Sagely Speaking

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono welcomes Sarah Murphy, a first-generation bison rancher from Durango, Colorado, who transitioned from a corporate marketing career to ranching in 2016 with just 15 bison. In their conversation, Murphy discusses the challenges and rewards of her new lifestyle, emphasizing the vital role community support plays in her journey. She highlights the ecological benefits of bison in regenerative farming, noting how they enhance soil health and biodiversity. Murphy advocates for sustainable agriculture that is both economically viable and environmentally impactful, aiming to inspire younger generations to pursue ranching. Her story reflects themes of hard work, resilience, and the importance of reconnecting with nature, ultimately underscoring the potential for collaborative efforts to foster a sustainable future.

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono welcomes Scott Strode, the founder of The Phoenix who shares his inspiring journey of recovery and discusses the mission of his nonprofit organization. The Phoenix provides a free, sober, and active community for individuals overcoming addiction, emphasizing the transformative power of community support. Scott highlights the importance of addressing relapse with compassion rather than stigma and advocates for innovative approaches to tackle challenges in the addiction and mental health fields.

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono welcomes Michael Lopéz-Alegría, the chief astronaut at Axiom Space, who shares his inspiring journey from aspiring astronaut to seasoned space traveler. He discusses his experiences aboard various spacecraft, the emotional aspects of space travel, and the vital role of training in managing fear and uncertainty. Michael Lopéz-Alegría highlights Axiom Space's mission to build a commercial space station, with plans for its first module set to launch in 2026, and the development of next-generation spacesuits for NASA. He reflects on how witnessing the moon landings fueled his passion for space and emphasizes the importance of collaboration with industries beyond traditional space sectors to foster innovation. The conversation also addresses the political landscape surrounding space funding and the bipartisan commitment to maintaining leadership in human spaceflight, offering valuable insights into both Michael Lopéz-Alegría's personal journey and Axiom Space’s ambitious goals.

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono welcomes psychology Professor Robin Fivush who discusses how family storytelling strengthens connection, memory, and identity. She and Mary explores its role in processing experiences, fostering communication, shaping generational identities, and its cultural and healing significance, especially in dementia and community settings.

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono welcomes Marisa Wayne, who reflects on her father, John Wayne, his legacy, and their work with the John Wayne Cancer Foundation. Marisa shares fond memories, including family traditions, her father’s humor, and their time together on their boat. She discusses the foundation’s efforts in cancer research, prevention, and treatment, as well as the creation of the John Wayne Museum. Marisa also opens up about fan mail sent to her father, her passion for cooking and her fitness industry involvement. Throughout, she highlights the family’s values of kindness, respect, and faith.

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono welcomes Dr. Steve Gelfand, a retired rheumatologist who discusses the opioid crisis, covering its history, medical education's role, addiction stigma, fentanyl's rise, and the need for education and open dialogue on drug use.

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono welcomes Emmy-winning actress Eileen Davidson who shares her journey from starting her acting career in her late teens to becoming a beloved figure in daytime television, particularly known for her role as Ashley Abbott on The Young and the Restless. Eileen reflects on the hurdles she overcame, including the emotional toll of rejection and the mentors who helped her stay grounded, emphasizing the importance of preparation, personal growth, and integrity in an industry that often prioritizes drama over peace. She also discusses her creative ventures beyond acting, such as writing, which she now considers her first love, and her surprising shift into hypnotherapy to manage fears like flying. In conversation with Mary Bono, Eileen addresses the challenges women face in balancing career, family, and personal life in the fast-paced entertainment industry, exploring the evolving landscape for women post-#MeToo and the significant impact of social media on public perception. Sharing lessons learned from her time on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, she highlights the necessity of staying true to oneself despite external pressures. With humor and wisdom, Eileen offers valuable advice for aspiring women in the industry, stressing the importance of a strong support system and embracing rejection as a crucial part of the growth process. This heartfelt discussion serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength required to navigate the complexities women face in their personal and professional lives.

