Shows
The Drug ReportBreaking the Silence: How PAL Gives Hope to Parents of Addicted Loved OnesWhat happens when a veteran police commander discovers both his sons are addicted to heroin? Kim Humphrey, Executive Director of Parents of Addicted Loved Ones (PAL), takes us on a deeply personal journey through the darkest valleys of family addiction and into the light of recovery and hope.Despite three decades in law enforcement, Kim never saw addiction coming to his own home. When a concerned parent called to warn that his teenage son might overdose, Kim and his wife initially denied the possibility. "You called the wrong house," his wife insisted. This moment began a decade-long...
2025-08-0430 minThe Drug ReportSNEAK PEEK: Kevin Talks About His New Book Here FirstAmerica stands at a crossroads in our battle against addiction, facing the deadliest drug crisis in our nation’s history. With over 100,000 overdose deaths annually, the devastation is undeniable—but so are the solutions. In this special episode, you’ll get an exclusive first look into Kevin’s groundbreaking new book, One Nation Under the Influence.Kevin reveals how proven prevention strategies could slash regular drug use by two-thirds and highlights innovative criminal justice programs like Hawaii’s Project HOPE, which has successfully reduced methamphetamine use by 70%. He explores lessons from America’s dramatic reduction in cigarette smoking and...
2025-07-1025 min
High Truths on Drugs and Addiction236. Luke Niforatos | Smart Drug PolicyThere are different opinions on smart drug policies. Some want to decriminalize all drugs, some promote all drug legalization, and there is drug commercialization. What is the balanced approach from international experts? Luke Niforatos with Foundation for Drug Policy Solutions discusses what an expert panel recommends.
Luke Niforatos serves as the Executive Vice President of Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM) and the Foundation for Drug Policy Solutions (FDPS) and is widely recognized as one of the nation’s leading drug policy experts. Leveraging more than a decade working on drug, addiction and health care issues, Luke drives th...
2025-06-3056 minThe Drug ReportWhat's Next in U.S. Drug Policy?Drug policy in America is at a critical inflection point. Following a period dominated by extreme harm reduction approaches, we're witnessing a significant shift back toward accountability-based treatment models. This transformation comes as cities like San Francisco and states like Oregon roll back failed experiments that provided tools for addiction without addressing its root causes.Dr. Kevin Sabet joins us fresh from United Nations meetings in Vienna, where American representation was noticeably diminished – a symptom of the current administration's still-developing drug policy strategy. Together, we analyze Dr. Nora Volkow's recent Stat News interview, where the longtime NIDA Di...
2025-03-1812 minThe Drug ReportInterview with Dr. Robert Marbut about his upcoming film, "Fentanyl: Death Incorporated"The fentanyl crisis represents one of America's most pressing public health emergencies, one that has affected countless families and communities across the country. In this engaging episode with Dr. Robert Marbut, we explore the alarming statistics surrounding fentanyl's impact, which has become a leading cause of death, eclipsing even the toll from warfare. Dr. Marbut, a distinguished expert on homelessness and addiction, unpacks the connection between structural issues like mental health and substance use, shedding light on the intricacies of these intertwined crises. Throughout our conversation, we delve into how societal factors such as loneliness and consumer c...
2025-02-2735 minThe Drug ReportNew York OCM Celebrating Marijuana Profits, New York Times StoriesHigh THC cannabis products are under intense scrutiny, and with good reason. Kevin Sabet, CEO of SAM Smart Approaches to Marijuana, joins us to dissect the cannabis industry's parallels with big tobacco, especially concerning unproven health claims and the relentless drive for profit. We examine a noteworthy New York Times article and question whether New York's $1 billion in cannabis sales is worth the potential cost to public health. Our discussion focuses on prioritizing health over profit, learning from the tobacco industry's past mistakes, and the crucial role of effective regulation in safeguarding public health. Our global audience i...
2025-01-2814 minThe Drug ReportDrug Policy News & Policy Outlook for New CongressCan relentless advocacy truly shape the future of marijuana legislation? Join us on the Drug Report podcast as we explore the recent triumph in New Hampshire, where the unwavering efforts of advocates have led Governor Kelly Ayotte to promise a veto on any future marijuana legalization attempts. This victory shines a light on the power of persistence in the ever-evolving landscape of drug policy. As we navigate through these pivotal changes, we're also dissecting the challenges faced by the marijuana industry in New York, revealing how initial promises of social equity have not been fulfilled, leaving many equity applicants...
