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

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 &amp; 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: <a href="https://www.getsmartaboutdrugs.gov/2024-national-red-ribbon-rally">2024 National Red Ribbon Rally | Get Smart About Drugs</a>
Al-Anon: Al-Anon.tiorg
Meetings: aa.rgroup.org/meengs
NA Meetings: virtual-na.orginte
Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-8255

The Mission

The Supporting Sobriety Podcast is dedicated to providing hope to the unsung heroes behind those struggling with addiction…their friends and family.

We will share insights, stories and resources to help listeners support their loved ones and care for themselves on the recovery journey.

The Hosts

Matt Bair

Matt considers himself blessed to be a recovering alcoholic. His lifetime profession as a radio broadcaster has been derailed multiple times by alcohol abuse but he remains alive and employed through the grace of God and help of others.

Matt lives by the humility introduced in the first step of 12-step recovery, that the alcoholic is truly “powerless over alcohol,” and the alcoholic in use of alcohol possesses a life that is “unmanageable.” He enunciates these beliefs in teaching recovery to alcoholics and addicts, while understanding there’s more to learn from the ones who don’t make it (Keep. Coming. Back). He truly believes everything “always gets better” if you don’t take the next drink or drug. Matt is dedicated to “supporting the supporters” like those who have been critical to his ongoing sobriety.

Matt is the long-time morning and afternoon traffic reporter for WIBC / Indianapolis.

Ryan Hedrick

Ryan Hedrick's life has been a journey of recovery from a challenging battle with addiction spanning nearly 25 years. His struggles with cocaine and methamphetamine led him down a dangerous path, marked by numerous attempts at treatment. However, salvation came in the form of a 12-step program that became his sanctuary.

To break free from the shackles of addiction, Ryan committed himself to giving back to recovery communities nationwide. He extended his support by bringing 12-step meetings to jails and institutions, sponsoring men on their recovery journeys, and regularly attending meetings. Like his co-host, the clutches of drugs and alcohol jeopardized Ryan's life and his career in radio.

Ryan is currently a reporter and morning news anchor at WIBC/Indianapolis where he met his podcast co-host Matt Bair. Together they strive to offer a beacon of hope to those grappling with similar struggles. Their podcast aims to reach and assist individuals behind the scenes by sharing personal experiences, strength, and hope with their followers. Through their collective journey, Ryan and Matt seek to inspire and support those supporting loved ones on the path to recovery.

The Mission
The Supporting Sobriety Podcast is dedicated to providing hope to the unsung heroes behind those struggling with addiction…their friends and family.
We will share insights, stories and resources to help listeners support their loved ones and care for themselves on the recovery journey.
The Hosts 
Matt Bair
Matt considers himself blessed to be a recovering alcoholic. His lifetime profession as a radio broadcaster has been derailed multiple times by alcohol abuse but he remains alive and employed through the grace of God and help of others.
Matt lives by the humility introduced in the first step of 12-step recovery, that the alcoholic is truly “powerless over alcohol,” and the alcoholic in use of alcohol possesses a life that is “unmanageable.” He enunciates these beliefs in teaching recovery to alcoholics and addicts, while understanding there’s more to learn from the ones who don’t make it (Keep. Coming. Back). He truly believes everything “always gets better” if you don’t take the next drink or drug. Matt is dedicated to “supporting the supporters” like those who have been critical to his ongoing sobriety.
Matt is the long-time morning and afternoon traffic reporter for WIBC / Indianapolis.
Ryan Hedrick
Ryan Hedrick's life has been a journey of recovery from a challenging battle with addiction spanning nearly 25 years. His struggles with cocaine and methamphetamine led him down a dangerous path, marked by numerous attempts at treatment. However, salvation came in the form of a 12-step program that became his sanctuary.
To break free from the shackles of addiction, Ryan committed himself to giving back to recovery communities nationwide. He extended his support by bringing 12-step meetings to jails and institutions, sponsoring men on their recovery journeys, and regularly attending meetings. Like his co-host, the clutches of drugs and alcohol jeopardized Ryan's life and his career in radio.
Ryan is currently a reporter and morning news anchor at WIBC/Indianapolis where he met his podcast co-host Matt Bair. Together they strive to offer a beacon of hope to those grappling with similar struggles. Their podcast aims to reach and assist individuals behind the scenes by sharing personal experiences, strength, and hope with their followers. Through their collective journey, Ryan and Matt seek to inspire and support those supporting loved ones on the path to recovery.