Sagely Speaking With Mary Bono welcomes Cammie Wolf Rice, a dedicated philanthropist and activist. Cammie shares her personal story of loss from the opioid crisis and her journey of resilience. She is the founder of the Life Care Specialist Program, which provides vital support and education to hospital patients about opioid use. Cammie stresses the importance of prevention, education, and community mobilization in combating substance misuse and the fentanyl crisis. Additionally, she collaborates with Usher's Foundation to empower youth and discusses her new book, "The Flight," which aims to inspire others through her experiences. Join Mary and Cammie as they delve into these crucial topics, highlighting hope and community action in the fight against opioid misuse.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Scott D. Payne, a retired FBI agent with 28 years of law enforcement experience, who shares insights on the evolving challenges in policing. He discusses the dynamic nature of smuggling, emphasizing that demand influences supply and methods, while expressing concern about the impact of open borders on national security. Payne highlights ongoing challenges in interagency collaboration since 9/11 and notes the evolution of domestic terrorism into a more dangerous form called accelerationism. As one of only about 600 certified undercover agents in the FBI, he reflects on the rarity and emotional toll of undercover work. Additionally, he addresses a significant crisis in Tennessee, stressing the need for better public policy to address the situation. Throughout his career, Payne emphasizes the importance of compassion and understanding in law enforcement, advocating for love over hate in society as a crucial aspect of effective policing.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41). They cover key issues like border security, immigration reform, and the fentanyl crisis. The Congressman discusses his advocacy for the Legal Workforce Act, which mandates E-Verify for new hires, emphasizing strong border policies for a secure workforce. He addresses the fentanyl crisis as a critical national security issue, calling for a comprehensive response to its impact. On international matters, Calvert shares insights on countering China’s influence, supporting U.S. engagement in Ukraine for global stability, and combating misinformation. The conversation also touches on the excitement around space exploration and the need for investment in this area, as well as the importance of revitalizing U.S. manufacturing to enhance economic and national security. Congressman Calvert’s passion and perspectives are sure to inspire thoughtful discussion among listeners.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Dr. Aaron Weiner, a psychologist and addiction specialist. They explore the complexities of addiction, its psychological underpinnings, and the societal factors contributing to its prevalence. They also discuss the biopsychosocial model of addiction, the impact of technology and social media, and the role of various industries in promoting addictive behaviors. The conversation delves into public policy challenges, the importance of early intervention, and the need for open communication between parents and children regarding substance use. Dr. Weiner emphasizes the significance of viewing addiction as a health condition and the necessity for comprehensive support systems for individuals struggling with addiction.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Virginia's Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security, Terrance "Terry" C. Cole. He reflects on the significance of September 11, emphasizing the sacrifices made by Virginians and the ongoing threat of terrorism as a national security concern. He pointed out the challenges posed by trafficking, particularly from Mexico and China, which are exacerbated by a porous southern border exploited by cartels and foreign adversaries. Cole is committed to fostering collaboration among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to tackle these pressing issues and believes in building personal relationships with federal partners to enhance communication and coordination. Community engagement is also a key focus for him, as he aims to educate families about the associated dangers through various initiatives. His comprehensive approach includes legislative measures designed to protect children and improve community safety. By prioritizing public safety and taking proactive steps against trafficking, Cole demonstrates a strong commitment to safeguarding the well-being of all Virginians.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes William C. Moyers, the Director of Public Relations and Communications at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation. He is also the author of two insightful books that chronicle his personal recovery journey. In this episode, he sheds light on the foundation's vital efforts to combat the stigma associated with seeking help for addiction. Moyers introduces his innovative concept of the Individual Recovery Account (IRA), which comprises a personalized toolkit of strategies and practices he utilizes daily to maintain his sobriety. He underscores the notion that recovery is a deeply personal experience, emphasizing that there is no universal solution. Instead, William shares valuable insights on how individuals can forge their own unique paths to healing when equipped with the right support.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Chris McGreal, a seasoned reporter for The Guardian, who has covered key regions like Africa, the Middle East, and Central America. Now residing in the United States, Chris has been reporting on the opioid epidemic since its inception, focusing on the unique factors that made it an American crisis. With deep insights into why this epidemic unfolded in the U.S. but not in other countries, Chris offers a critical perspective on one of the nation's most pressing public health issues.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Congressman Hal Rogers who has served Kentucky’s 5th Congressional District for 22 consecutive terms, playing a crucial role on the House Appropriations Committee. Facing the devastating impact of the opioid crisis, particularly OxyContin, Rogers launched Operation UNITE, a grassroots effort mobilizing thousands to combat addiction. He also founded the RX Summit, a leading drug policy forum attended by over 4,000 participants, including four U.S. presidents. In our conversation, Hal shares encouraging progress on reducing opioid deaths but emphasizes the need for stronger action on fentanyl, immigration reform, and border security to curb the ongoing crisis.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Dr. Sally Satel, a lecturer at Yale University School of Medicine, a visiting professor of psychiatry at Columbia University, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, and an author. In this episode, Dr. Satel offers valuable insights into addiction and mental health, particularly regarding the opioid crisis. With her extensive clinical experience, she challenges common misconceptions about addiction, emphasizing that most people prescribed opioids do not become addicted and that individual risk varies. She approaches discussions on addiction vulnerability with empathy, focusing on the human aspects of these complex issues while aiming to reduce stigma and promote compassionate, evidence-based solutions.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Regina LaBelle, a distinguished scholar and expert in addiction policy. As the director of the Addiction and Public Policy Initiative at Georgetown Law's O'Neill Institute and experience having been the Acting Director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy in 2021 and Chief of Staff at ONDCP during the Obama administration she brings a wealth of knowledge to our discussion.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Christine Brennan, an esteemed sports journalist who has earned "the best seat in the house" after covering 21 Olympic Games, both Summer and Winter shares her insights into the evolving world of women’s sports, highlighting the profound impact of the "Caitlin Clark effect" on increasing visibility, popularity, and financial opportunities for female athletes. 

