Although we discussed the history of AA back in episode 67, this episode will give an overview of each of the 12 steps. We will have a discussion on how we each view each step and how the 12 steps can be applied to not only those in recovery or seeking recovery, but also for all people, as a guidebook of sorts for how we all should live our lives.

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We are joined today by Alicia House, Executive Director of Steve Rummler Hope Network, an organization focused on overdose prevention, education and advocacy. From naloxone access points to distribution of fentanyl test strips to naloxone trainings to the creation of Steve's Law in Minnesota (in short, this law provides immunity to those who call 911 who are also using substances, for another person with them who has an overdose- encouraging monitoring and life-saving care for those with SUD), this organization has led the country in Harm Reduction. Learn more about this amazing organization at: www.steverummlerhopenetwork.org

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We are excited for Conroy Scott to join us on this episode. Scott experimented with many substances when he was younger, a natural fit as a very talented musician, this love he eventually gave up in order to find and maintain sobriety. That was just the first choice he made in his story that saved his life. He had to emotionally let go of many things from his past stating, "I don't want to be a victim of my past". Now, more than 20 years in recovery, he is a devoted AA member, participating in meetings daily, sponsoring many, and always leading with a positive acknowledgement of showing up. "The program is working if you are here."

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We are honored to be joined in this episode by Kateri Coyhis, the director of Wellbriety. Wellbriety, and its overarching White Bison, focuses on 'going beyond being just sober--- it is whole-person wellness" focused on inclusion and universal human teachings. Wellbriety focuses on integration of the Native American culture (or through inclusivity any human idea of culture) into prevention, treatment and long-term recovery. The movement has continued to grow, as you will hear, and has added the additional foci of initiatives aimed at youth, reentry programs, communities in healing, the fatherhood initiative, Mending Broken Hearts (focused on grief, trauma and intergenerational trauma), and more, as they are always evolving and growing to meet the needs of the people.

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Benzodiazepines ('benzos'), part of the sedative hypnotic class of drugs, are widely prescribed medications. They are, however, also a widely desired drug of abuse. Xanax, Valium, Ativan, and Klonopin (generic names respectively: alprazolam, diazepam, lorazepam, clonazepam) are the most commonly desired benzos, with xanax leading the pack due to its fast onset of action and high potency. Benzos are prescribed, most often, for anxiety and insomnia and are desired for these same relaxation and calming effects. What many people don't know, especially those who get these and take them as prescribed from their doctor, is that people become tolerant quite quickly and stopping them is not only difficult but also potentially life-threatening.

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On the last MOUD episode, we discussed Methadone (a full agonist opioid treatment for OUD) and Naltrexone (an antagonist treatment for OUD). In this episode, we will discuss Buprenorphine, which is a partial agonist opioid treatment for OUD. Buprenorphine, the sublingual name brands of Suboxone and Subutex and the injectable name brand of Sublocade, is becoming a mainstay of treatment for OUD. We will discuss the hows and whys of buprenorphine and what makes it a great treatment option.

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Treatment Court, also and formerly known as Drug Court, is a well-researched method for preventing recidivism (the revolving door of persons in and out of correctional institutions). Today we are joined by Aleesha Ward, the Treatment Court Coordinator for St. Louis County, MN. She will describe who can, and should, be involved in a treatment court, the team-based approached used in treatment court as well as what the program actually looks like. She states, "Jail does not work, we know that. These people are sick, they are high risk and high need." Treatment court uses a collaborative team effort to help stabilize and rehabilitate individuals so they are able to live as productive members of society in the short and long-term.

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After many requests, we are going to start diving into the different medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD). We will start with the basic 101 level overview of these medications, whereas future episodes will be much more detailed and nuanced. In this episode, methadone and naltrexone will be discussed. We will discuss how and why they work as MOUD as well as a few of the things that make each more or less appropriate for certain patients. Every person is different and there will be certain characteristics that make one MOUD 'better' for that patient vs. another. Ultimately, however, treating this disease is the goal, and MOUD is a part of treatment so understanding the how and why of each medication is very important.

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