The Shield

What does it take to change the statistics in a county that ranked #1 in the nation for opioid overdoses?In this episode of The Shield, Executive Director Nichole sits down with Paige Britton, the founder and Executive Director of the Recovery Den in Walker County, Alabama. Paige shares her raw, first-hand experience of surviving active addiction in a rural community with virtually no resources, and how that fueled her mission to become the change she wanted to see.From patching a leaky roof she learned how to fix on YouTube, to building a 100% peer-run recovery board, Paige’s story is a masterclass in grassroots community building. We also discuss how the Recovery Den is breaking down stigmas, providing everything from business clothes to Narcan, and even bringing the first Recovery Cafe into the local sheriff's office.In this episode, we cover:The Walker County Crisis: The reality of living in a county deeply impacted by the opioid epidemic.The Recovery Den: How a free building and a lot of YouTube tutorials led to a life-saving central hub for recovery.Peer-Led Support: Why it is so critical that people seeking help are met by those with real lived experience.Upcoming Events: Details on the Overdose Awareness Walk (Aug 31) and the "Recovery Roundup" Sober Fest.Thank you to our Season 2 sponsor: The Children's Trust Fund of Alabama.🔗 Resources Mentioned:Connect with the Recovery Den and learn more about their resources.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Raising a teenager is the hardest job in the world, and there is no playbook for it.In this episode of The Shield, Executive Director Nichole sits down with Dannette Bivins, a licensed mental health therapist and the owner of Intentional Healing. Dannette specializes in family therapy and working with adolescents in the juvenile court system, particularly those dealing with problematic sexual behaviors like sexting.We dive deep into the reality of parenting teenagers today. Dannette breaks down why traditional discipline (like grounding) can sometimes backfire, how to separate typical teen angst from actual mental health red flags, and why you need to let go of your parenting guilt.In this episode, we cover:Family Therapy: Why treating the individual isn't enough if you don't treat the whole family system.Juvenile Court & Sexting: How education and early intervention change behavior better than punitive measures.Parenting Guilt: Why your teenager's mistakes are not a reflection of your failure as a caregiver.The LIFT Program: Everything you need to know about the Learning and Interventions for Families with Teens program (Sponsored by the Children's Trust Fund).Thank you to our Season 2 sponsor: The Children's Trust Fund of Alabama.🔗 Resources Mentioned:Connect with Dannette Bivins at Intentional Healing.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

What does it take to finally surrender after 22 years of addiction?In this episode of The Shield, Nichole sits down with the fierce and inspiring Misty Gomel. Misty is a Career and Life Coach at Hope Inspired Ministries (partnering with The Foundry) and the host of "The Fixed Fight" podcast.Misty shares her incredible journey from spending over two decades in active addiction to now helping others discover their hidden talents, build sparkling resumes, and step into their true purpose. We also tackle some of the hardest conversations in the recovery space: the reality of "hitting bottom," breaking codependency, and why we should focus on "choosing yourself today" rather than just counting the years.In this episode, we cover:Work Ready: How Hope Inspired Ministries helps people in recovery dream big again.The Turning Point: The two words a life coach said that changed Misty's life forever.Family Dynamics: Why you cannot force your loved one to hit rock bottom.The 3 F's of Recovery: Faith, Focus, and Fellowship.The Fixed Fight: Why we need to stop fighting and start surrendering.Thank you to our Season 2 sponsor: The Children's Trust Fund of Alabama.🔗 Resources Mentioned:Listen to Misty on The Fixed Fight podcast (Live Thursdays at 5:30 PM on TV Studios).Learn more about Hope Inspired Ministries & The Foundry: https://hopeinspiredministries.org/For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

What happens after you get sober? Quitting the substance is just the beginning; building a life you actually want to live is the next step.Welcome back to Season 2 of The Shield! Today, Nichole sits down with Heidi Moos, the founder of Creative Compass and a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist. Heidi shares her incredible journey from being a middle school teacher for the "quiet kids" to helping adults navigate life after addiction.We dive deep into the concept of "emotional sobriety," how to regulate your nervous system through creative play, and why Heidi launched "Art Lab"—a wildly popular, free community art class for people in recovery and their friends. (Spoiler: You don't have to be "good at art" to attend! )In this episode, we cover:Emotional Sobriety: How to self-soothe and level up once the substance is gone.The "Whole Student": Why good teachers change lives, and why Heidi created a "Fan Club" for the middle school misfits.The Evolution of Recovery: Moving away from "fixing losers" to treating the whole human.Art Lab: Why process matters more than the finished product, and how to join.A Hack for Anger: Heidi’s personal art technique for clearing the mind.Thank you to our Season 2 sponsor: The Children's Trust Fund of Alabama.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Electronic music, heavy bass, and... Narcan?In this episode of The Shield, Nichole sits down with Anthony Phillips, Sam, and Parker—the team behind Birmingham’s own Slinger Entertainment. Slinger isn't just throwing immersive EDM and bass music events; they are actively working to keep their community alive and safe.We discuss how Slinger partnered with APC to distribute over 600 Narcan cases to concertgoers. The guys also open up about navigating the entertainment industry's party culture, Parker's inspiring 6-year sobriety journey, and why harm reduction is the ultimate form of community building.In this episode, we cover:Why Slinger views Narcan like a "fire extinguisher".How Parker navigates the EDM scene while being 6 years sober.The genius behind "Fat Stack" events for local DJs.The secret to mixing a live band versus electronic music.Finding your community in Birmingham's Avondale and Woodlawn scenes.Thank you to our Season 2 sponsor: The Children's Trust Fund of Alabama.🔗 Resources Mentioned:Follow Slinger Entertainment on Instagram for upcoming shows (like May 30th at Saturn!).For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