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Dr. Nzinga Harrison, author of Un-Addiction: Six Mind-Changing Conversations That Could Save a Life, is a leading expert in addiction medicine who challenges the common misconception that addiction is simply a matter of choice. In her book, she reframes addiction as a chronic illness, similar to diabetes or asthma, emphasizing that it is influenced by a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and social factors. Paid Partnership: Lucy Pet Foods www.lucypetproducts.comUse Promo Code: Sagely Speaking for 15% off first order

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes legendary golfer Dave Stockton Jr. who shares his profound insights into the mental game of golf. Known not only for his prowess on the course but also for his expertise in coaching, Dave emphasizes the importance of maintaining mental focus while also savoring the camaraderie that makes the game so special. He spoke passionately about how playing with friends and appreciating the beauty of the outdoors can enhance a golfer's experience, reminding us that the joy of the game goes beyond just the scorecard.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Dr. Beau Kilmer, serving as the respected Co-Director at the esteemed RAND Drug Policy Research Center, as they delve deeply into the intricate landscape of drug policy in our recent dialogue. An expert in the domains of public health and safety, Dr. Kilmer's extensive research is dedicated to investigating the complexities of substance use, illegal markets, crime control, and public policy dynamics.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes John Ondrasik, the amazing musician known for his work as Five for Fighting. He opens up about using his music to advocate for important social causes. With beloved hits like "Superman,” "100 Years," and his new release, “OK,” he's touched the hearts of fans around the globe. In fact, his songs have been streamed worldwide over 1 billion times!

