2021 Episodes
Below is the archive of our first batch of Voices of Hope episodes. These episodes aired in the spring and summer of 2021 on WAGM-TV, WGME CBS 13 News, and WABI TV5 stations. They’re stored here as a testament to the power of past stories and the knowledge of the people who collaborated on this show.
Episode 1
“In the Beginning, I Liked It.”
Episode 1 introduces a cast of young people who recount how using substances in their teens initially “worked
for them”. Whether they were fitting in and partying with other friends, dulling the pain caused by trauma, or
just experimenting, their early experiences were mostly positive. Medical experts discuss the impact on the
brain from early use of drugs and alcohol.
Episode 2
“The Slippery Slope.”
Episode 2 follows our cast as they explain how drug and alcohol use began to rule their lives. Additional
medical experts are introduced to discuss the onset of addiction and how basic brain functioning begins to
“hardwire” the attachment to the chemical substances.
Episode 3
“Descending into Darkness.”
Our cast discusses their full-scale addiction, hitting “rock bottom” and initial attempts at recovery. The role
that genetics plays in addiction is explored. DayOne, a recovery house for teenage girls, is featured as one
alternative for young girls in need of treatment.
Episode 4
“12 Steps to Recovery”
Our cast returns to explain their numerous attempts at recovery and repeated relapses. Relapse is discussed
in detail as a likely component to any recovery program. Individual recovery stories discuss 12 step programs
and other important factors helpful in furthering the potential for recovery and personal transformation.
Episode 5
“Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT).”
Operation HOPE, a drug treatment referral program managed by Scarborough Police Department in
Scarborough, Maine is featured. Medical experts and recovered patients discuss their recovery experience
and use of prescription drugs to ease their recovery.
Episode 6
“Impact on Families”
Two families discuss losing children to overdose and their trauma having been closely exposed to their kid’s
loss of control and descent into desperation, despair, and ultimate death. A medical expert discusses the
family dynamics of grief and loss. A third family is also shown, featuring a 17- year-old who personally
discovers the overdose deaths of both parents in a 5-month span.
Episode 7
“Adverse Childhood Events and
Drug Treatment Courts”
Drug treatment courts are featured, including the perspective of Native Americans. In addition, the impact of Adverse Childhood Events (ACEs) is explored through the eyes of Will, who overcame a difficult childhood and is now in long-term recovery.
Episode 8
“Voices in Service”
Margo Walsh, Zoo Caine and Joseph Jackson in service to the Recovery Community
Episode 9
“Greeting Crisis With Open Arms”
In episode 9, we meet the hard working teams at Preble Street, Day One and Milestone as they attempt to help Portland’s growing population of youth and adults who battle homelessness, addiction and often impaired mental health.
Episode 10
“Sexploitation”
We meet 4 women who were exploited and trafficked by people in the drug trade. It’s a difficult episode to watch and comes with a warning to young viewers. Nonetheless, when you meet Jessica, Amanda, dee Clarke and Catherine you will be inspired by their resilience and transformation.
Episode 11
Episode 12
In Episode 12 we talk with high school students as they consult with some of the folks we profiled in the series. Together they discuss the challenges that young people face when deciding whether to use drugs and alcohol.