How does the addiction crisis affect our oldest generations? You might be surprised.Welcome back to Season 2 of The Shield! In this episode, Nicole sits down with Morgan Rhodes, a program coordinator at the Area Agency on Aging (based out of the United Way of Central Alabama). Morgan pulls back the curtain on the unique mental health challenges older adults face and the incredible, free resources available to them and their families.We dive deep into the emotional toll of caregiving, the rising trend of grandparents raising grandchildren due to the opioid crisis, and how a new influx of opioid settlement dollars is providing a lifeline to these families. Plus, Morgan shares expert advice on how to protect seniors from rampant Medicare fraud and modern digital scams.In this episode, we cover:The transition from being a full-time caregiver to finding a new identity.How to have the difficult "giving up the car keys" conversation.The Older Relative Caregiver Program for those impacted by substance use.Why seniors are heavily targeted by Medicare and phishing scams.The upcoming free Fraud Summit on May 12th in Hoover.Thank you to our Season 2 sponsor: The Children's Trust Fund of Alabama.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

10 years ago, the End Addiction Walk was born out of a desperate need to take to the streets and let Birmingham know that help was available. Today, as we celebrate our 10th anniversary, we are preparing for our most impactful event yet—and our final one.Nicole and board member Alabama Cole (The Q 103.7) discuss the evolution of the walk, the new resources available this year (including HIV/Hep C screenings and peer support rows), and why it’s time for APC to graduate into a new chapter.Register now to join us for this historic event on April 25th, 2026.https://secure.swell.gives/ENDADDICTIONBHAM/tickets/#/ticketFor more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

What happens when you take healthcare out of the clinic and bring it directly to the streets?Welcome back to Season 2 of The Shield Podcast! In this episode, Nicole sits down with Cat Cruz (One Roof) and Dr. Craig Bourne (Cahaba Medical Care) to discuss a groundbreaking new initiative in Birmingham: Care for Our Journey. This interdisciplinary street medicine coalition combines housing navigation, addiction resources, and holistic medical care to meet the unhoused population exactly where they are.From administering joint injections out of a "soccer mom van" to navigating the complexities of the "savior complex" in social work, Cat and Craig pull back the curtain on what street outreach truly looks like. We discuss the realities of Housing First initiatives, the importance of building trust, and why true success might just mean helping someone get their state ID.In this episode, we cover:What is "Street Medicine" and why is it essential for Birmingham? Breaking the stereotype: Why some individuals choose to sleep rough while working full-time.How One Roof, Cahaba Medical Care, and Recovery Resource Center collaborate to reduce barriers to care.How to support the Care for Our Journey initiative.Thank you to our Season 2 sponsor: The Children's Trust Fund of Alabama.Resources:Learn more & view the Amazon Wishlist at One Roof: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1BSQCXXQCWBEB?ref_=wl_shareFor more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Welcome back to The Shield Podcast! Today we have our first-ever virtual guest: Matt Bitner-Glindzicz, the aerospace engineer and co-founder of nCase Tech.After his fiancée tragically lost a childhood friend to an opioid overdose simply because their life-saving Narcan was left at home, Matt realized there was a massive gap in overdose prevention. The medication is too bulky and highly stigmatized, resulting in 90% of owners leaving it behind. Matt left the space-tech industry to engineer a virtually indestructible, discreet, waterproof keychain case for Narcan.In this episode, Nichole and Matt discuss the tragic origins of nCase, the public health data proving its massive success, and how you can get one for yourself to help save lives at festivals, concerts, and in your daily life.In this episode, we cover:Why 90% of people leave their Narcan at home.The tragic event that sparked the creation of N-Case.Why the blister pack is terrible for carrying Naloxone.The engineering behind making a waterproof, crush-proof case.How the APC is distributing these in Birmingham.Thank you to our Season 2 sponsor: The Children's Trust Fund of Alabama.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Welcome back to Season 2 of The Shield! Today, we are joined by Carrie Buntain, former prosecutor and current Executive Director of the Family Resource Center, located right inside the Jefferson County Family Court.Carrie pulls back the curtain on the brutal realities of the juvenile justice system, intergenerational trauma, and why a child's life trajectory is often decided by the 3rd grade. But this isn't just a conversation about the problems—it's a masterclass in innovative solutions, including a brilliant story about how her team used a mock trial of rapper NBA YoungBoy to keep high-risk youth out of jail.In this episode, we discuss:The reality of prosecuting child abuse cases.Why Section 8 housing shifts are causing community violence.The direct link between truancy and future murder charges.How the FRC acts as a lifeline for families in crisis.Don't forget to Subscribe to The Shield for more incredible stories from the frontlines of mental health and substance use prevention!For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Welcome back to Season 2 of The Shield! We are kicking things off with a story of massive transformation—both personal and community-wide.In this episode, host Nicole reaches out to Frank Long, the Development Director at The Lovelady Center. Before Frank was helping lead the largest transitional center for women in the country, he was navigating the high-stakes world of Alabama politics. He wore the "Brooks Brothers suits" and worked for governors, but secretly, he was wearing a mask to hide a severe battle with addiction.Frank opens up about his journey from the State House to recovery, and takes us inside the "City Within a City". With over 560 women and 120 children living on-site , The Lovelady Center is doing more than just rehab—they are rebuilding lives through dental schools, cosmetology programs, and radical community.In this episode, we discuss:The Politician’s Mask: Frank’s struggle with high-functioning addiction while working in Montgomery politics.The "City Within a City": How The Lovelady Center feeds 1,950 meals a day and houses over 600 people.Breaking Barriers: Why the center includes a daycare, extensive medical care, and vocational schools.The Impossible Story: You have to hear the story of Jocelyn James—a Lovelady graduate who donated her kidney to the police officer who arrested her multiple times.Resources Mentioned:The Lovelady Center: https://www.loveladycenter.org/Children's Trust Fund of Alabama (Season Sponsor) Timestamps: 0:00 - Welcome to Season 2! 03:26 - Meet Frank Long 06:28 - The "Brooks Brothers" Mask: Addiction in Politics 11:58 - Finding The Lovelady Center 16:37 - A "City Within a City": The Lovelady Stats 28:21 - Why Dental Care Changes Lives 33:25 - The Miracle Story: Jocelyn James & The Kidney 36:24 - How to Get InvolvedFor more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