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Steve Adami as they discuss his remarkable journey from handcuffs to hope. Steve turned his life around after spending time in prison, embracing sobriety and personal growth. These days, Steve is all about giving back. He's teamed up with the Salvation Army to tackle San Francisco's addiction challenges head-on through an innovative program called The Way Out. This initiative focuses on recovery and aims to help those struggling with drug addiction and homelessness.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Lucy Pet Products COO and partner, Rick Rockhill who gives us such an inspiring perspective on the wonderful benefits of having a pet, emphasizing how they bring a sense of calm, stability, and can even help relieve anxiety. He also surprises us with insights into the health benefits of keeping something as tiny as a fish, demonstrating that no matter the type of pet, they contribute immensely to our well-being. Rick's insights will leave you feeling uplifted and reminded of the incredible joy and peace that our animal companions bring into our lives.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Dr. Robert Dupont who delves into the critical topic of recovery, emphasizing the profound lessons that can be learned from those who have navigated this challenging journey. He discusses the resilience and strength required to overcome adversity, and how hearing these stories can inspire and guide others on their own paths to healing. This episode offers a reminder that recovery is not just an individual effort but a shared journey enriched by the wisdom and encouragement of those who have walked the path before.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Paul Solotaroff, a no-holds barred investigative reporter from Rolling Stone Magazine who has been covering very serious and tough stories for decades. Famous for his persistence, Paul has been on the trail of social media companies and their role in making drugs very accessible to the children of America. His in-depth research has shown how these platforms and drug traffickers distribute deadly substances, which has created a national nightmare. After extensive interviews with federal and local law enforcement, parents and others, Paul discusses his findings and disturbing flaws which are causing heart-breaking losses to families across our country.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes a very special guest, especially since he is her husband...Rear Admiral Stephen Oswald, USN (ret). Steve is a distinguished former astronaut and Naval Aviator who embarked on a remarkable career that spanned various facets of aviation and space exploration. His journey began at the United States Naval Academy in 1973. Following his graduation, Steve served in the U.S. Navy, then went on to Test Pilot School, where he honed his skills as a pilot. He piloted 2 missions aboard Space Shuttle Discovery, and was Commander on Space Shuttle Endeavour, logging a total of 33 days in space. We discuss the many sunrises and sunsets, the importance of camaraderie and the mental prowess it takes to endure such missions.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Ed Bisch, the relentless advocate and founder of Relatives Against Purdue Pharma (RAPP), who talks about his 23 year struggle to make sure Purdue Pharma is held accountable for their irresponsible promotion and distribution of the highly addictive and potentially deadly drug OxyContin. Motivated by personal tragedy with the loss of his son, and driven by a commitment to justice, Ed's dedication and unwavering efforts have brought national attention to the devastating impact of opioid addiction.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Chris Didier, a pilot for United Airlines and Executive Board Member for Stop the Void who shares the heart-wrenching story of losing his 17-year-old son to a single pill laced with fentanyl. Chris talks about this tragic incident and how it underscores the critical need for parents to have open and honest conversations with their children about the dangers of drugs. He emphasizes that beyond parental vigilance, there must be a societal push to hold drug dealers accountable for the lives they endanger and destroy.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Katheryn Burgum, the First Lady of North Dakota, who is a powerful advocate for initiatives aimed at reducing the stigma surrounding drug addiction. Drawing from her own courageous journey of 15 years in recovery, she openly shares her experiences, breaking down barriers and fostering a more compassionate understanding of addiction as a disease.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Kim Humphrey, the Executive Director of Parents of Addicted Loved Ones (PAL). Kim's organization plays a crucial role in assisting parents who are navigating the challenging journey of having children with addiction issues and how they empower parents to lead by example. By fostering resilience and promoting healthy behaviors, Kim and his team help parents create a positive, supportive environment that can significantly influence their loved ones' paths to recovery.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers who has served in the House of Representatives for the past 20 years. During her tenure she has risen to hold the gavel on one of the most prestigious and powerful committees in the US Congress, the Energy and Commerce Committee. We spoke about her work combatting the opioid and fentanyl overdose epidemics and a whole lot more.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Gil Kerlikowske. Gil served as the Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy under President Obama for 5 years. After that service, he lead the Customs and Border Protection. It’s worth noting that he had a strong background in law enforement after leading the Seattle Police Department and then the Buffalo, New York department. Gil and I worked together on drug policy matters for years, and we both enjoyed the true bipartisan nature of our work. Although I served as a Republican and Gil as a Democrat, we never felt a partisan divide when seeking solutions — which is something we both lament as missing from today’s political discourse.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Dr. Kevin Sabet whom Congressman Patrick Kennedy (ret.) calls the “Happy Warrior.” Kevin is a warrior when it comes to smart drug policy, and the sheer weight of his beliefs and his dedication to his convictions will win any debate. He strongly believes in drug abuse prevention first.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Dr. Bertha Madras who has been at the forefront of discussions around drug policy for decades. Among the many areas she focuses on, we discussed her research into psychedelic drug therapies and her very concerned viewpoint. With billions of dollars pouring into this emerging field, Dr. Madras sheds light on the complexities and controversies surrounding these treatments and how the crucial cautionary narratives are omitted, potentially misleading the public about the realities of this therapy. She also talks about the dangers of the FDA's recommendation to reschedule marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III and the potentially hazardous implications of this proposed change. Listening to Bertha discuss drug abuse as a whole makes this episode a must-listen.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Emmitt Smith, the three time Super Bowl champion and football legend emphasizes the importance of mental toughness and physical resilience in the sport. Smith, who famously played through injuries with minimal medication, warns about the dangers of relying on opioids for pain management. He talks about his role as a speaker at college campuses, educating athletes on the dangers of drugs and the importance of carrying the life saving medicine, NARCAN.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Greg Totten, CEO of the California District Attorneys Association, is an influential figure at the forefront of the multifaceted challenges facing California, including homelessness, rampant retail theft, and the alarming rise of fentanyl addiction. He is leading the efforts on a California measure called, The Homelessness, Drug Addiction and Theft Reduction Act which will reform Prop 47, an initiative which many people credit as having created multiple humanitarian crisis throughout California. 

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes a seasoned expert, a 32-year veteran of the DEA, Bill Bodner, whose insights shed light on the intricate dynamics of the drug trade. Our conversation delved into the complex interplay between supply and demand, touching upon the operations of drug cartels and the influence of global players like China. We explored the evolving challenges, particularly concerning the accessibility of drugs to youth, exacerbated by the alarming ease with which they can be procured via social media platforms functioning as open-air drug markets.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Lorraine Martin who talks about her leadership at the National Safety Council, and how the NSC serves as a vital conduit for workplace safety information. She offers comprehensive guidelines for general safety practices and talks about the concerning rise in drug overdoses in workplaces and the proactive measures the NSC has taken to address this issue head-on.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Michael Braun, retired from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as Chief of Operations, Assistant Administrator. He sheds light on the intricate network behind the Mexican cartels' dominance in supplying fentanyl, emphasizing their dependence on chemical companies in China for production. He underscores the financial motivations driving this collaboration and raising questions about China's role in facilitating such operations and the potential motivations behind it. 