2025-01-1523 minThe Drug ReportBig Wins Against Marijuana: How Local Advocacy Overcame Marijuana LegalizationCould the defeat of Florida's marijuana legalization measure signal a turning tide in drug policy across America? Despite an avalanche of financial backing and celebrity endorsements, Florida's initiative fell short, leaving many to question the power dynamics at play. Join us as we unpack the surprising outcome, delving into the influential role of grassroots campaigns and bipartisan voices, such as the powerful advocacy from former congresswoman Donna Shalala. Discover how "Don't Let Florida Go to Pot" captured the public's attention and vote, challenging the narrative that financial clout guarantees success in the ballot box.Explore the broader...
2024-11-0619 minThe Drug ReportGlobal Insights on Drug Policy: Highlights from the Lisbon Addictions ConferenceDiscover the complexities of today's drug policy landscape with insights from around the globe. We promise an enlightening journey as Kevin Sabat and I unpack the highlights from the recent Lisbon Addictions Conference. We bring you the latest updates and debates on harm reduction versus legalization, spotlighting data-driven discussions from regions like Oregon and British Columbia. As we shift focus to the United States, uncover the stories behind various drug policy ballot measures, including marijuana legalization efforts in Florida and the Dakotas. The challenges New York faces in its legalization journey serve as a cautionary tale, and we even...
2024-10-2810 minThe Drug ReportBreaking Down VP Harris' Marijuana PlanIs federal marijuana legalization truly a win for Black men, or are there hidden pitfalls? Join us as we take a hard look at Vice President Kamala Harris's proposal, focusing on its goal to dismantle systemic barriers and whether it achieves this when it poses new public health risks. With insightful commentary from Will Jones of SAM, we unravel the intricate dynamics between promising business opportunities and the risks of corporate exploitation in the marijuana industry. By drawing parallels with historical public health challenges like the tobacco industry's impact, we critically question whether this federal move could inadvertently harm...
2024-10-1515 minThe Drug ReportDrug Policy News RoundupCan marijuana regulation backfire on public health? Join us on the Drug Report podcast as we celebrate International Recovery Day and tackle this provocative question with insights from experts like Michael Botticelli and John Kelly. We'll share highlights from a global webinar focused on the mechanisms and societal support necessary for successful recovery. We'll also respond to Robert Gebeloff's Washington Post column advocating for federal marijuana regulation, raising concerns about big tobacco's potential entry into the marijuana market and the resulting public health issues. Plus, you'll hear a detailed recount of the recent debate on Florida's Amendment 3 for recreational...
2024-09-3011 min
Federal Sales and Government Contracting (Neil McDonnell)3 Foolproof Strategies to Find Federal AgenciesHow do you find Federal Agencies who buy what you sell?✅ In this training, GovCon Chamber president Neil McDonnell explainsHow to Use Your Top 3 NAICS Codes & PSC to focus your researchWhich agencies buy what you sell usingSAM.gov, FPDS.gov, USASpending.gov, Long-Range Acquisition Forecasts (LRAF), Industry Days & APBIs and GSA eBuyLet Your Competitors Teach You✅ Join us on LinkedIn to build your network and engaging other in the largest Government Contracting community online.–––––––––––––––––––––––––HOST | Neil McDonnellpresident GovCon Chamber of Commerce and co-founder of GovCon in a Boxhttps://www.l...
2024-09-2327 minThe Drug ReportFDA's Role in THC-Infused EdiblesCan the FDA really pull THC-infused edibles off the shelves? We'll take you inside a gripping congressional hearing where FDA Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods, James Jones, found himself in the hot seat, interrogated by Congresswoman Kathy McMorris-Rogers. Unravel the complexities of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and understand the real-world implications of the Blumenauer Amendment, which ties the FDA's hands when it comes to medical marijuana dispensaries that also sell recreational products.Follow the work of SAM and FDPS below:https://learnaboutsam.org/https://gooddrugpolicy.org/https://thedrugreport.org/
2024-09-1614 minThe Drug ReportExclusive Harm Reduction Approaches to Drug Policy Aren't WorkingCan a balanced approach to harm reduction and recovery really save lives? Join us in a thought-provoking conversation with Tom Wolf, a member of the Recovery community from San Francisco, offering a raw and unfiltered critique of today's drug policies. We scrutinize Vancouver's harm reduction model and its alarming overdose death rates, while Tom passionately argues for recovery-focused solutions in the face of new proposals advocating "safe" drug-use spaces and other radical drug provisions. This episode sheds light on the crucial need to integrate more sensible harm reduction interventions with prevention, treatment, and recovery initiatives for a more humane...
