Episode 19: Teri Sforza sits down to talk about addiction reporting and the stories that have stuck with her

In another special episode, we are joined by 2024 ASAM Media Award recipient Teri Sforza. Teri describes her journalistic approach as that of an "accountability reporter." In this conversation, she shares her journey to the field of addiction reporting and her thoughts about the need for potential legislation and oversight related to the addiction treatment industry. Teri discusses her work as a lead reporter on the award-winning series, Rehab Riviera. She also addresses how she has perceived stigma through her reporting, how journalists can help combat stigma, and what motivates her to continue her work. Teri offers advice and words of wisdom for up-and-coming or current journalists who may be interested in reporting on addiction.

Teri Sforza, MFA, is one of the lead reporters on the Orange County Register (OCR)/Southern California News Group’s ongoing probe of fraud, abuse, and death in the Southern California addiction treatment industry. The Rehab Riviera series coverage won first place for investigative reporting from the California Newspaper Publishers Association (CNPA), first place for projects reporting from Best of the West, and was a finalist for the National Institute for Health Care Management Foundation's print award in 2018. Teri birthed the Watchdog column in 2008, aiming to keep a critical (but good-humored) eye on governments and nonprofits, which won first place for public service reporting from the CNPA in 2010. She contributed to the OCR's Pulitzer Prize-winning investigation of fertility fraud at UC Irvine, covered what was then the largest municipal bankruptcy in America‘s history, and is the author of The Strangest Song, the first book to tell the story of a genetic condition called Williams syndrome and the extraordinary musicality of many of the people who have it. She earned her M.F.A. from UCLA's School of Theater, Film and Television, and enjoys making documentaries. She's honored that her work has been recognized by ASAM and hopes for a brighter future for people struggling with addiction.

Links:

ASAM Awards & Scholarships

Rehab Riviera

The Orange County Register

Southern California News Group

American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM)

California Society of Addiction Medicine (CSAM)

The Strangest Song: One Father’s Quest to Help His Daughter Find Her Voice

 

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, you are not alone. Treatment is available and recovery is possible. Visit ASAM’s Patient Resources page for more information.

The information shared in this podcast episode is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or ASAM management.