In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall, LMFT sits down with Dr. Tara C. Raines, Ph.D., N.C.S.P., a passionate advocate for youth mental health and community empowerment. Together, they explore how the opioid crisis impacts children, families, and educators—and how compassion, advocacy, and education can inspire systemic change. Dr. Raines shares insights on the importance of understanding the “why” behind student behaviors, the power of lived experience in shaping interventions, and the role of legislative wins in expanding access to mental health services. This heartfelt conversation emphasizes that healing begins in community—through empathy, collaboration, and the courage to take action for the next generation.
In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall sits down with Ryan Mills, a former professional BMX rider whose story embodies both the pain and the promise of recovery. Ryan opens up about his battle with opioid use disorder, exploring how the intense pressure to perform can lead youth and high-achieving athletes down a dangerous path. Together, Bianca and Ryan unpack the importance of holistic pain management, peer support, and the power of lived experience in recovery.
The conversation challenges traditional ideas of accountability, calling for more compassionate and flexible recovery programs that honor the complexities of addiction and identity rebuilding. Ryan’s reflections offer a message of hope—that even after deep struggle, a renewed sense of purpose and community can emerge.
Moderator: Bianca D. McCall, LMFT
Panelists: Dr. Tara C. Raines, Ph.D., N.C.S.P | Dr. Crystal Lee (Diné) | Ryan Mills
In this episode, host Bianca D. McCall, LMFT leads an insightful discussion on how opioid use disorder impacts diverse and often underserved populations. Drawing on years of clinical practice, research, and lived experience, the panel explores prevention, recovery, and culturally responsive approaches to behavioral health.
Bianca D. McCall, LMFT is a retired professional women’s basketball player turned international TED speaker and mental health innovator. With over 25 years in behavioral health and 12 as a healthcare CEO, she has pioneered digital health tools aimed at improving emotional well-being and preventing psychological injury. Bianca represents Nevada on national suicide prevention committees through SAMHSA and the U.S. Department of Public Health. As a clinical instructor and curriculum developer with CASAT at the University of Nevada, Reno, she brings both expertise and compassion to her leadership in this discussion.
Dr. Tara C. Raines, Ph.D., N.C.S.P serves as the Deputy Director of the Children’s Advocacy Alliance of Nevada. A nationally recognized school psychologist and researcher, Dr. Raines focuses on early identification of emotional and behavioral risks in youth and addresses the systemic inequities that drive many toward the juvenile justice system. Her work promotes healing-centered, culturally responsive care and bilingual workforce development in mental health and education. With experience at the University of Denver and UNLV, Dr. Raines brings evidence-based insight to the conversation on trauma and intergenerational effects of the opioid crisis.
Dr. Crystal Lee (Diné) is an Assistant Professor at the University of New Mexico College of Population Health and Founder/CEO of United Natives, a national nonprofit delivering free telehealth mental health services to Indigenous communities. Her research and advocacy span infectious disease prevention, Indigenous health policy, and global representation for Native peoples. She has served on multiple United Nations Indigenous caucuses, advised the Obama Administration, and been honored by President Bill Clinton for her leadership. A trailblazer in business and health equity, Dr. Lee’s work bridges culture, policy, and technology to uplift Indigenous wellness.
Ryan Mills is a former professional BMX rider whose path to recovery after a decade-long struggle with heroin addiction has become a story of hope and resilience. After completing a drug court program, Ryan rebuilt his life, reconnecting with family, community, and his passion for BMX. Now a Health Resource Analyst III and Program Specialist with Nevada’s Division of Public and Behavioral Health, he uses his experience to advocate for others navigating addiction and recovery. Ryan’s journey reminds listeners that transformation is possible through support, purpose, and persistence.
Together, this panel dives deep into how opioid use disorder intersects with culture, identity, access, and recovery. From research and policy to personal narrative, this episode offers a powerful look at healing and innovation across communities.