In the season finale of The Shield, Nichole sits down with George Cowgill, a true Birmingham native and the owner of the Black Market Bar + Grill. George reflects on his experience as a firefighter and how it shaped the way he approaches life, work, and community. He shares insights from his journey of building one of Birmingham’s most popular bar and grills, navigating the challenges of running a business, and making intentional choices that align with his values.Beyond the business, George talks about being straight-edge and supporting employees in recovery, creating a workplace built on respect and accountability. This episode highlights his life choices, showing how people can support a recovery community even while owning a bar and grill. Life is full of surprises—and George is only just getting started.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

In this episode of The Shield, Nichole sits down with Rosie Stafford Smith, Founder and CEO of Zadie & Co. — a nationally recognized consulting firm that helps nonprofit leaders and philanthropists reach their greatest potential.Although a Birmingham native, Rosie first connected with Nichole through St. Louis, where their paths crossed. She has since supported Nichole and the Addiction Prevention Coalition in strengthening their mission and impact through strategic planning.Tune in for a warm, insightful conversation about leadership, authenticity, and the power of surrounding yourself with people who make you better — both personally and professionally.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

On this episode of The Shield with Nichole Dawsey, Nichole is joined by Dr. Pauline Long and Dr. Jennifer Campbell, co-owners of MedsPLUS Consulting in Birmingham. With more than 20 years of experience working side by side, Dr. Pauline and Dr. Jennifer lead their pharmacy with a mission to provide personalized health support, especially for underserved communities.They share how MedsPLUS focuses on medication management, preventive care, and innovative tools like blister packs to help patients stay on track. Together, they discuss the importance of breaking down stigma, building transparency, and fostering trust in healthcare. From mental health resources to health education, their conversation highlights the power of community and the role of pharmacists in bridging gaps in care.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

In this episode, Nichole sits down with Liz Read to discuss The Renewal Project, a new nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating financial barriers to mental and behavioral health treatment for Alabama residents. Liz shares her journey to becoming the Executive Director, including her past experience leading Clearlee, a startup focused on creating new and innovative approaches to drug testing that were both dignified and encouraged accountability. They also talk about The Renewal Project’s upcoming soft launch this fall, the hard launch planned for January, and how the Addiction Prevention Coalition (APC) became a fiscal sponsor, aligning with APC’s mission to strengthen community well-being.Liz and Nichole also explore what The Renewal Project is looking for in partner providers and encourage community members to stay connected. For anyone who may need this type of support—or wants to help expand access to care—this conversation is an opportunity to learn how to stay informed, get involved, and be part of the movement to make treatment more accessible in Alabama.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

This week on The Shield, Nichole sits down with Micah Andrews, Executive Director of The Foundry, as they celebrate 55 years of helping people rebuild their lives. From its beginnings as a rescue mission to becoming a faith-based residential recovery program, The Foundry has evolved to meet people where they are. Micah opens up about his personal journey, the role faith has played in shaping his leadership, and what it takes to build and sustain a $10 million nonprofit. He also dives into how The Foundry helps people through counseling, education, employment readiness, and aftercare. Tune in for honest stories about second chances, repairing burned bridges, and the hope that comes from a place like The Foundry.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