Supporting Sobriety Podcast

The Mission
The Supporting Sobriety Podcast is dedicated to providing hope to the unsung heroes behind those struggling with addiction…their friends and family.
We will share insights, stories and resources to help listeners support their loved ones and care for themselves on the recovery journey.
The Hosts
Matt Bair
Matt considers himself blessed to be a recovering alcoholic. His lifetime profession as a radio broadcaster has been derailed multiple times by alcohol abuse but he remains alive and employed through the grace of God and help of others.
Matt lives by the humility introduced in the first step of 12-step recovery, that the alcoholic is truly “powerless over alcohol,” and the alcoholic in use of alcohol possesses a life that is “unmanageable.” He enunciates these beliefs in teaching recovery to alcoholics and addicts, while understanding there’s more to learn from the ones who don’t make it (Keep. Coming. Back). He truly believes everything “always gets better” if you don’t take the next drink or drug. Matt is dedicated to “supporting the supporters” like those who have been critical to his ongoing sobriety.
Matt is the long-time morning and afternoon traffic reporter for WIBC / Indianapolis.
Ryan Hedrick
Ryan Hedrick's life has been a journey of recovery from a challenging battle with addiction spanning nearly 25 years. His struggles with cocaine and methamphetamine led him down a dangerous path, marked by numerous attempts at treatment. However, salvation came in the form of a 12-step program that became his sanctuary.
To break free from the shackles of addiction, Ryan committed himself to giving back to recovery communities nationwide. He extended his support by bringing 12-step meetings to jails and institutions, sponsoring men on their recovery journeys, and regularly attending meetings. Like his co-host, the clutches of drugs and alcohol jeopardized Ryan's life and his career in radio.
Ryan is currently a reporter and morning news anchor at WIBC/Indianapolis where he met his podcast co-host Matt Bair. Together they strive to offer a beacon of hope to those grappling with similar struggles. Their podcast aims to reach and assist individuals behind the scenes by sharing personal experiences, strength, and hope with their followers. Through their collective journey, Ryan and Matt seek to inspire and support those supporting loved ones on the path to recovery.

Episode 40 | Inside the Fentanyl Crisis Part 1

In this third installment of the fentanyl series, Matt Bair and Ryan Hedrick dive deeper into the epidemic, focusing on understanding addiction from all angles, listening to loved ones without judgment, and empowering rather than controlling them. Matt and Ryan discuss their personal journeys with addiction, school experiences, and the support (and challenges) from caregivers. They’re joined by Justin Phillips, Founder and Executive Director of Overdose Lifeline, Inc., to shed light on actionable steps for caregivers and harm reduction.

Key Points:
Big Picture of the Crisis: Fentanyl continues to take lives across the U.S. each year, with many unaware of how to help.
Understanding vs. Control: Caregivers are encouraged to support their loved ones by fostering independence and engaging in open, non-judgmental dialogue.

Timestamps and Discussion Highlights:

4:28 - 5:36 | Recap and Stakes: Matt recaps previous episodes, emphasizing the stakes for loved ones.



5:38 - 7:31 | Addiction and Denial: Ryan reflects on his denial during active addiction, showing how addiction’s grip fuels fentanyl use.



8:13 - 9:47 | Listening to Understand: For caregivers, understanding without judgment is key. Recognize signs like self-centeredness and behavioral shifts.



11:35 - 12:07 | Staying Engaged: Caregivers should ask questions and remain engaged, balancing support with respect for boundaries.



12:25 - 13:00 | Resource, Not Solution: Caregivers are there to guide, not to "fix" addiction; true recovery comes from within.



13:10 - 14:30 | Encouraging Independence: Promoting independence can build your loved one's confidence and structure.



14:35 - 15:43 | Scare Tactics: Matt discusses how scare tactics backfired in his journey, pushing him further into addiction rather than away.



18:04 - 18:54 | Keeping Fentanyl Out: Justin shares tips for caregivers to help keep fentanyl away from loved ones.



19:13 - 20:48 | Personal Loss: Justin shares the tragic loss of her son to an overdose, reflecting on behaviors she missed, and lessons learned.



21:08 - 22:30 | Fentanyl Education: Overdose Lifeline provides resources for those looking to educate themselves on fentanyl risks.



22:05 - 23:30 | Social Media Risk: Awareness about fentanyl purchases on social media is critical for caregivers.



23:31 - 28:00 | Harm Reduction Explained: An introduction to harm reduction—what it is, why it’s effective, and how it supports recovery.



29:01 | Closing Thoughts: Wrapping up, Matt and Ryan emphasize the importance of support, education, and the right approach to caregiving.