A proven thought leader and Professor of Psychiatry at Stanford University, Dr. Keith Humphreys emphasizes the crucial role of law enforcement and health care workers joining together to solve our Nation's drug problem. He also talks about his leadership as a former drug policy advisor at the White House in expanding public access to naloxone, the overdose reversal medication, that is helping to save lives.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes renowned addiction specialist and popular television host, an author, and a public speaker Dr. Drew Pinsky. They dive into the complex landscape of addiction, parenting, treatment and the lack of facilities, and the policies surrounding these issues and gives the most honest, practical, and up-to-date medical advice based on scientific evidence.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Dr. Adam Leventhal as they delve into the complex world of the drug epidemic. An innovative academic response with the founding director of the Institute for Addiction Science at host Mary Bono's alma mater, the University of Southern California (USC). In this insightful conversation, Dr. Adam Leventhal, discusses his approach to the multifaceted issues surrounding drug regulation, policy, and challenges in trying to stay ahead of the epidemic.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Captain Christopher Jones, the Director of the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, who discusses the critical importance of safeguarding our loved ones from the dangers of substance abuse. Their conversation delves into the multifaceted challenges faced by communities in combatting drug abuse and the urgent need for proactive preventative measures. Captain Jones passionately emphasizes the crucial role of education, early intervention, and community support in fostering resilience against substance misuse.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes a friend and a leader in advocacy and policy at Safe States Alliance, Rich Hamburg who works tirelessly to address a myriad of issues, always prioritizing prevention and wellness. His dedication to promoting policies that safeguard communities against illness and injury is unparalleled. Whether advocating for access to healthcare, supporting initiatives to combat infectious diseases, or championing measures to prevent substance abuse, he consistently demonstrates a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of public health issues and the need for collaborative solutions.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Angela Kennecke, whom despite enduring the heart-wrenching loss of her daughter to a tragic drug overdose finds solace in channeling her grief into a beacon of hope for others. With unwavering determination, she founded a charity in her daughter's name, Emily's Hope, which is dedicated to supporting parents grappling with similar struggles. Angela remains resolute in her mission to prevent other families from experiencing the anguish she endured. 

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Rob Perry, the visionary founder of XOMAD. He talks about revolutionizing influencer marketing by tapping into the "power of local messengers," recognizing the potential to reach audiences en masse by employing local influencers. XOMAD can use the technology to disseminate the word about the current drug epidemic by leveraging authentic voices of influencers within specific communities, which will make the impact widespread. In a XOMAD/Mothers Against Prescription Drug Abuse post-campaign discussion, Rob and Mary talk about the success of "The Greatest Gift is a Conversation" campaign and how the innovative approach had a profound impact and resonated with mothers to talk to their loved ones about the dangers of drug abuse.oach, not only harnesses the reach of social media, but it also cultivates a genuine connection between the brand and its audience.  

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Tom Wolf, a fierce advocate against failing addiction and homeless policies. He bravely took the stage, opening up about his journey through drug addiction and subsequent recovery. His story unfolds as a testament to resilience and the transformative power of rehabilitation. Wolf's candid account not only sheds light on the harrowing depths of addiction but also serves as an inspiring narrative of redemption and the pursuit of a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Congressman Buddy Carter who passionately discusses the urgent need for Naloxone in every school across America. He underscores his critical role in the Saving our Students in School Act ensuring that every school is equipped to handle opioid-related incidents. Additionally, he touched upon his involvement in advancing Sammy's Law aimed at empowering parents to identify and intervene in situations where an individual may attempt to exploit or solicit their children on social media. His commitment to protecting students and families through comprehensive legislation is evident in his advocacy for these crucial initiatives. 

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono kicks off her first episode with Matt Capelouto who lost his daughter Alexandra to fentanyl poisoning in 2019. Matt became president of Drug-Induced Homicide Foundation, and has introduced Senate Bill 44, otherwise known as "Alexandra's Law," which would help prosecutors bring murder charges against convicted drug dealers. For some grieving parents, laws like this represent a path to justice—the only way to punish the people they believe “poisoned” their children in a country that has gone soft against hardened criminals. For others, it’s a doomed latter-day embrace of the war on drugs that will only bring more pain and suffering.