The Rural Communities Opioid Response Program (RCORP) is a multi-year initiative by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) that supports grantees working to address behavioral healthcare issues in their communities. RCORP funding allows grantees to sustain programs and activities that improve access to quality behavioral healthcare services, including substance use disorder (SUD) and opioid use disorder (OUD) services, in rural areas. This podcast focuses on the topics and issues most relevant for RCORP grantees nationwide.
This podcast is supported by JBS International, Inc, through a grant award from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) with 0% financed with non-governmental sources. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government. For more information, please visit HRSA.gov.
Hosts: Tim Rabolt and a variety of guest hosts
Producers: Samantha Garonzik, Tim Rabolt
Editor: Alex Serban, Meg Cotton
Latest Episodes
54: Get to Know Your TEL- Jenna Quigley
Jenna Quigley is a Technical Expert Lead (TEL) at JBS International. She lives in Pennsylvania and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, and American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy Approved Supervisor in both Pennsylvania and Colorado. She received a Master of Art in Clinical Counseling Psychology - Marriage and Family Therapy and a Bachelor of Art in Psychology, both from La Salle University. Tune in as we get to know her more!
53: 2024 Reverse Site Visit (RSV) Recap
Wow! Relive some of the highlights and impact from this past Reverse Site Visit in this week’s packed episode. We’ll take a look back and hear about everything that took place in Washington, D.C. from start to finish.
52: Rural EMS Advances Innovative Solutions for Today's Overdose Crisis
We sit down with Ray Antonacci, EMT-P, CAPO, the Chief Administrator for Lincoln County Ambulance District. Ray shares a story about a recent overdose call, their unique response, and the work they are able to do in their community thanks to their RCORP Overdose Response award. Tune in to this week’s episode to learn more!
51: Mindfulness in the Workplace Part 4: Communication
Jason Harris returns to the show to take us through various aspects of mindfulness in the workplace: the foundation, how to focus, creating balance, and practicing mindful communication. Part 4 wraps up the series with an in-depth discussion on mindful communication: both how we listen and how we communicate with colleagues and others. Jason will cover what it looks like in practice, its benefits, and some ways to practice it in your respective environments.
50: Mindfulness in the Workplace Part 3: Balance
Jason Harris returns to the show to take us through various aspects of mindfulness in the workplace: the foundation, how to focus, creating balance, and practicing mindful communication. Part 3 discusses the concept of mindful balance and how to adequately juggle various tasks and calm the mind. Jason walks through some myths and tips so be sure to tune in!
49: Mindfulness in the Workplace Part 2: Focus
Jason Harris returns to the show to take us through various aspects of mindfulness in the workplace: the foundation, how to focus, creating balance, and practicing mindful communication. Part 2 explores the act of focus and some strategies to improve workplace focus. Jason also leads a short mindfulness practice for listeners. Tune in to learn more!
Bonus Episode: What's Happening Part 3
The most popular episode of the show is back as we welcome in fellow TEL, Jordan Brandt alongside episode regulars Robert Childs and Donald McDonald. We cover latest trends, the RSV, upcoming events, and the substance use landscape as a whole (with some fun in between). Tune in for a dynamic conversation!
48: Mindfulness in the Workplace Part 1: Foundation
Jason Harris returns to the show to take us through various aspects of mindfulness in the workplace: the foundation, how to focus, creating balance, and practicing mindful communication. Part 1 highlights the foundation of the practice to set the stage for the subsequent focus areas. Tune in for a great series that will provide listeners with strategies and key information to apply at both a personal and organizational level.
47: 2024 Innovation Tank Finalists
Back again at this year’s Reverse Site Visit (RSV), the RCORP Innovation Tank will feature 5 grantees presenting on innovative practices and programs that they’ve implemented in their communities. Elevated to a plenary session this year, all attendees will have a chance to hear from them as well as our panel of expert commentators. Audience voting will help determine this year’s winner. Tune in to learn more about each of the 5 presenters.
46: 2024 RSV Preview
In this podcast episode, join us as we bring together Dris Villaman, JBS Technical Assistance Manager, and Samara Vasquez, Senior Meeting Planner, to highlight all the upcoming parts of this year’s Reverse Site Visit (RSV) happening in the heart of Washington, D.C. Get ready for an informative discussion covering various topics such as networking, exploring the best coffee shops and restaurants nearby, and talking about the various plenaries and can’t miss sessions.
45: Impact of Climate Change on Indigenous Communities Part 2
This episode’s guest host is Shirley Cain, a Technical Expert Lead at JBS International. Shirley previously served as a guest on the show to discuss Impact of Climate Change on Indigenous Communities. In this episode, she sits down with a colleague of hers to discuss his wellness journey and the role that substance use disorder and wellness can play within Indigenous Communities.
44: Get to Know Your TEL- Jordan Brandt
In this episode, Tim Rabolt sits down with Technical Expert Lead, Jordan Brandt. Tune in to discover fascinating tidbits about Jordan's past residences, her journey to JBS, and many more exciting things!
43: Recovery Housing with Dr. Fletcher
Fighter pilot, board-certified physician, statesman, and healthcare visionary, Ernie Fletcher was elected in 1998 to the first of three consecutive terms in the United States House of Representatives. In 2003 he was elected the 60th Governor of Kentucky. As Founder of the Fletcher Group, Ernie continues a legacy of innovative public service that promises to extend the company's unique model of "Recovery Ecosystems" to states across the country". Join in for a lively discussion around recovery housing, the SUD landscape, and the model of recovery ecosystems.
42: Dr. C Series- Getting off the Starting Blocks
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. C to discuss how providers can implement best practices for using buprenorphine and how you can build buy in within your practice and community overall.
