In the season two finale of Beyond Substance, hosts Dean Babcock and Jodi Miller bring together a panel of leaders working across Indiana to address the opioid epidemic. Joining the conversation are Jodi Miller (peer recovery leader and co-host), Sarah Grubb (Forensic Epidemiologist, Marion County Public Health Department), Dr. Eric Yazel (ER Physician and Indiana EMS Medical Director), and Justin Phillips (Founder of Overdose Lifeline). Together, they reflect on the progress made in reducing overdose deaths, examine data-driven insights and community initiatives, and highlight the ongoing challenges that demand attention. This roundtable brings multiple perspectives—clinical, public health, advocacy, and lived experience—into a collective call for continued collaboration, innovation, and hope.

 Takeaways

• Naloxone access saves lives: Large-scale distribution and low-barrier access remain critical.
• Bridge programs matter: Linking ER patients to long-term care improves outcomes and prevents relapse.
• Data drives change: Real-time overdose surveillance helps communities respond quickly and effectively.
• Peer support builds hope: Recovery coaches create essential trust and reduce stigma.
• Equity is essential: Addressing racial and demographic disparities must remain a priority.

Episode Hashtags
#BeyondSubstance #OpioidEpidemic #RecoveryIsPossible #NaloxoneSavesLives #HarmReduction #SubstanceUseRecovery #EndOverdose #PeerRecovery #IndianaRecovery #CommunityHealth #DataDrivenSolutions #MAT #BridgeProgram #PublicHealth #Epidemiology #OverdoseLifeline #ShawnPNeal #AdvoCast #StigmaFree #HopeAndRecovery

Podcast Information:

• Hosted by: Dean Babcock & Jodi Miller
• Interview Segment Producer: Angela Shamblin
• Personal Story Producer: Shawn P Neal
• Executive Producer: Shawn P Neal
• Mixed at: AvoCast Studio236