For today’s episode, Nichole sits down with Gaines Johnson, president and creator of The World Baseball League. Inspired by conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, Gaines developed the league as a way to combine baseball and entertainment at an affordable price. He shares his passion for the sport, his vision for creating a community-centered experience, and how he hopes to make the game more accessible and exciting for families.Gaines also opens up about his diverse career paths and personal life experiences, including his decision to stop drinking for a clearer mind. He discusses the role alcohol plays in baseball culture, how he’s examined his own relationship with it, and how The World Baseball League is designed to be family-friendly while promoting a sober lifestyle.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

In this episode of The Shield, Nichole has a no-holds-barred conversation with Brandon Baez, founder of Active Recovery Outreach. Brandon Baez prides his work on recognizing that recovery is more than just abstaining from substances but fostering community support. He created Lets Go Do Sh!t, a social group for those in recovery or recovery curious. This group emphasizes living in the moment and that a life of sobriety goes beyond the walls of a recovery meeting. The group focuses on engaging with life - from paint ball to bowling. No matter the steps you follow, or your path to recovery, Active Recovery Outreach reduces stigma, fosters connection, and most importantly has fun! Together, Brandon and Nichole discuss his personal path to recovery, building relationships, and bringing the excitement to life without substance use. Check out Active Recovery Outreach or join the Lets Go Do Sh!t Facebook page to learn more, and listen to this episode of The Shield! For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

In this episode of The Shield, Nichole sits down with Katelyn Whitmore, Front of House Manager at Birmingham’s iconic Bottega. Although Katelyn graduated with a degree in education, she found her true passion in the hospitality industry—a fast-paced world where connection and experience come together through food and service.Katelyn opens up about the joys and challenges of working in restaurants, sharing how the pressures of the industry contributed to her struggle with substance use disorder. Thanks to a strong support system and the love of her family, she found a path to recovery and transformed her experience into a mission to help others.She co-founded PreShift, a support group designed for hospitality workers who are sober-curious, in recovery, or simply seeking a safe space to talk about the unique stresses of the industry.Join us for this inspiring and honest conversation about resilience, healing, and the power of community in an often demanding world.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Join us for a special episode as Nichole sits down with two inspiring students from Woodlawn High School to talk about the WOW Forum—which stands for Wisdom of Woodlawn. This youth-centered platform amplifies young voices through podcast episodes, creative workshops, and honest community dialogue. WOW explores personal and collective growth while celebrating the wisdom already present in our neighborhoods.In this meaningful conversation, Jacques and Brent open up about the challenges of being high school students today, their hopes for the future, and the importance of building stronger community connections. And in a fun twist, they turn the mic around and interview Nichole—putting her in the hot seat!For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

In this episode, we sit down with Alabama, syndicated radio personality and host of The Alabama Show on 103.7 The Q. Alabama shares how a simple email to APC turned into a meaningful partnership rooted in her personal experience—the overdose loss of her mother. She opens up about how this tragedy impacted her and how she uses her platform to amplify her mother's story, creating space for families and individuals affected by substance use disorder.Alabama also reflects on her path into radio and how making key mindset shifts has helped her grow—personally and professionally. These changes have shaped how she shows up in the world and deepened her ability to connect with others. She also shares what life looks like outside of the studio, including her love for animals. Tune in for an honest, powerful conversation about healing, purpose, and using your voice to build community.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