2024-09-0224 minThe Drug ReportThe True Cost of Marijuana in the Workplace: Absenteeism and Medical Program Concerns in PennsylvaniaCan marijuana use really be costing businesses millions? In this episode of the Drug Report Podcast, we unpack a revealing study from the American Journal of Preventative Medicine that draws a stark connection between cannabis use disorder and rising workplace absenteeism. From the financial strain on employers to the ripple effects on the economy, we analyze the true cost of marijuana in the workplace. We also bring to light alarming data from Quest Diagnostics, showing a surge in marijuana positivity rates, particularly following workplace accidents. Join us as we discuss the crucial need for robust drug prevention and treatment...
2024-08-2611 minThe Drug ReportThe Fallout of FDA's Decision on LykosThis episode of the Drug Report podcast unpacks the FDA's recent decision to reject Lykos' psilocybin product intended for treating PTSD, a move that has sparked fierce debate. We also delve into the significant fallout for Lykos, from massive layoffs and leadership upheavals to the company's uncertain future. Plus, the tragic case of Matthew Perry is intertwined with broader concerns about the safety and efficacy of psychedelic treatments.Follow the work of SAM and FDPS below:https://learnaboutsam.org/https://gooddrugpolicy.org/https://thedrugreport.org/On X: https://twitter.com...
2024-08-1917 minThe Drug ReportChallenging Marijuana Myths: Imprisonment Realities and Health RisksCan marijuana legalization really dismantle our overcrowded prisons? Find out in today's episode as we unravel the myths and misconceptions about marijuana possession and imprisonment. We begin by examining the widely held belief that legalizing marijuana will significantly reduce prison populations. Using President Biden's historic federal pardons as a case study, we expose the reality: no one was serving federal prison time for simple marijuana possession and the impact of these pardons was far less extensive than most believe.In the second half, our focus shifts to the real data behind marijuana-related imprisonment in states like Michigan...
2024-08-1211 minThe Drug ReportNavigating Poor Ethics in Drug Research and PolicyWhat if the very strategies intended to reduce harm from drug use are actually endangering the very people they aim to protect? This episode of the Drug Report promises to tackle the complexities and controversies surrounding research into harm reduction in drug policy. With significant federal funding now backing harm reduction research, we stress the critical importance of reputable science in shaping effective policies. Hear our nuanced critique on the growing influence of drug normalization in policy-making, through revealing case studies like the Greater Harlem Coalition's experience with pro-drug Yale researchers.But that’s not all. We di...
2024-08-0522 minThe Drug ReportFallout Growing After Philip Morris' Announced Factory in ColoradoJoin us as we take you through the gripping details of Philip Morris' latest move to build a "Zyn" nicotine pouch factory in Aurora, Colorado—their first U.S. factory in half a century. This episode kicks off with a bold discussion on my recent op-ed critiquing the economic incentives granted by the Aurora City Council and the uncritical media coverage of this development. We expose the alarming health risks tied to these products, especially as they skyrocket in popularity among young people.We'll also explore the dark history of Philip Morris, delving into their targeted marketing th...
2024-07-2914 minThe Drug ReportRising Marijuana Use During Pregnancy: Health RisksWe've uncovered a troubling trend: marijuana use is on the rise among pregnant mothers, posing severe health risks to both them and their babies. With evidence from a recent study by Kaiser, we discuss the alarming increase in gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, lower birth weights, preterm birth, and higher neonatal intensive care admissions linked to marijuana use during pregnancy. Even more concerning, many dispensaries are recommending marijuana to pregnant women—a dangerous echo of past marketing tactics by the alcohol industry. We urgently call for stringent regulations and public health warnings to protect vulnerable mothers and their unborn children from these si...
2024-07-2212 minThe Drug ReportBalancing Individual Rights and Public Health in Drug Policy w/Charles Lehman, Manhattan InstituteCan the profit motive in free markets lead to disastrous outcomes when it comes to addictive substances like marijuana? We explore this vital question with Charles Lehman from the Manhattan Institute, who brings a compelling analysis of the economic and societal impacts of marijuana legalization. Charles discusses the tension between individual rights and community well-being, emphasizing how addiction can significantly distort rational self-interest. We also shine a light on the often-overlooked societal costs, such as increased emergency services and workplace accidents, that accompany marijuana legalization. In our conversation, we unravel the complexities of addiction and the predictable f...
