Episodes
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In the heart of America’s fentanyl crisis, one county is doing what many thought impossible—bringing overdose rates down.
In this episode we are joined by Commander Tom Fallon, of Hamilton County’s Heroin Task Force, to discuss how local law enforcement, through strategic partnerships and innovative community outreach, has succeeded in reducing fentanyl overdoses in the county. Commander Fallon also reveals that the real war is fought far from the public eye—with mothers who’ve lost their children, communities on the brink, and doctors who unknowingly set the stage for addiction.
We also discuss:
How community-centric policing builds trust to drive effective intervention in Hamilton County’s fentanyl crisis.Why tackling the Dark Web’s role in trafficking is vital as cartels use digital channels to spread fentanyl, pushing law enforcement to adapt.The importance of Narcan access and addiction education in saving lives and reshaping public attitudes on addiction.The impact of a new generation of officers blending empathy with enforcement for sustainable change in communities. -
Each person who struggles with drug addiction has a unique story. And regardless of how they got there, they are all humans and deserve to be treated with empathy.
In this episode, we are joined by Dennis Lowe, Commander of the South Central Ohio Major Crimes Unit, who has spent 40 years in law enforcement and is leading a unique model of community-driven policing. Commander Lowe and Michael Brown discuss the challenges associated with transitioning towards a more empathetic law enforcement approach, without abandoning strict measures, and building trust around state’s institutions.
We also discuss: How the FORT Project helps reduce recidivism and foster long-term recovery by addressing the root causes of substance use.Why a balanced approach of empathy and enforcement can create lasting change in communities facing drug crises.The role of cultural sensitivity education in police officers to engage diverse communities affected by the opioid crisis. -
Episodes manquant?
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Cartel operations go far beyond drugs—they are entrenched in the internal economies of countries, exercising control across multiple industries.
In this episode, we are joined by Chris Dalby, Director of World of Crime and author of World of Crime Guides to Organized Crime, to explore the scope of the cartel networks. Chris shares all things about the Jalisco Cartel New Generation (CJNG), revealing this syndicate’s brutality, extortion tactics, and control over fentanyl and meth production globally. We discuss why traditional law enforcement strategies aren't working, and how the flow of precursor chemicals from China plays a pivotal role in fentanyl production.
Listeners will learn:
How the CJNG cartel became one of Mexico’s most violent and flexible criminal organizations, and why they pose a unique threat.The role of precursor chemicals from China, why seizures at the border aren’t enough, and how the cartel adapts to crackdowns.What can be done to tackle the cartel threat, from addressing money laundering to targeting the global supply chain of precursor chemicals.
To make sure you never miss an episode of The Opioid Matrix, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the website, or your favorite podcast player.
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In today’s episode, we are once again joined by Margarito "Jay" Flores, Jr., a former distributor for the Sinaloa Cartel, for part two of our series inside one of the most notorious criminal organizations in the world.
Michael and Jay pick up the conversation right where they left off, delving deeper into the challenges of dismantling these criminal networks and examining the strategies in the war against drugs. They also talk about how Jay’s approach to the US government set a precedent of collaboration to put cartels down.
You can learn more about Jay’s background and work by going to his websites https://kingpintoeducator.com/ and https://dynamicpolicetraining.com/.
To make sure you never miss an episode of The Opioid Matrix, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the website, or your favorite podcast player.
Listening on a desktop and can’t see the links? Just search for The Opioid Matrix in your favorite podcast player. -
Money is the engine of drug trafficking. Without it, organized crime would cease to exist.
Does this mean that efforts to end the drug crisis in America should focus more heavily on targeting money instead of drugs? Are there reasons why this hasn’t been the strategy in the past?
In this two-part series episode, we are joined by Margarito "Jay" Flores, Jr., who operated a distribution network for the Sinaloa cartel, as he pulls back the curtain on the financial empire of the world’s most notorious cartel, exposing the intricate web of drug trafficking and money laundering that fuels the opioid crisis and corrupts institutions and people both inside and outside of the United States. Michael and Jay explore the generational impact of drug trafficking on American cities and the challenges law enforcement faces in disrupting the flow of precursor chemicals essential for drug production.