On this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Emma Kay, Associate Professor at UAB’s School of Nursing and someone who's doing incredible work at the intersection of HIV care, substance use, and harm reduction. She’s all about building real, lasting connections between healthcare providers and the people they serve—especially those facing stigma and barriers to care. From her roles at the UAB Center for AIDS Research and the Center for Addiction and Pain Prevention and Intervention, Dr. Kay is helping shift how the medical world supports people with HIV and substance use disorders.In our conversation, Dr. Kay breaks down what relational harm reduction really means—and how it can completely reshape healthcare. We talk about how her early experiences during an undergrad internship opened her eyes to the deep-rooted stigma around HIV, and how that pushed her toward work focused on empathy, trust, and patient-provider relationships. She shares how creating space for real, honest communication isn’t just ideal—it’s essential for better outcomes, especially for those often left out of the system.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Join us for a meaningful conversation with Jamella Stroud, a somatic yoga therapist and founder of Sacred Soma Yoga and Therapy. Jamella takes a calm, grounded approach to helping people heal, especially those dealing with trauma, mental health challenges, or growing up around Substance Use Disorder. Her work is all about reconnecting with the body and finding peace through movement and breath.We talk about her Exhale to Excel Yoga Program for students, her healing retreats in Bali, and what it means to truly listen to your body. Jamella reminds us that even in the chaos, there’s power in slowing down—and that sometimes, healing starts with simply remembering to breathe.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Elizabeth Norman, Executive Director of Fellowship House, has dedicated over 12 years to helping individuals prepare for recovery and rebuild their lives. Fellowship House is a nonprofit organization that provides comprehensive recovery programs for people struggling with alcoholism, drug addiction, and co-occurring mental health disorders. In this episode, Elizabeth shares the heart behind the work and the importance of meeting people where they are—offering support and resources that lay the foundation for long-term recovery.As Fellowship House approaches its 60th anniversary, Elizabeth reflects on her journey through the organization and how it has grown to meet the changing needs of the community. From starting her career there to becoming Executive Director, she discusses what it means to be part of this powerful mission and how others can get involved to support and expand its impact.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Dr. Tamika Holmes is the Founder and Executive Director of Community Care Development Network, a nonprofit rooted in her personal journey. Growing up with challenges that shaped her perspective, Dr. Holmes was inspired to create a space where families feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.In this episode, Dr. Holmes shares how her experiences led to building a strong community resource. She also discusses the services offered by Community Care Development Network and how the power of support and connection helped her become the leader she is today.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Shaheed Tawheed is a hip-hop artist, advocate, and co-founder of Knowledge, Rhythm, and Understanding (K.R.U.), a foundation that teaches children and teens the core elements of Hip Hop, including deejaying, emceeing, breakdancing, and graffiti art. Shaheed’s love for music and hip-hop, combined with his life experiences and strong family foundation, have shaped him into the man he is today—and he aims to inspire others through his work.Tune in as Shaheed discusses the importance of using the elements of Hip Hop to teach young people about mental health and positive coping skills. He also highlights how hip-hop is more than mainstream media's portrayal—it's a movement for advocacy and empowerment, showing the power of using your voice to make a difference.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Shane Herring, our Champion for the Cause, and Tim Cross, the CEO of Expedited Transport Agency (ETA), the presenting sponsor for the 2025 End Addiction Walk. In this episode, we discuss why they’re passionate about supporting this walk, their personal journeys through battling substance use disorder, and the impact of recovery. Tune in to hear how their dedication is shaping this year’s event and strengthening community connections in the fight against addiction.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Lindsay Gray is the Executive Director of Bundles of Hope, a nonprofit focused on providing essential resources to mothers and babies in need. What began as a mission to supply diapers has blossomed into a community-driven effort, with Lindsay’s passion and background in nursing at its core. Under her leadership, Bundles of Hope has grown to provide over 10,000,000 diapers, expanding its reach to offer other essential products based on direct feedback from the community.Tune in as Lindsay shares her story and discusses the significance of caring for both the mother and child, showing how Bundles of Hope’s work goes far beyond just providing diapers—it's about offering holistic support, building a stronger community, and ensuring mothers and babies have the essentials they need to thrive.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Kelly Greene is the Founder and Executive Director of Food for Our Journey, a nonprofit dedicated to providing food and essential services to the unhoused community. What started as a passion project quickly grew into a vital resource, thanks to Kelly’s faith, dedication, and background in youth ministry.Tune in as Kelly shares her journey and talks about the importance of taking the time to listen, understand, and build genuine relationships—because their work is about more than just food; it’s about community and compassion.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Dr. Angela Sullivan is an Assistant Professor and Assistant Dean for Admissions and Enrollment Management for UAB’s School of Public Health. She is also the Board President of the Alabama Suicide Prevention and Resources Coalition (ASPARC), an organization that provides suicide prevention trainings statewide. Angela is a strong advocate for suicide prevention, and through her research, she works to learn more about the factors that lead to suicide and how to prevent it. As part of her advocacy for suicide prevention, she is also passionate about helping others change the language they use when discussing suicide. To learn more about ASPARC: https://asparc.org/For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Join us for a conversation with Homewood’s Fire Chief, Brandon Broadhead, who has been vital to the implementation of APC's ONEbox initiative in Central Alabama! Chief Broadhead discusses how he became interested in becoming a first responder and his passion for helping others.  