The NOCE Dose: The Opioid Crisis Unplugged

In this compelling episode, host Bianca D. McCall reconnects with Dr. Annie Lindsay to dive deeper into the gendered realities of opioid and stimulant use among women. Dr. Lindsay breaks down why women of reproductive age are one of the fastest-growing groups affected by substance use, highlighting the overlooked role of methamphetamine, the weight of trauma, and the profound impact of limited social and human capital. Together, th...

In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall, LMFT welcomes Dr. Eboni January—physician, author, and advocate—for a transformative discussion on empathy, maternal health, and the human side of medicine. Together, they examine how opioid use disorder impacts mothers and families, challenging traditional systems that punish rather than support.

Dr. January shares her experiences as both a provider and a mother, emphasizing ...

This second Listening Session continues our exploration of Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) in special populations, shifting the lens to the full lifespan. Building upon Part 1's focus on youth and Tribal communities, Part 2 will examine the intergenerational and biological effects of opioid exposure from the womb through later life stages. Panelists will include a speech-language pathologist and lactation consultant working with opioid-e...

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 b...

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 suppo...

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 he...

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 firsthan...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 arou...

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...

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 p...

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 traum...

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. K...

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 responsivenes...

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 ...

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, foster...

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...