Join us as we discuss:
The supply chain systems behind smuggling vast amounts of cash and drugs across international borders and distributing them nationwide.The role of advanced technology in modern drug trafficking and money launderingThe tactics used by the Sinaloa Cartel to avoid detection by law enforcement agencies.Personal stories of betrayal, survival, and redemption within the cartel world.
You can learn more about Jay’s background and work by going to his websites https://kingpintoeducator.com/ and https://dynamicpolicetraining.com/.
Stay tuned for Part 2.
To make sure you never miss an episode of The Opioid Matrix, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the website, or your favorite podcast player.
Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for The Opioid Matrix in your favorite podcast player. -
Getting sober is often seen as the milestone of ending drug addiction, and many policies and projects are designed with this approach in mind.
However, without proper healthcare, supportive communities, and tools to stay sober, people often relapse into an endless cycle that continues to fuel the opioid crisis.
In this episode, we are joined by two unifying voices fighting the opioid crisis: Andrea Thomas, Founder and Executive Director of Voices for Awareness, and Michael Fiore, Founder of Inspire2Inspire, as well as the Director of Community Outreach at Voices for Awareness. Andrea and Michael share their deep bond that transcends their mission, and discuss their efforts to bring hope and practical solutions to those affected by fentanyl through prevention, education, and healthcare accessibility. They also discuss the importance of a unified legislative effort to address this critical issue, and how they are fighting for the future of the nation.
Join us as we discuss:
Overcoming addiction and transforming personal experiences into a message of hopeAddressing the stigma surrounding drug use and addiction to drive empathetic, social transformationsThe importance of collaboration among various groups and organizations to achieve long-term solutionsUpcoming initiatives for August 21 - National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day (check out Facing Fentanyl Now’s website for more details)
To make sure you never miss an episode of The Opioid Matrix, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the website, or your favorite podcast player.
Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for The Opioid Matrix in your favorite podcast player.
You can reach out to Andrea Thomas emailing her at [email protected], and follow Mike on Instagram @MikeFiore118. -
No matter how much money is allocated to fight the opioid epidemic, if it’s not sustained by strong, systemic approaches and policies, the fight won’t succeed.
In this episode, we are joined by a long-time guest of the show, Scott Silverman, CEO and Founder at Confidential Recovery, as he explores California's drug policies, the exploitation of legal marijuana by cartels, and the significant role of government in these crises. The author of The Opioid Epidemic: What You Don’t Know Will Destroy Your Family and Your Life, shares his thoughts on the need for better education, prevention strategies, and family support systems to fight drug addiction advocating for systemic approaches to end the opioid epidemic.
Join us as we discuss:How the homelessness crisis in California is exponentially rising and it’s relation to the drug crisisThe importance of strong family units and the impact of cultural and tribal thinking in community well-being, reducing the risk of drug abuseWhy the US needs stringent criteria and accountability for both government leaders and social programs, advocating for better allocation of resources
To make sure you never miss an episode of The Opioid Matrix, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the website, or your favorite podcast player.
Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for The Opioid Matrix in your favorite podcast player. -
"How do prosecutors handle the evolving illicit drug market and how has it impacted our judicial system?"
As fentanyl-related deaths continue to rise nationwide, our legal system now faces a new paradigm in seeking justice for so many lives lost.
In this episode, we are joined by Paul Ostrow, Chairman of the Fentanyl Free Communities Policy Board. He and host Michael Brown delve into the urgent and complex opioid crisis affecting communities across the nation, with a focus on the Midwest. Paul, drawing on his prosecutorial experience and commitment to justice, community improvement, and policy-driven solutions, emphasizes the need to support law enforcement while advocating for systemic changes.
Join us as we discuss:
The consequences of public drug policies and how that plays into an increase in criminal activity and court casesHow the $200 million allocated budget is being used to combat substance abuse in Minnesota.Why fentanyl possession penalties need to be reassessed to be effective and prevent deaths.