In addition to being an advocate for the accessibility of Naloxone, Chief Broadhead is a strong advocate for mental health wellness for not only his first responders, but for all citizens. APC connected with Chief Broadhead through the implementation of APC’s ONEbox initiative. Chief Broadhead was pivotal in making the initiative successful, and has worked to install more than 40 ONEboxes in the City of Homewood as an addition to their AED program.To learn more about ONEbox visit https://apcbham.org/onebox/ For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Join us as Dr. Sherri Huff with Birmingham City Schools (BCS) discusses her role in launching wellness initiatives in BCS and helping promote the mental health and wellbeing of all BCS students. In addition to being an APC Board Member, Dr. Huff also serves as the Program Specialist for Birmingham City Schools’ Physical, Health, and Driver’s Education programs. Dr Huff is a staunch advocate for mental health wellness for BCS’ students. When it comes to implementing prevention education and mental health education in BCS, Dr. Huff has been pivotal. She discusses why she thinks addressing mental health in BSC’s students is important, and the potential for all BCS students to be successful. For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Join us as APC’s new Executive Director, Nichole Dawsey, interviews APC’s former Executive Director, Carie Wimberly, ahead of her formal retirement from APC. Since November 2020, Carie Wimberly has served as the Executive Director of APC. Since then, APC has rapidly expanded its staff, programs, and community impact. Carie walks us through her previous career, how she found her way to APC, and her plans after her retirement from APC. In addition, Carie discusses her legacy at APC, and how proud she is of how APC has become an authentic and trusted community partner. For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Join us as the Founder and Executive Director of Khairi and Little Angels Memorial (KLA Memorial), Tomeka Walker, discusses the events that led to her creating KLA Memorial and how the organization supports mothers and families, who have lost an infant. After the experience of losing her infant son, Khairi, in May 2014, Tomeka began Khairi and Little Angels Memorial as an organization to support women and families, who have experienced the loss of an infant between 20 weeks and 12 months old. In addition to supporting mothers and families, who are low income, with the burial of their infant, they also support the mental health of mothers and the family through the grief process. In 2025, KLA Memorial plans to expand their services to include more education on maternal mental health and child birth education. Visit klamemorial.org to learn more about KLA Memorial.  Visit https://www.alabamanonprofits.org/2024-short-films to watch the short film on KLA Memorial, which was featured at the Alabama Association of Non-Profits' film festival. For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Lige’ is the Director of Community Engagement with Girls, Inc. of Central Alabama. Throughout her career, she has worked in various areas of prevention and mental health wellness. With her prior experience, she was led to Girls, Inc. where she fosters community collaboration, while also providing prevention services through mentoring programs, teaching girls life skills, and promoting health and wellness. Girls, Inc. of Central Alabama is an affiliate of Girl, Inc., an international organization that inspires  all girls to be Strong, Smart and Bold. If you’re interested in participating in Giving Tree or volunteering with Girls, Inc. of Central Alabama, contact the Volunteer and Development Manager, Mary Nix Hardin at [email protected] Link to the Girls, Inc site: https://girlsinccentral-al.org/For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Anthony is a local business owner and is well known within Birmingham’s service industry. Anthony joins Nichole to discuss how he has been sober from alcohol for 2.5 years while still actively working in the service industry, which historically, has had high rates of substance use. Anthony also tells us about an initiative he started to support those working in the service industry, who are in recovery or are seeking recovery. This initiative was launched for those working the service industry to gather and discuss recovery, which is usually a unique journey for people working in hospitality and the service industry. For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Join us for the first episode of The Shield featuring Cheryl Dodson, the Executive Director of the Alabama Suicide Prevention and Resource Coalition (ASPARC)!   Cheryl was featured on the popular 2017 podcast, S-Town, which followed her friend, John, who died by suicide. The podcast served as a catalyst, and Cheryl found her way into the field of suicide prevention. Since then, Cheryl has been pivotal to promoting suicide prevention in the State of Alabama by conducting QPR (Question, Persuade and Refer) trainings throughout Alabama. QPR is the mental health version of CPR, and it equips people with the skills to ask someone if they are having thoughts of suicide and how to connect them to help. If you are interested in getting yourself or a group trained in QPR, then, please visit ASPARC’s website https://asparc.org/ or https://apctrainings.org/ If you need support, please contact 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, by call or text. For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Join us as we get to know APC’s new Deputy Director, Nichole Dawsey, and learn more about how she found her way into the field of prevention and how she came to APC! Also, stay tuned for a special announcement from APC’s Executive Director, Carie Wimberly.  In July 2024, Nichole Dawsey moved to Birmingham from St. Louis, Missouri. Before coming to APC, she worked in various roles at PreventEd, a prevention provider in St. Louis. Most recently, she served as PreventEd’s Executive Director for six years. Nichole shares with us her love for prevention, and her passion for working with students outside of the formal classroom setting, which she discovered while working as a teacher in Louisiana. Throughout the episode, we learn how Nichole’s professional and personal experiences led her to the prevention field.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Join us as Judge Maria Fortune tells us about presiding over Jefferson County Drug Court and her role in helping Drug Court participants be successful! Judge Maria Fortune serves as a Criminal District Court Judge, presiding over Drug Court in Jefferson County. Judge Fortune grew up in Denver, Colorado, and from an early age, she knew that she wanted a career in law. As a child, she observed disparities in the criminal justice system, and wanted to become a judge, who listened to and looked at the defendant and their world beyond their criminal charges.  Before she began presiding over Drug Court, she practiced law in various capacities in Colorado, Washington, D.C., and Alabama. Today, Judge Fortune works to help people get their lives back on track after they have entered the criminal justice system due to their substance use. Judge Fortune is popular in the Birmingham area and among the recovery community for helping hundreds of people live a happy, healthy, and productive life without substances. For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Join us as Tyler Harris discusses his recovery journey and the work he does at Unbound Grace to support those in or seeking recovery.  In this episode, Tyler Harris tells us about growing up in Birmingham and attending Auburn University. Tyler’s substance use escalated while he was in college, which led to concerning health and legal consequences. Today, Tyler is thriving in his recovery, and he is using his experience and faith to help others seeking help and support for their substance use. Tyler works with Unbound Grace, a Birmingham based organization that supports people seeking recovery and helps them find hope in the wilderness of addiction.  To learn more about Unbound Grace: https://www.unboundgrace.life/groups John Steakley’s book referenced in the episode: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1959099736?ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_FZQC8PMD6ZYHBEB4RJXY&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_FZQC8PMD6ZYHBEB4RJXY&social_share=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_FZQC8PMD6ZYHBEB4RJXYFor more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