In season 2 of the NOCE Dose we examine how Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) impacts specific population groups that experience distinctive health vulnerabilities, including youth, older adults, individuals with disabilities and neurodivergence, birthing women and Tribal Nations. Anchored in evidence-based frameworks for trauma-informed care, developmental risk, and structural competency, the season prioritizes the integration of firsthand narratives with the data on service gaps. Listeners will engage in structured dialogue to better understand how variations in age, ability, neurodevelopment, and community context influence OUD risk trajectories and access to care. This season supports a broader objective of informing service models that are integrity-based, developmentally appropriate, and community-informed, consistent with national public health guidance for behavioral health fairness.
In this deeply meaningful episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall is joined by Dr. Crystal Lee, a public health expert and advocate for Indigenous communities, for a powerful discussion on Indigenous health, identity, and healing. Together, they explore how acknowledging historical truths, embracing cultural worldviews, and reclaiming Indigenous languages are essential steps toward collective wellness and self-love.
Dr. Lee unpacks the importance of community support in addressing mental health and substance use disorder within Native populations, while also highlighting the impact of misclassification and systemic barriers. The conversation delves into the role of culturally responsive care, spiritual connection to land, and how sports, especially basketball, can be a meaningful bridge for Indigenous youth.
Listeners will be reminded that healing happens in discomfort, that “land is our church,” and that unity is not just a concept, but a practice rooted in cultural and spiritual strength. This episode serves as a call to action to support Indigenous healing efforts, honor ancestral truths, and center community in all wellness work.
In this enlightening episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall sits down with Alisa Howard to explore the vital role of Community Health Workers (CHWs) in behavioral health, with a particular focus on addressing opioid use disorder. With compassion and clarity, Alisa underscores the power of lived experience in reducing stigma, building trust, and humanizing the healthcare system.
Together, they delve into how CHWs act as a bridge between clinical care and the communities they serve, offering peer support, cultural understanding, and a voice for those often left unheard. Alisa reflects on how “the thing that once saved me is now killing me,” highlighting the complexities of recovery and the importance of empathy in healing work.
The conversation also touches on the financial sustainability of CHW roles, the need for formal integration into healthcare settings, and the professional development of CHWs. Through themes of forgiveness, sustainability, and the 8 Dimensions of Wellness, this episode challenges healthcare systems to rethink how they define support and healing.
As Alisa says, “Community needs to be community all of the time,” and this episode is a reminder that true health must also include humanity.
In this episode of The NOCE Dose podcast, host Bianca D. McCall welcomes Daniel Fred, Director of the Nevada Recovery and Prevention (NRAP) Program, to explore the evolving landscape of opioid recovery. Together, they dive into insights from a recent listening session, focusing on how creating fun, inclusive spaces—especially on campuses—can foster stronger recovery communities. Daniel emphasizes that "recovery is recovery is recovery," reminding listeners that presence and belief are essential to healing. The conversation highlights the importance of removing shame from the recovery process, using student-friendly language, and believing in the collective power of community. Daniel and Bianca also discuss how recovery doesn't have to be fearful or isolating; instead, it can be joyful, intentional, and deeply connected. This episode is a powerful reminder that the "F-word" in recovery is fun—and that celebrating life is a vital part of healing.
In this episode of The NOCE Dose podcast, host Bianca D. McCall sits down with Cheryl Nixon, a certified peer recovery support specialist, for a heartfelt conversation about the realities of opioid use disorder and the journey toward healing. Cheryl shares her personal story, emphasizing the power of belief, the importance of meeting people where they are, and the role of community in recovery. Together, they unpack the stigma around medication-assisted treatment (MAT), the need to address basic human needs before tackling addiction, and how recovery is a "we thing"—not a solitary journey. Cheryl reflects on the vital impact one supportive person can have and encourages listeners to "reach back and grab someone," fostering connection, accountability, and hope. This episode highlights that recovery is not only possible but thrives through compassion, understanding, and community action.
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.