To make sure you never miss an episode of The Opioid Matrix, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the website, or your favorite podcast player.
Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for The Opioid Matrix in your favorite podcast player. -
'It takes an entire country to protect the country.'
But when we're talking about deep and complex geopolitical dynamics, is a united country enough to tackle the illicit drug crisis our nation currently faces?
In this episode, we are honored to have Andrew Edelberg, Senior Trial Attorney at Aivazoglou & Mikropoulos - located in the Philadelphia area, share his extensive experience in the legal and law enforcement fields. Andrew addresses the systemic issues in mental health and substance abuse treatment and the harsh realities in cities like Philadelphia and San Diego, and he also exposes the deep-rooted challenges and corruption faced by the US, Mexican, and Chinese governments in combating the drug epidemic, and why it takes a worldwide effort to end the opioid crisis.
Join us as we discuss:
The decrease in police presence, leading to increased violence and open-air drug markets, particularly in areas like Kensington.The increased crime and homelessness issues as a direct result of unchecked drug abuse and inadequate intervention measures.Different points of view around first-time offender programs, with some authorities preferring punitive measures over treatment.The challenges in prosecuting drug-related crimes due to trade and political partnerships between the US and Mexico.How the $50 billion opioid settlement is being used, raising concerns about transparency and proper allocation.To make sure you never miss an episode of The Opioid Matrix, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the website, or your favorite podcast player.
Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for The Opioid Matrix in your favorite podcast player. -
To tackle the drug crisis, relying solely on law enforcement is no longer sufficient.
With cartels employing increasingly sophisticated trafficking tactics, leveraging community engagement and education has become a priority.
In this episode, Orville Greene, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. DEA Detroit Field Division, joins host Michael Brown to delve into how the DEA's jurisdiction is adding value to agency operations. They explore the value of forging strategic partnerships with community organizations, gaining firsthand insight into local challenges and concerns. SAC Orville also sheds light on the complexities of combating internet drug trafficking and discusses both the existing tools and areas needing improvement in addressing the opioid crisis.
We also discuss: SAC Greene’s partnerships with organizations like Fentanyl Fathers and their significant societal contributionsThe potential impact of progressive drug policies on DEA operations and the battle against drug addictionThe imperative of a multi-agency approach in dismantling the drug supply chain
To make sure you never miss an episode of The Opioid Matrix, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the website, or your favorite podcast player.
Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for The Opioid Matrix in your favorite podcast player. -
How has marijuana changed since the days when Paul McCartney composed ‘Got to Get You into My Life’ in 1966?
In this episode, we take a deep dive into the history and trends of marijuana with Jaime Zerbe, Chief of Staff at Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM). Sam is made up of an alliance of organizations and individuals dedicated to a health-first approach to marijuana policy. Jaime shares her perspective on marijuana consumption based on science.
Join us as we discuss:
How marijuana is often marketedThe cultural shift toward normalizing drug useThe analysis of marijuana legalization
To make sure you never miss an episode of The Opioid Matrix, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the website, or your favorite podcast player.
Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for The Opioid Matrix in your favorite podcast player. -
Find purpose from loss
In this powerful conversation, our guest Michele Hein, shares her tragic story as a mother who has faced unimaginable loss and emerged as a front-line activist in the battle against Fentanyl. After losing her beloved son, Tyler, to fentanyl poisoning, Michele's grief is transformed into advocacy as she leads the charge with Fentanyl Free Communities to save other families from a similar fate.
As fentanyl-related deaths skyrocket, we’ll examine why existing legislation falls short and what it truly means to approach substance use disorder and mental health stigmas with hope for substantive change. This episode is not just a discussion; it's a call to arms. We can’t afford to look away any longer.
Join us as we discuss:
The piercing insight Michele provides on how fentanyl isn't just a poisoning crisis but a national security threat that's been largely ignored.Broken policies that are causing a delay in the response to the opioid crisis The cohesive work between Fentanyl Free Communities and their collaboration with law enforcement to bring stability and hope to those in need.
