Matt Bair and Ryan Hedrick dive into the complexities of the fentanyl crisis, discussing how the drug has killed hundreds of thousands in recent years. Fentanyl is dangerous not only because of its strength but also because it's often mixed with other drugs. People are using it both knowingly and unknowingly, as it's found in pills, powder, and even marijuana. Law enforcement is seeing more fentanyl in traffic stops and raids across the country.

Special Guest:
Michael Gannon, Assistant Special Agent in Charge (DEA-Indianapolis), joins the show to discuss enforcement, prevention, and education efforts around the fentanyl crisis.

Timestamps & Key Discussions:

19:37 - 20:33: Gannon explains the two types of fentanyl – one prescribed by doctors and the other made by drug traffickers and shipped across the U.S.

20:34 - 22:25: Gannon reflects on when fentanyl became a significant problem, recalling his time as a lead agent in Florida. He highlights how fentanyl has caused a rise in overdose deaths.

23:06 - 26:39: There's never been a more dangerous time to use drugs. The DEA warns against taking pills unless prescribed by a doctor, emphasizing the risks of accepting drugs from friends.

27:04 - 29:34: Gannon illustrates the potency of fentanyl, comparing lethal doses to the size of a pencil tip or penny. He shares heartbreaking stories from 911 calls, including a young girl who lost her father to an overdose.

30:00 - 32:00: Discussion on carfentanil, a tranquilizer for elephants, which is now being mixed into street drugs. Gannon also names cartels involved in trafficking fentanyl.

32:15 - 34:15: People are being poisoned by drug dealers selling fentanyl, and Gannon talks about the difficulties in prosecuting these cases.

35:15 - 36:41: Gannon explains Red Ribbon Week, paying tribute to DEA Special Agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena, whose death inspired the movement for a drug-free nation.

Resources: 

You can find us on X and Instagram: @sobriety_pod. Supporting Sobriety is also available on major podcast platforms like Spotify and Apple. Please like, subscribe, and rate our podcast! 

Guest resource: 2024 National Red Ribbon Rally | Get Smart About Drugs

Al-Anon: Al-Anon.tiorg

Meetings: aa.rgroup.org/meengs

NA Meetings: virtual-na.orginte

Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-8255