In this episode, Lauren Sisler joins APC’s Executive Director, Carie Wimberly, and APC’s podcast producer, Ronnie Gatrey, to review End Addiction Bham 2024.  End Addiction Bham is an annual event that APC hosts each spring to promote awareness of substance misuse, provide hope, and provide connection. Each year this event draws several thousand people. Many participants are in recovery, some have lost a loved one to substance use, and others simply want to support eliminating the stigma of mental health and substance use. In addition to discussing their favorite parts of the End Addiction Bham festivities, our hosts also discuss how EAB has grown and changed over the past 8 years, and all the work that goes on behind the scenes to make EAB happen flawlessly.  Did you miss EAB 2024? It’s not too late to donate: https://endaddictionbham.swell.gives/For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Join us as Shane Herring discusses his experience with losing his sister to a substance use disorder, the impact it had on his life, and how he is using his own experiences and recovery journey to positively impact lives. Shane Herring is the Manger of Clinical Operations for UAB Medicine’s Center for Psychiatric Medicine and the Program Director for UAB Medicine’s Addiction Scholars Program.  In addition to serving in multiple roles with UAB, he is also a board member for the Addiction Prevention Coalition and a person in long-term recovery. Shane tells us about how the grief of losing his sister impacted him and his family, and how it was a contributing factor to his substance use. After a medical emergency, Shane was inspired to join the medical field by a nurse, who was supportive of people with substance use disorders. Today, Shane works to lead initiatives that support those with substance use disorders. He also works to educate healthcare professionals on the specific needs of those with substance use disorders and how to provide non-stigmatizing, supportive medical care. For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

