2022-2023 Episodes
Voices of Hope episodes, originally aired on Maine Public in 2022, were rebroadcast during Jan-Feb, 2023. Two new episodes, entitled “Understanding Today’s Marijuana,” were also aired in February. Additional episodes will be available here, after their premiere date later in 2023.
Episode 1
“Worked for me – at first”
Young people who recount how substances initially “worked for them”, whether they were fitting in and partying, dulling the pain caused by trauma, or just experimenting. Their early experience was mostly positive. Medical experts discuss the impact on the brain from substance use and our cast then explains how drugs and alcohol led to a slow descent into addiction.
Episode 2
“Descent Into Darkness & Choosing Recovery”
In Episode 2, our cast discusses full scale addiction and attempts at recovery. Relapse is discussed as a likely component in any recovery program. Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) and 12 Step programs are highlighted as important factors for recovery and personal transformation
Episode 3
“Impact on Families“
Inspiration in Episode 3 comes from families who have been impacted by the death of loved ones. Meet these courageous people as they describe how they cope with their loss by serving others.
Episode 4
“ACEs & Resiliency”
Explores SUD in Native American Communities, drug courts and Adverse Childhood Events.
Episode 5
“The Natural High“
Explores how we can pursue natural highs in recovery and methods to counter-act anxiety in youth.
Episode 6
“Life on the Street“
Follow first responders and social service agencies as they try to meet the needs of the vulnerable homeless population in Portland.
Episode 7
“Understanding Today’s Marijuana“
Part 1 explores how the Marijuana Industry has increased the potency of THC to make it more addictive and how the hallucinogenic substance increases the liklihood of mental illness and psychosis.
Episode 8
“Understanding Today’s Marijuana“
Part 2 explores the link between high-potency marijuana and mental illness, psychosis, and an increase in bizarre violent acts, as referenced in the poignant life-and-death story of Johnny Stack and narrated by his mother Laura Stack, founder of Johnny’s Ambassadors.