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 link: Substance Use Disorder Help and Prevention - Overdose Lifeline

Al-Anon: Al-Anon.tiorg

Meetings: aa.rgroup.org/meengs

NA Meetings: virtual-na.orginte

Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-8255

In this third installment of the fentanyl series, Matt Bair and Ryan Hedrick dive deeper into the epidemic, focusing on understanding addiction from all angles, listening to loved ones without judgment, and empowering rather than controlling them. Matt and Ryan discuss their personal journeys with addiction, school experiences, and the support (and challenges) from caregivers. They’re joined by Justin Phillips, Founder and Executive Director of Overdose Lifeline, Inc., to shed light on actionable steps for caregivers and harm reduction.
Key Points:
<ul>
<li>Big Picture of the Crisis: Fentanyl continues to take lives across the U.S. each year, with many unaware of how to help.</li>
<li>Understanding vs. Control: Caregivers are encouraged to support their loved ones by fostering independence and engaging in open, non-judgmental dialogue.</li>
</ul>
Timestamps and Discussion Highlights:
4:28 - 5:36 | Recap and Stakes: Matt recaps previous episodes, emphasizing the stakes for loved ones.
 
5:38 - 7:31 | Addiction and Denial: Ryan reflects on his denial during active addiction, showing how addiction’s grip fuels fentanyl use.
 
8:13 - 9:47 | Listening to Understand: For caregivers, understanding without judgment is key. Recognize signs like self-centeredness and behavioral shifts.
 
11:35 - 12:07 | Staying Engaged: Caregivers should ask questions and remain engaged, balancing support with respect for boundaries.
 
12:25 - 13:00 | Resource, Not Solution: Caregivers are there to guide, not to "fix" addiction; true recovery comes from within.
 
13:10 - 14:30 | Encouraging Independence: Promoting independence can build your loved one's confidence and structure.
 
14:35 - 15:43 | Scare Tactics: Matt discusses how scare tactics backfired in his journey, pushing him further into addiction rather than away.
 
18:04 - 18:54 | Keeping Fentanyl Out: Justin shares tips for caregivers to help keep fentanyl away from loved ones.
 
19:13 - 20:48 | Personal Loss: Justin shares the tragic loss of her son to an overdose, reflecting on behaviors she missed, and lessons learned.
 
21:08 - 22:30 | Fentanyl Education: Overdose Lifeline provides resources for those looking to educate themselves on fentanyl risks.
 
22:05 - 23:30 | Social Media Risk: Awareness about fentanyl purchases on social media is critical for caregivers.
 
23:31 - 28:00 | Harm Reduction Explained: An introduction to harm reduction—what it is, why it’s effective, and how it supports recovery.
 
29:01 | Closing Thoughts: Wrapping up, Matt and Ryan emphasize the importance of support, education, and the right approach to caregiving.
 
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 link: <a href="https://www.overdoselifeline.org/">Substance Use Disorder Help and Prevention - Overdose Lifeline</a>
Al-Anon: Al-Anon.tiorg
Meetings: aa.rgroup.org/meengs
NA Meetings: virtual-na.orginte
Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-8255

Episode 42 | Fighting the Fentanyl Crisis: Part 3

Matt Bair and Ryan Hedrick continue their conversation about the fentanyl crisis. They explain how dealers lace drugs and how users use social media to communicate with dealers, often using emojis to hide their actions from loved ones and police.



This episode builds on our ongoing series about fentanyl, which has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives in recent years. Two women from a treatment center in Indianapolis share their stories of fentanyl overdose.



Timestamps and Key Discussions:

4:02 - 12:45: Insights from women at Harbor Light, their shocking comments on fentanyl, and our reactions.



13:01 - 13:56: Ryan recalls a story where a crack dealer explained the need for coded language in user-dealer communication.



14:26 - 18:49: Discussion on common emojis used by dealers and users to communicate about drugs.



18:54 - 20:11: Some dealers use fake test strip photos to claim their drugs are fentanyl-free. Why this happens.



20:14 - 24:15: Narcan as a short-term solution and the difference between recovery and Narcan’s impact. Ryan explains why people in recovery don't consider Narcan as part of recovery.



25:20 - 28:00: Closing thoughts.



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! 

Al-Anon: Al-Anon.tiorg

Meetings: aa.rgroup.org/meengs

NA Meetings: virtual-na.orginte

Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-8255

Matt Bair and Ryan Hedrick continue their conversation about the fentanyl crisis. They explain how dealers lace drugs and how users use social media to communicate with dealers, often using emojis to hide their actions from loved ones and police.
 
This episode builds on our ongoing series about fentanyl, which has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives in recent years. Two women from a treatment center in Indianapolis share their stories of fentanyl overdose.
 
Timestamps and Key Discussions:
4:02 - 12:45: Insights from women at Harbor Light, their shocking comments on fentanyl, and our reactions.
 
13:01 - 13:56: Ryan recalls a story where a crack dealer explained the need for coded language in user-dealer communication.
 
14:26 - 18:49: Discussion on common emojis used by dealers and users to communicate about drugs.
 
18:54 - 20:11: Some dealers use fake test strip photos to claim their drugs are fentanyl-free. Why this happens.
 
