In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall speaks with Teresa Sands about the complexities of recovery, stigma, and harm reduction. Through powerful reflections, Teresa challenges traditional narratives around addiction, emphasizing the importance of asking individuals what they truly want from recovery. The discussion delves into key themes such as sex work stigma, the war on drugs as a war on people, and the need for culturally responsive pathways to recovery. Together, they explore the value of lived experience in shaping effective care, the role of transparency and accountability in treatment, and the idea that abstinence is not the only path to healing. This episode encourages listeners, both professionals and those in recovery, to rethink societal approaches to substance use and embrace a more inclusive, compassionate model of support.

Funding for this activity was made possible in whole or in part by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Director’s Office through the Fund for a Resilient Nevada, established in Nevada Revised Statutes 433.712 through 433.744. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Nevada Opioid Center of Excellence or its funders.