2024-07-1523 minThe Drug ReportBehind the Federal Battles Against Marijuana LegalizationUnlock the secrets behind the federal drug policies that shape our nation’s approach to marijuana regulation. Join us as we sit down with Jordan Davidson, head of government affairs at Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM), to discuss their strategic initiatives against the federal rescheduling of marijuana. Learn how SAM has effectively rallied influential lawmakers like Senator Mitt Romney to lead the charge on congressional letters and appropriations amendments, ensuring that rescheduling efforts are grounded in rigorous scientific analysis. Discover the pivotal role of report language in guiding agency actions and the impact of coordinated opposition from 18 state attorneys ge...
2024-07-1018 minThe Drug ReportNational Youth Marijuana Use Trends & Gov. Wes Moore's PardonsExcerpt from Luke's interview on WMAL DMV Talkshow: Could the commercialization of marijuana be putting our youth at risk? Join us in our latest episode as we sit down with Luke Niferatos, the Executive Vice President of Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM), to unpack the alarming rise in daily marijuana use among teenagers and young adults. Luke sheds light on the health risks linked to high-potency marijuana, such as psychosis, depression, and academic decline, and how these concerns have been overlooked by states hurrying to legalize recreational cannabis. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone concerned about the well-being...
2024-07-0816 minThe Drug ReportUncovering Contaminated Marijuana: Health Risks, Regulatory Failures, and Environmental Harm in Legal Marijuana MarketsIs the safety of legal marijuana a myth? Join me, Luke Nioratos, on this week's TDR Podcast as we expose shocking truths revealed by the LA Times in their eye-opening series, "California's Problem with Contaminated Weed." Legal cannabis was supposed to offer a safer alternative, but our exploration uncovers a disturbing reality—pesticide-tainted products that have been knowingly left on the shelves by California regulators. Discover how these dangerous cultivation practices not only pose significant health risks to consumers but also have severe environmental impacts, threatening wildlife and ecosystems.We'll broaden our investigation to other states like Or...
2024-07-0108 minThe Drug ReportDrug Policy News Update: Vermont Injection Site Controversy, Youth Marijuana Use Myths, and MoreJoin us as we dissect Vermont's legislative decision to establish an injection site in Burlington, despite Governor Phil Scott's veto. We'll scrutinize the mixed results from British Columbia and other regions to question the efficacy and safety of these facilities. Then, let's debunk the myths around youth marijuana use trends from the Colorado Healthy Kids Survey. We'll expose how changes in data collection methods have created misleading results, urging us to reconsider if our resources could be better spent on prevention, treatment, and recovery initiatives.This episode also dives into the ongoing efforts surrounding marijuana rescheduling, emphasizing...
2024-06-2409 minThe Drug ReportUnderstanding Drug Scheduling: Marijuana Rescheduling, Safety Concerns, and Public PerceptionJoin us for this audio version of last week's zoom webinar on rescheduling, a deep dive into the intricate world of drug scheduling and addiction with our esteemed guests: Kevin Sabet, President and CEO of SAM, CADCA policy consultant Sue Thau, and Dr. Russ Kamer. We kick things off by breaking down the history and impact of the 1970 Controlled Substances Act, using relatable analogies to dispel common misconceptions about drug classification. This sets the stage for a compelling discussion on public perception, medical use, and the complexities of drug policy reform.Get ready for an eye-opening analysis of...
2024-06-1741 minThe Drug ReportCapitol Hill Update: Delta-8-THC Ban, Farm Bill, SAFE Banking, and More with Jordan DavidsonJoin us for an eye-opening discussion with Jordan Davidson as he unpacks the latest legislative movements on Capitol Hill. From the inclusion of a Delta-8-THC ban in critical bills to the intricate lobbying efforts that shape these laws, Jordan brings firsthand insights that you won't want to miss. This episode is packed with updates on the Farm Bill, the agriculture appropriations bill, and the powerful forces working behind the scenes.Tune in to understand how public health advocates are making strides in a space traditionally dominated by industry lobbyists. Jordan and I also discuss the potential...
2024-06-1213 min