In this powerful episode of The NOCE Dose, we dive deep into the stigma surrounding Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and its profound impact on People Who Use Drugs (PWUD) communities seeking treatment. Hosted by Bianca D. McCall, LMFT, this Listening Session brings together a diverse panel of experts and advocates dedicated to fostering recovery-friendly spaces in both the workplace and community.
Bianca, alongside a dynamic group of panelists, including Cheryl Nixon, Daniel Fred, Rhonda Fairchild, and Teresa Sands, explore strategies for challenging and reducing stigma, creating environments that encourage individuals to seek help, and sustaining long-term recovery.
Listeners will gain insight into evidence-based recurrence prevention strategies, and how these can be applied to today’s PWUD communities. The panel also highlights the importance of creating recovery-friendly spaces—how these spaces contribute to sustained recovery, reduce stigma, and promote inclusivity.
Join us for this insightful conversation as we explore innovative ways to support individuals on their recovery journey and advocate for systemic change in mental health and addiction care.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in reducing stigma, fostering recovery-friendly environments, and promoting lasting change in addiction treatment and support.
In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall engages in a deep conversation with Kayla Shannon, a licensed clinical social worker, about the opioid response programming in Nevada. They discuss the importance of collaboration among professionals, the unique trauma profiles in Nevada communities, and the integration of holistic treatments like yoga into medically assisted treatment (MAT). Kayla shares insights on how trauma-informed care can empower individuals to share their stories and the benefits of providing comprehensive support in correctional facilities. The episode concludes with a call to action for community engagement and support in recovery efforts.
In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall sits down with Kim Nischik, a board-certified physician assistant, to discuss the opioid response in Nevada and the vital role of mentorship in addiction treatment. Reflecting on insights from a recent listening session, they explore strategies for educating patients about medication options, overcoming barriers to access, and fostering a supportive environment for recovery. Kim shares her experiences on the frontlines of healthcare, highlighting the importance of connectedness in care and the commitment of Northern Nevada Hopes to both patients and providers. This episode underscores the power of education, advocacy, and mentorship in strengthening the addiction treatment landscape.
In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall sits down with Dr. Krista Hales to discuss Nevada’s opioid response programming and the critical role of community connections in behavioral health. Reflecting on insights from a recent listening session, they explore the challenges of maintaining motivation in recovery, the importance of psychological safety for treatment providers, and the necessity of cultural responsiveness in substance use treatment. Dr. Hales emphasizes the power of teaching individuals to find comfort in discomfort and shares personal experiences on resilience, advocacy, and self-care in the field. This conversation serves as a powerful reminder of the need for trust, persistence, and a supportive community in addressing substance use disorders.
In this insightful conversation, Bianca D. McCall and Erik Schoen discuss the challenges and opportunities in addressing opioid use disorder and mental health in rural Nevada. They explore the importance of community engagement, pro-social activities, and the need for a shift in mental health models to better serve the unique needs of rural populations. Erik shares his experiences and insights on building infrastructure, fostering connections, and the existential aspects of health and wellness. In this conversation, Erik Schoen and Bianca D. McCall discuss the importance of building trust in rural communities, the role of lived experience in treatment, and the integration of holistic approaches and technology in mental health care. They emphasize the need for cultural competence, the empowerment of community members, and the significance of mentorship in fostering growth within these communities. The dialogue highlights the challenges and opportunities in bridging the gap between traditional treatment methods and innovative, community-driven solutions.
In our third Listening Session, The NOCE Dose host, Bianca D. McCall, leads insightful conversations with experts on the opioid response in Nevada. Through discussions with clinicians, social workers, and healthcare professionals, this episode explores the importance of community collaboration, trauma-informed care, and holistic approaches in addiction treatment. Guests share their experiences in addressing barriers to care, fostering psychological safety in the workforce, and mentoring the next generation of providers. From integrating holistic therapies like yoga in medically assisted treatment (MAT) to navigating the complexities of cultural responsiveness, this episode highlights the power of connection, persistence, and education in improving addiction recovery efforts.