oin us as Jasmine Gilbert tells us about the work she does with local students and the implementation of prevention efforts in Birmingham. Jasmine, a  Birmingham native and an alumna of Birmingham City Schools, discusses her love for the City of Birmingham and her determination of to enrich the lives of Birmingham residents. Jasmine is currently the Program Director for APC’s SAMHSA grant, Strategic Prevention Framework-Partnerships for Success.  In addition to working with a team to coordinate substance use prevention efforts within the City of Birmingham, she also coordinates APC’s student programs. Jasmine shares with us her love for working with students and watching them develop into young leaders within their schools and their community. For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Join us as Candace Rachel, the Rapid Response Coordinator for the Jefferson County Department of Health’s Overdose Data to Action (OD2A) initiative, tells us about the work that is being done to combat opioid overdoses in Alabama. Candace, who is jokingly known as “Narcan Nancy” by many people she has trained on how to administer Naloxone, discusses how she became interested in working with people, who are less resourced. She also discusses her love for APC’s pop-up resource fairs, which are hosted in areas with high overdose rates and few resources. Pop-up resource fairs are designed to meet people where they are and take resources directly to people, who need them the most. Candace also discusses the reduction in the perception of risk of adolescent substance use, and the importance of parents talking to their children about substance use.  Naloxone (Narcan) is now available over the counter, but it can still be obtained for free through the Jefferson County Department of Health for Alabama residents. https://jcdh.org/SitePages/Programs-Services/CommunityHealth/SubstanceUseandAddiction/NaloxoneFentanylTraining.aspxFor more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Join us as Adam Schniper and Janae Pinson from Compact tell us about Compact's substance use prevention initiatives in Shelby County, Alabama, and how Compact has become a trusted, vital community resource. In 2016, Compact was established by the Shelby County District Attorney with the goal of reducing the rate of substance use in Shelby County. Since its inception, Compact has served as a resource for families, schools, and students. Today, Compact primarily focuses on supporting juveniles that are at a high risk for substance use or may already be using substances. Compact provides family intervention, community education, and connection to resources. Compact works to serve as an ally for individuals and families, and to empower and guide them in the right direction to be healthy and successful.Janae Pinson serves as the Community Resource Coordinator. She is a former educator, who is passionate about identifying the needs of the community and educating the community to prevent substance use. Adam Schniper has been with Compact since it was established, and he works to implement prevention initiatives within the City of Pelham and Pelham City Schools. Adam is passionate about preventing the onset of substance use in adolescents, and supporting individuals and families to seek support and recovery.To learn more or to contact Compact visit https://www.compact2020.com/ Janae Pinson: [email protected] Schniper: [email protected]#addiction #prevention #substanceabuseFor more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Join us as Bronwyn McInturff, an APC board member and a social worker with nearly 25 years of experience working in the substance use field, discusses stigma, the evolution of substance use treatment, and treatment limitations due to funding. Bronwyn also tells us about how she was introduced to the mental health field by her mother, who is also a helping professional. She discusses what it was like working with clients at UAB Medicine’s Addiction Recovery Program and being inspired by watching people transform their lives from being in active addiction to thriving in recovery. Although Bronwyn formally retired in 2023, she could not stay away from her passion for too long. She now works part-time providing individual counseling services to clients.To contact or learn more about UAB Medicine’s Addiction Recovery Program, call 205-975-8524 or visit their website.For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Join us for a conversation with Emily Herring, LICSW, as she discusses the work of Fairfield High School’s INFOCUS chapter and the positive impact she is having on the lives of her students!  Since 2020, Emily Herring, or Ms. Emily as she is commonly known by her students and APC staff, has worked with Fairfield City Schools to improve the mental health and wellbeing of her students. Ms. Emily is the Mental Health Coordinator for Fairfield City Schools and the facilitator for the INFOCUS chapter at Fairfield High School. Ms. Emily grew up in Austin, Texas, and moved to Alabama to attend Auburn University. While at Auburn, she immediately fell in love with the social work profession. Through her work, Ms. Emily grew to love working with under-resourced populations to help improve their lives and wellbeing. In 2023, Ms. Emily was awarded the Difference Maker award, which was presented by the FOCUS Program, for her wonderful work with the students at Fairfield High School. Ms. Emily and the Fairfield High School INFOCUS group have worked to implement mental health resource fairs and other initiatives in their school and the neighboring middle school.  In 2023, their hard work was featured in a story by WBRC.    INFOCUS groups are student led and adult guided groups within high schools, which focus on implementing positive initiatives on mental health and other catalyst issues that often lead to substance use in their school and community. INFOCUS aims to support student leaders, who have a lasting, positive influence on their peers and in their environment. To learn more about INFOCUS: https://apcbham.org/who-we-are/how-we-help/students-2/To learn more about the INFOCUS group’s impact: https://www.wbrc.com/video/2023/05/08/fairfield-city-schools-focusing-students-mental-health/For more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Join us as Dave Urech tells us about what it is like being a parent of a child with a substance use disorder and his passion for working with families with a similar experience. Dave Urech, a Michigan native, moved to Alabama about a decade ago, and he and his wife, Laura, became engaged in a local support group for parents of a child with a substance use disorder. Both Dave and his wife had been impacted by their son’s substance use disorder and were seeking additional support. Soon, Dave and his wife began leading a family support group, which is designed to support parents and family members of a loved one with a substance use disorder through education and connection. Dave’s group meets at Asbury Church (Birmingham, Alabama) on Monday evenings from 6:30 to 8:00 PM. In addition to his group, APC’s Executive Director, Carie, and her husband, Art, have a family support group that meets at the Moore Institute on Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 8:00 PM. To learn more about the groups, contact Dave (717-341-1918) or Art (205-616-8867). More information can be found on APC’s website: https://apcbham.org/who-we-are/how-we-help/family-members-support/#addiction #prevention #familyFor more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Join us as Dr. John Dantzler discusses how he started his career in educational research and program evaluation, but found his way into the field of substance use. Dr. Dantzler discusses the importance of affordable and effective substance use treatment options for everyone. Dr. John Dantzler is a professor within UAB’s Department of Psychiatry, the Vice Chair of Substance Abuse Programs at UAB, and the Executive Director of UAB Beacon Recovery and UAB’s Community Justice programs. In addition to his many other roles, Dr. Dantzler serves on APC’s Executive Board.  Thanks to his multiple decades of work in the substance use field, Dr. Dantzler has a unique view of how treatment has changed over the years. One of the changes that has occurred is how people view substance use, and how they have started supporting the Brain Disease Model of Addiction. While stigma still exists, the shift to viewing addiction as a disease has been pivotal to helping those with substance use disorders obtain treatment services. While stigma has started to decrease in recent years, barriers to treatment still exist.  One of the main barriers is funding. UAB Beacon is a successful treatment program that works to eliminate that barrier. UAB Beacon Recovery is an accessible treatment option for those in Central Alabama. UAB Beacon Recovery operates on a sliding scale, which bases the cost of treatment based on the client’s income. UAB Beacon Recovery also operates a clinic, known as their Bridge Clinic, which allows patients to see a physician, case manager, and receive an ASAM assessment. The clinic was established to bridge the gaps for those seeking treatment, and reduce the difficulty of navigating the healthcare system to obtain treatment services. Link to UAB Beacon: https://www.uabmedicine.org/specialties/beacon-recovery-program/ Link to UAB’s Community Justice programs: https://www.uab.edu/medicine/substanceabuse/aboutFor more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition

Join us as Liz Read discusses finding out about her loved one’s substance use disorder, and how this discovery and led to her creating Clearlee, an app that provides dignified drug testing. Liz Read, a native of Birmingham, Alabama, had her world turned upside down when she discovered that a loved one was suffering from a substance use disorder. This discovery impacted her whole family.  During the time of reestablishing the a foundation to move forward with their lives, Liz’ family member was required to complete drug tests. Liz noted the obstacles and complexity of the drug testing process. This observation sparked her interest in improving the process. In November 2020, Liz presented her concept at Alabama Launchpad’s competition, and much to her surprise, she was the winner of the Concept Stage.Clearlee is an app that provides families and organizations with empowering accountability through dignified drug testing.  Clearlee provides the person being tested with the necessary testing supplies and detailed instructions, and the person requesting the test receives reliable, real-time information. In addition to working with individual families, Clearlee works with sober living facilities, treatment centers, and employers to provide accountability testing to their clients. You can contact Liz at [email protected], and for general questions about Clearlee you can contact at [email protected]. https://clearlee.comFor more content, make sure to check us out on Instagram and YouTube!https://www.instagram.com/addictionpreventioncoalition/https://www.youtube.com/@AddictionCoalition