supply and prescribed alternatives, highlighting how Canada has implemented these programs to reduce overdose deaths and support people who use drugs. I walk listeners through evidence on outcomes, participant and provider perspectives, and key lessons for U.S. states beginning to explore safer supply models.…