To make sure you never miss an episode of The Opioid Matrix, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the website, or your favorite podcast player.
Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for The Opioid Matrix in your favorite podcast player. -
In today’s episode, we dive deep into the shadowy world of drug production and its far-reaching financial tentacles. We're peeling back layers of the global drug trade, estimated at a staggering $2 trillion that is led by some formidable players who have mastered money laundering operations...
Listen in as Gary Lawrence draws from his own experiences as a retired DEA Supervisory Special Agent, current Financial Crimes Advisor, and Veteran, to share how crucial it is that we stop the enemy at America’s gates. Gary reveals the secrets behind Chinese money laundering and how current government policies could be enabling addiction, as well as encouraging our enemies to keep pursuing drug trafficking.
Join us as we discuss:
Gary’s background in law enforcement and the DEASynergy Between Mexican Cartels and Chinese CompaniesThe pressing need for strategic policy response to drug trafficking The perceived reduction in legal risk leading to increased drug use in America
To make sure you never miss an episode of The Opioid Matrix, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the website, or your favorite podcast player.
Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for The Opioid Matrix in your favorite podcast player. -
Dr. Cristina Utti, an educator and author of 'Breaking Infinity.' speaks from the heart about her journey through her near fatal substance abuse and eating disorders. Together we’ll reflect on the complex web of family dynamics and the repeating cycles of behavior passed down through generations.
We dive deep into the reality of growing up in a broken home, the normalization of risky behaviors among our youth, and the pressing need for supportive conversations between parents and children.
Join us as we discuss:Cristina's Childhood and Personal Journey to RecoveryThe Effects of a Broken Family and How to Prevent it The Danger of Potential Drug Addiction for Future Generations
To make sure you never miss an episode of The Opioid Matrix, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the website, or your favorite podcast player.
Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for The Opioid Matrix in your favorite podcast player.
If you would like to know more or purchase Dr. Crisitina Utti's book, Breaking Infinity: A Memoir, you can do so by going to Amazon.com. -
In today’s episode, Julie Waters, founder of the Jace Waters Foundation shares her journey of losing her son to addiction and the work she is doing to support others in the fight against opioid addiction. She discusses the importance of long-term recovery programs and the need for supportive communities. Julie goes into detail about the stigma surrounding substance use disorder and the need for open conversations and advocacy. She also highlights the role of parents in prevention, education and the challenges of modernization and technology on family dynamics.
Join us as we discuss:
Exploring the unseen impact of addiction in small-town America.Julie Waters' heartfelt story of loss and her efforts to fight addiction through the Jace Waters Foundation.Insights into the rising danger of fentanyl and the complex journey toward recovery.
To make sure you never miss an episode of The Opioid Matrix, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the website, or your favorite podcast player.
Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for The Opioid Matrix in your favorite podcast player. -
Our children represent the very future of society. However, without vigorously confronting the opioid crisis, how can we guarantee their protection?
In today’s episode, Javon Williams, Founder of the Lamont Meyers Foundation, bravely opens her heart about the heart-wrenching loss of her son to Fentanyl poisoning and the journey of resilience this has led her to. Javon highlights the danger of the lack of public awareness surrounding the opioid crisis and emphasizes why we need to speak out to bring the invisible enemy, and the network under which it operates, out of the shadows.
Join us as we discuss:
Challenges of parenting amidst societal pressure on drug abuse and consumptionThe urgent need for community education, awareness and collective action in combating the opioid crisisThe emotional trauma and ongoing struggle experienced by parents who have lost children to drugsWhy prescription pills can become a death threat nowadays
To make sure you never miss an episode of The Opioid Matrix, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the website, or your favorite podcast player.
Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for The Opioid Matrix in your favorite podcast player. -
To anyone out there with a loved one who’s struggling, don't ever give up compassion because it's not a moral failing; your loved one simply doesn’t know how to handle what’s going on in their life.