20:14 - 24:15: Narcan as a short-term solution and the difference between recovery and Narcan’s impact. Ryan explains why people in recovery don't consider Narcan as part of recovery.
 
25:20 - 28:00: Closing thoughts.
 
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! 
Al-Anon: Al-Anon.tiorg
Meetings: aa.rgroup.org/meengs
NA Meetings: virtual-na.orginte
Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-8255

Episode 41 | Fentanyl's Deadly Crisis Part 2

Matt Bair and Ryan Hedrick discuss how everyday household items can be used as drug paraphernalia. They cover items like PVC pipes, spoons, and even fruit. The episode is about helping caregivers recognize these things, but the focus is on behavior changes as the real warning signs. Instead of getting caught up in objects, pay attention to how your loved one is acting.



Timestamps & Key Takeaways:

5:35 - 6:38: Ryan shares how he and his friends used bounce sheets and toilet paper rolls to trick their parents and hide their drug use.



6:50 - 8:09: Matt talks about early warning signs of someone starting to use drugs or alcohol. Look out for shifts in behavior or routines.



8:13 - 9:06: Matt’s “favorite” paraphernalia was an empty liquor bottle—highlighting how addicts can get attached to these objects.



9:15 - 11:15: Matt shares how his “dealer” was just the liquor store, and Ryan talks about the distinct smell of cocaine.



11:39 - 12:30: Fentanyl can be odorless, making it harder to detect. The paraphernalia used for fentanyl can vary widely.



12:44 - 15:15: Toiletry items are often repurposed for smoking weed. Addicts get creative fruit, like apples and oranges, can also be used for drug use.



15:16 - 16:07: Money is a common tool for people ingesting drugs like cocaine or other powders.



16:08 - 17:30: Spoons are often linked to heroin use. Check the bottom of spoons—if it’s burnt, it could be a sign of use.



17:45 - 18:15: Matt describes how a mask can be used to inhale substances and get high.



18:20 - 19:30: Ryan shares his experience using a light bulb to smoke drugs.



19:40 - 21:00: A "bullet" is a small container that holds cocaine, making it easy to conceal. Caregivers should be aware of this item.



21:00 - 24:00: Visine and sunglasses can also be signs—used to hide bloodshot eyes or dilated pupils.



25:15: Closing Thoughts—Stay aware of behavior changes more than objects. Paraphernalia can be anything, but how your loved one acts is always the best indicator.



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! 

Al-Anon: Al-Anon.tiorg

Meetings: aa.rgroup.org/meengs

NA Meetings: virtual-na.orginte

Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-8255

Matt Bair and Ryan Hedrick discuss how everyday household items can be used as drug paraphernalia. They cover items like PVC pipes, spoons, and even fruit. The episode is about helping caregivers recognize these things, but the focus is on behavior changes as the real warning signs. Instead of getting caught up in objects, pay attention to how your loved one is acting.
 
Timestamps &amp; Key Takeaways:
5:35 - 6:38: Ryan shares how he and his friends used bounce sheets and toilet paper rolls to trick their parents and hide their drug use.
 
6:50 - 8:09: Matt talks about early warning signs of someone starting to use drugs or alcohol. Look out for shifts in behavior or routines.
 
8:13 - 9:06: Matt’s “favorite” paraphernalia was an empty liquor bottle—highlighting how addicts can get attached to these objects.
 
9:15 - 11:15: Matt shares how his “dealer” was just the liquor store, and Ryan talks about the distinct smell of cocaine.
 
11:39 - 12:30: Fentanyl can be odorless, making it harder to detect. The paraphernalia used for fentanyl can vary widely.
 
12:44 - 15:15: Toiletry items are often repurposed for smoking weed. Addicts get creative fruit, like apples and oranges, can also be used for drug use.
 
15:16 - 16:07: Money is a common tool for people ingesting drugs like cocaine or other powders.
 
16:08 - 17:30: Spoons are often linked to heroin use. Check the bottom of spoons—if it’s burnt, it could be a sign of use.
 
17:45 - 18:15: Matt describes how a mask can be used to inhale substances and get high.
 
18:20 - 19:30: Ryan shares his experience using a light bulb to smoke drugs.
 
19:40 - 21:00: A "bullet" is a small container that holds cocaine, making it easy to conceal. Caregivers should be aware of this item.
 
21:00 - 24:00: Visine and sunglasses can also be signs—used to hide bloodshot eyes or dilated pupils.
 
25:15: Closing Thoughts—Stay aware of behavior changes more than objects. Paraphernalia can be anything, but how your loved one acts is always the best indicator.
 
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! 
Al-Anon: Al-Anon.tiorg
Meetings: aa.rgroup.org/meengs
NA Meetings: virtual-na.orginte
Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-8255

Episode 40 | Inside the Fentanyl Crisis Part 1

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