In this conversation, Bianca D. McCall and Darcy Patterson discuss the complexities of substance use disorders, the impact of personal loss, and the importance of community support and advocacy. Darcy shares her personal journey with her daughter's struggles with addiction and her subsequent advocacy work with Wake Up Nevada. The discussion emphasizes the need for education, harm reduction strategies, and the importance of self-care for families affected by substance use. The conversation highlights the transformation from silence to advocacy and the critical role of connection in recovery.
In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall engages with Katarina Pulver, Health Educator II, Office of Disease Surveillance Division of Disease Surveillance and Control. They discuss the critical role of health educators in bridging the gap between research and practice in harm reduction, the importance of community outreach, and the nuances between activism and advocacy. Katarina shares insights on self-care, preventing burnout, and the significance of representation in the recovery process. The conversation highlights the need for continuous learning and the importance of meeting individuals where they are in their journey.
In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall engages with Donald Griffin, a peer recovery support specialist, discussing the complexities of recovery from substance use disorder, particularly within historically and intentionally oppressed communities. They explore personal stories, the impact of culture on recovery, and the role of organizations like Black Wall Street in providing culturally responsive support. The conversation emphasizes the importance of representation, understanding, and collaboration in addressing the opioid crisis and promoting healing.
About Donald Griffin
Donald Griffin’s journey led him to the last house on Black Wall Street, a symbolic place where he began to heal from the bumps and bruises of life. Having overcome the grip of alcohol and the scars left by addiction, he found clarity and purpose as his mind and body healed.Three years into his sobriety, Donald became acutely aware of the growing issues among the youth in Reno, Nevada—rising overdoses, homelessness, school dropouts, and suicides. Reflecting on the role models and influences that shaped his life, he felt a deep sense of responsibility and fear for the future.
Seven years later, Donald’s efforts have resulted in the installation of over 20 Narcan boxes throughout the Reno-Sparks area to combat the opioid crisis. Under his leadership, a youth Peer-to-Peer program has been developed and implemented in Washoe County School District. His organization also hosts suicide prevention, “Stop the Bleed,” and Harm Reduction classes, and provides essential services such as a diaper bank, food pantry, and street outreach team. The list of their contributions continues to grow.
As the Co-founder and Director, and a parent himself, Donald is dedicated to ensuring that youth receive the education they need in self-preservation, credit building, vocational skills, home economics, leadership training, and enjoying life while learning to become productive members of society. Above all, his goal is to help them develop a sense of pride in themselves.
Disclaimer
This podcast is for educational purposes only. Any advice offered on the podcast is an educational context and is not intended as direct medical advice, nor as a replacement for it. If you are experiencing a medical or life emergency, please call 911. If you are experiencing a crisis, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273 – 8255. If you are experiencing stress, and would like professional help please contact your insurance company to identify a therapist in your area or contact the organization you work for and ask about an employee assistance program.
In this episode of The NOCE Dose podcast, host Bianca D. McCall engages with Bethany Wilkins, Education and Advocacy Committee Chair for Northern Nevada Harm Reduction Alliance and a leader in harm reduction efforts in Nevada. They discuss the profound impact of lived experience in the field, the challenges of navigating grief and loss, and the importance of self-care and boundaries for those working in high-stress environments. The conversation also explores the complexities of identity within harm reduction work, the necessity of building relationships in rural communities, and the critical need for sustainability in harm reduction initiatives. Bethany shares her insights on how to effectively collaborate with rural areas and the importance of humility and community engagement in these efforts.
Join us for a compelling listening session that dives deep into the critical topics of fentanyl test strip education, preparedness for overdose emergencies, and the evolution of harm reduction strategies. As we explore the rising tide of synthetic opioids, we’ll hear firsthand experiences and insights from experts in the field.
Learning Objectives:
This session is designed to enhance your preparedness to tackle overdose emergencies within your community. Tune in to empower yourself with knowledge and insights that can make a real difference!