In this powerful and inspiring episode, Chris Cull dives deep into the challenges of addressing substance abuse, the impact of the opioid crisis in Canada, and the crucial role of authentic and relatable communication in prevention efforts. Chris, a former opioid user turned inspirational figure, shares his journey throughout addiction and recovery that ultimately led to his journey across Canada. His story of resilience offers hope in the fight against addiction. Tune in for an insightful discussion on tackling addiction and the resilience that arises from difficult experiences.
Join us as we discuss:Chris's story, highlighting his successful transition away from drug useAddressing substance abuse among youthThe opioid crisis in Canada: overprescribing, drug diversion, and the involvement of cartelsThe significance of advocacy, collaboration, and hope in addressing addiction, drug abuse and mental health
Tap here for all links pertaining to Chris Cull, his story, and the meaningful work he’s doing today.
To make sure you never miss an episode of The Opioid Matrix, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the website, or your favorite podcast player.
Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for The Opioid Matrix in your favorite podcast player. -
Fentanyl is the bullet, but it's the Mexican cartels that are pointing the gun at our children and pulling the trigger.
In today's episode, we are honored to have Jaime Ignacio Puerto Gonzales, President of V.O.I.D "Victims Of Illicit Drugs" and Co-Chair of Facing Fentanyl Now, joining us to shed light on the far-reaching impact of Fentanyl and the legislative and societal challenges that have hindered efforts to combat this deadly substance.
Jaime, a US Marine Corps veteran, shares his personal journey and the heart-wrenching loss of his son, Daniel, to Fentanyl poisoning on April 6, 2020. As he delves into his advocacy work and the mission of V.O.I.D., we gain valuable insights into the deceitful tactics of drug cartels, the need for legislative reform, and the urgent call for awareness and collaboration on a global scale.
Join us as we discuss:
Social media and its disturbing trends in Fentanyl distributionHow Proposition 47 and 57 are impacting law enforcement and public safety in CaliforniaImpact of harm reduction groups in addressing the Fentanyl crisisThe role that schools and educational institutions can play in raising awareness about Fentanyl and preventing its distribution among young peopleAdditional Link: Dead on Arrival Documentary
To make sure you never miss an episode of The Opioid Matrix, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the website, or your favorite podcast player.
Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for The Opioid Matrix in your favorite podcast player. -
Our guest, Danielle Burkett, had everything stacked against her. Even when navigating an unstable upbringing and childhood trauma, she knew at a young age helping children in her position is something she wanted to do. This desire stuck with her through years of substance use, mental health issues, crime, and eventually incarceration.
Now as a single mother who recently suffered from a stroke, she is still driven by that childhood passion, achieving her Master’s degree in Social Work, and beginning her own non-profit, "Unlikely Journeys" geared toward youth and parents. Danielle has made it her purpose to plant seeds of compassion, love, non-judgment, and gratitude in the lives of youth through her initiative.
Join us as we discuss:
The power of having a clear mind and being able to voice repressed traumaThe importance of teaching crucial aspects in schools that might be overlooked at homeThe practice of gratitude and its transformative powerThe concept of having a "peer coach" and its pivotal role in personal development
To make sure you never miss an episode of The Opioid Matrix, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the website, or your favorite podcast player.
Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for The Opioid Matrix in your favorite podcast player. -
Without International partnerships and cooperation, we’re not going to win this battle.
In this episode, we delve into the complex and harrowing world of Mexican cartel and crime along the U.S. southern border, featuring a discussion with Larry Villalobos, a seasoned DEA analyst who has worked with the State Department in Mexico, the US military, DHS components, and a local university. Our guest shares eye-opening insights about the impact of drug legalization, the shifting dynamics of drug cartels, and the urgent need for international cooperation to combat the fentanyl precursor chemical supply chain.
Join us as we discuss:
Differences on opposing sides of the borderThe negative effects of drug legalization, including the societal impact of the crisisForeign partnerships in combating drug traffickingPushing back on progressive dreamsTo make sure you never miss an episode of The Opioid Matrix, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the website, or your favorite podcast player.
Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for The Opioid Matrix in your favorite podcast player. - Montre plus
