Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West

In this episode of Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West , we sit down with Dr. Sarah Reese from the University of Montana to explore how Montana’s vast landscapes shape the close-knit communities within them. Dr. Reese shares how these deep roots influence her approach to social work, especially when supporting children and families affected by perinatal substance use disorder. Thr...

In this episode of Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West , we're joined by Dr. Elizabeth D’Amico from RAND and UCLA for a powerful conversation about something that may sound simple but can be surprisingly tough: how to talk with (and listen to) youth about substance use. Dr. D’Amico shares insights from her work in youth prevention and offers practical, approachable ways we can...

In this episode of Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West , we sit down with Adam Cohen, CEO and President of Odyssey House of Utah , for a powerful conversation about recovery, resilience, and community care. Adam walks us through the wide range of substance use disorder and mental health services Odyssey House provides, highlighting the impact these programs have on individuals and...

In this episode of  Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West , we’re joined by the brilliant and passionate Dr. Rana Jawish. She shares her work improving mental health care for women, especially those navigating pregnancy alongside substance use or mood disorders. Dr. Jawish also makes a compelling case for future physicians: why choose between clinical care and research when you can...

In this episode of  Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West , we're joined by Tiffany Naccarato and Teresa Kim from the Utah Support Advocates for Recovery Awareness (USARA) —the team leading this year's Recovery Day! Tiffany and Teresa share what you can expect from the event, the powerful message behind it, and how we can all come together to be unstoppable together in recov...

In this episode of  Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West , we’re joined by PARCKA’s Director of Research, Jerry Cochran, PhD, MSW. Dr. Cochran shares the unexpected paths his career has taken and how those experiences ultimately led him to his current work in substance use research. You can learn more about Dr. Cochran at medicine.utah.edu/faculty/gerald-cochran . This podcast come...

In this episode of  Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West , we speak with friend of the podcast, Jenna Murray, MPH, about the progress of ELEVATE 's CEREMONY Study. Jenna also shares insights from her research exploring how social networks may influence substance use and birth outcomes among pregnant Native patients participating in CEREMONY . To sign up for upcoming ELEVATE/SUP...

In this episode of Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West we’re spotlighting 6 powerful community resources that are making a difference in our community. Whether you're looking to volunteer, expand your education, or simply get involved, we've got something for everyone. Learn more about this month's PARCKA Parley here . Pre-register for a Utah Naloxone training here . L...

In this episode of  Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West , we hear from Fernando Montero, PhD, as he unpacks the changes in street drug markets across the U.S. since the 1990s. Dr. Montero walks us through the history, the science, and the human impact—all while exploring how these substances are reshaping not just public health, but also the everyday lives of people who use drugs....

In this episode of  Let’s Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West , we sit down with Pam Gold, Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors at First Step House . Pam shares the deeply personal story of losing her son, Evan, to a substance use disorder. Through her journey of grief, she has been able to translate her experience into advocacy. Pam now works to honor Evan’s memory by supporting families a...

In this episode of Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West, we dive into a powerful conversation from a recent PARCKA Parley featuring Vanessa Genova, CPSS. Join us as we explore the inspiring work of the  USARA ARCHES Program . Vanessa shares firsthand insights into how ARCHES is transforming how patients are navigating healthcare systems. Don’t miss this eye-opening discussion on hope,...

In this episode of  Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West , we continue our exploration of the substances most affecting our communities. We're joined by Dr. Marcela Smid—a physician, researcher, and advocate—for an in-depth conversation about methamphetamine. Together, we unpack what it is, how it's used, and the impact it's having across the region. This podcast comes...

In this episode of Let’s Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West, we welcome back friend of the podcast Jasmin Charles, MS, PA-C, for an important conversation about fentanyl. Jasmin breaks down what fentanyl is, how it works in the body, and why it’s become a key focus in public health. Together, we talk about staying safe, advocating for our communities, and approaching this topic with facts,...

In this episode of Let’s Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West , we’re joined by Kara Kikuchi, ND, from the Center for HOPE at the Huntsman Cancer Institute. Kara shares valuable insights on tobacco use and cessation, highlighting the robust resources available to our . We also explore how to foster more compassionate, non-stigmatizing conversations around tobacco use. If you or someone you k...

In this episode of Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West , we dive into the world of reality TV and its impact on how addiction is portrayed and perceived. From harmful stereotypes to moments of unexpected honesty, we explore how these shows shape public understanding—for better or worse—and what happens when real stories manage to break through the noise and stigma. This podcast co...

In this episode of Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West , we chat with Clinical Research Coordinator Cole Fordham about something simple—but often overlooked—treating people like people. Cole shares how leading with empathy and keeping things human-first helps him build trust, boost retention, and make the most of limited resources. It’s a thoughtful, down-to-earth conversation abo...

In this episode of Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West , we're joined by Dr. Lirit Franks, a Research Development Associate at PARCKA and the driving force behind PARCKA's cannabis evaluation projects. Dr. Franks shares why she’s declaring 2025 “the year of hell yeah” and offers an inside look at PARCKA’s innovative work in cannabis evaluation and research. This podcast co...

Let’s Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West is officially one year old! A huge thank you to all of our listeners for letting us chat with you over the past year. To celebrate, we’re taking a trip down memory lane and listening back to a few of our favorite moments from the last 12 months. Thanks for being part of the conversation—we couldn’t have done it without you! To learn how you can supp...

In this episode of Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West , we sit down with Dr. Zachary Hill, PharmD, BCPP, MA — a Clinical Pharmacist Practitioner (CPP) at the VA Salt Lake City Health Care System. Dr. Hill sheds light on the vital role CPPs play in supporting veterans through mental health challenges and substance use recovery, offering insights into patient care, collaboration, a...

In this episode of Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West , we're joined by Dr. Elizabeth Siantz, Assistant Professor at the University of Utah's College of Social Work. Dr. Siantz opens up about her journey to finding a sense of home in Utah, what drew her to the field of social work, and how her research continues to inspire and drive her passion for elevating the experienc...

In this episode of Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West , we’re joined by Samantha (Sami) West, a Care Coordinator at Sacred Circle Healthcare and a woman in long-term recovery. Sami shares her powerful journey—not only of recovery, but of rediscovering self-love and personal strength. This podcast comes from the⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Program of Addiction Research, Clinical...

In this episode of Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West , we conclude our celebration of the expansion of the Substance Use & Pregnancy—Recovery, Addiction, and Dependence (SUPeRAD) Clinic in Salt Lake City’s Rose Park neighborhood. We talk about why SUPeRAD is so important to our community and some tips on how we can all do our part in supporting SUPeRAD's mission. You can...

In this episode of Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West , we take you inside the powerful and emotional grand opening of the new Substance Use & Pregnancy—Recovery, Addiction, and Dependence (SUPeRAD) Clinic in Salt Lake City’s Rose Park neighborhood. This groundbreaking clinic is more than just a building—it’s a beacon of hope. In part one, we hear from the incredible women wh...

In this episode of Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West , we’re sharing our team's recent experience serving lunch to those in need at the Volunteers of America, Utah's Geraldine E. King Women's Resource Center. Plus, find out how you can support PARCKA this U Giving Day and make a difference! Learn more about U Giving Day. If you would like to volunteer with VOA UT, pl...

In this episode of Let's Talk About Drugs in the Intermountain West, we tune you into the rest of our conversation with Jackie, Lauren, and Scott from the Teetotal Initiative. If you missed part 1, listen to it here . You can learn more about the Teetotal Initiative at www.teetotal.org or give them a follow on Instagram @teetotal_initiative. Mark your calendars! The University of Utah's Gi...