41: Dr. C Series- Starting Buprenorphine for People Using Fentanyl
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. C where she expands on buprenorphine use and implementation. Dr. C talks about how buprenorphine works and how it competes with fentanyl in the body as well as the best practices for providers.
40: Dr. C Series- Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT)
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. C where she provides an overview of Screening, Brief, Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT). Dr. C offers recommendations, elaborates on its importance, and covers various best practices and guidelines.
39: A Conversation on Peer Workers with Gardens of Hope
Robert Childs returns as a guest host to talk peer recovery, recovery strategies, and even recovery fishing excursions with Jimbo Partin and Craig George from Gardens of Hope, a recovery community organization (RCO) located in Toombs County, Georgia.
38: Season Two Kickoff with JBS President, Jennifer Kasten
We welcome in 2024 and Season Two of Rural Roads with a sit-down conversation with JBS President and RCORP-TA's first project director, Jennifer Kasten. This episode highlights her experience in the early days of RCORP and picks up right where we left off with Season One's finale looking at the evolution of RCORP over the years.
37: Season One Finale: The Evolution of RCORP
Over 5 years and counting, the evolution of RCORP has been remarkable. In our finale episode for Season One, we hear from John Roberts and Elisha Figueroa (RCORP-TA Project Directors), the Michigan Center for Rural Health (7-time RCORP grantee), and a variety of stories and statistics to put it all in perspective. Season Two will launch in early January.
36: RCORP "Be There" Anti-Stigma Media Toolkit Walkthrough
In this episode, our host, Tim Rabolt, walks us through the RCORP "Be There" Anti-Stigma Media Toolkit. Investing your time with this toolkit could help reduce the stigma surrounding substance and opioid use disorder.
Episode Resources:
- Follow Along with this video: https://youtu.be/zBaa8FNw6Yg
35: Family Perspectives with Robert Childs and Diannee Carden
Our “Parent Perspective” episodes get to know family members who have lost a loved one to an overdose. The episodes will feature their stories, experience, and other vulnerable insight that they’ve graciously shared with the RCORP community. This episode features Diannee Carden who is the founder of eKimM for Change.
34: Family Perspectives with Robert Childs and Tanya Smith
Our “Parent Perspective” episodes get to know family members who have lost a loved one to an overdose. The episodes will feature their stories, experience, and other vulnerable insight that they’ve graciously shared with the RCORP community. This episode features Tanya Smith, Director for the Office of Victim Services at Kennesaw State University.
33: New DEA Training Requirements and Information with Dr. C
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. C where she discusses the new DEA training requirements. The discussion covers the key aspects, including who needs to do the training, why it is important, where you can get it done, and renewal requirements. Dr. C also offers recommendations on how to get the most from the training.
Episode Resources:
- DEA announces important change to registration requirement (usdoj.gov)
- High Quality Free Training- SUD 101 Core Curriculum (2023) - PCSS (pcssnow.org)
- Contact Information for your State's Medical Board- FSMB | Contact a State Medical Board
32: Integrating and Colloborating with Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
Brent Waninger carries a wide range of professional experience (and an even longer job title). In episode Brent offers strategies and success stories for grantees to work with law enforcement and emergency medical services. “Meet them where they’re at” has many applications, and Brent gives some key insight into ways grantees can effectively approach and collaborate within their own service areas.
31: Horizon Health and Rural Transportation
Rural transportation challenges are a common obstacle for RCORP grantees. Navigating the logistics, development, and implementation can be a tall task amongst other competing priorities. Tune in to hear directly from Kyle Perkins and Tim Petro about a unique and innovative solution in their community.
30: Impact of Climate Change on Indigenous Communities
JBS Technical Expert Lead, Shirley Cain, joins fellow JBS colleague and this week’s guest host, Jason Harris, to discuss the various impacts and effects that climate change has held on Indigenous peoples. Tune in to learn first-hand about this under-discussed topic with widespread and lasting effects nationwide
Where to Listen
Episode Archive
01: What's Trending- Donald McDonald and Robert Childs
Summary: Technical expert leads Donald McDonald and Robert Childs join the episode to discuss their experience in harm reduction, treatment, and recovery, as well as the need for social justice in the recovery movement and the need for credentialing of the "magic" of the recovery experience. They discuss how grantees have had to think outside the box to find new ways to engage young people, how grantees were initially unfamiliar with the concept of recovery, and how treatment and recovery are not the same. Lastly, they discuss the need for recovery support services, harm reduction outreach, and primary prevention to come together to reduce overdose and get people quality care.
This audio discusses the need for strong consortia and sustainability in order to ensure success with projects across the country. It also highlights innovative services and programs that have the potential to lead to positive outcomes such as harm reduction vending machines and buprenorphine initiation in carceral settings. Additionally, it suggests that meaningful involvement of people who have been impacted by the issue is key to ensure that the work meets their needs. The speakers also discussed providing access to quality medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for people across the country, offering people the medication of their choice, and providing access to quality treatment for people dependent on stimulants.
02: Disparities Impact Statement with Kim Nesbitt
Episode 2 welcomes in Kim Nesbitt, a Public Health Analyst for the Federal Office of Rural Health Policy (FORHP) at the Health Resources Service Administration (HRSA). In this role, she oversees the Rural Communities Opioid Response Program (RCORP) Psychostimulant Support grant program as the program coordinator/project officer. We discuss her work experience and take a deeper look into the Behavioral Health Disparities Impact Statements (DIS).
Episode Resources:
- Guidance and Template Document
- JBS/HRSA Webinar on DIS
- Webinar on Addressing Minority Health in Rural Communities
03: Guest of Honor- Isha Taylor-Kamara
In this episode we get to know Isha-Taylor Kamara, a Technical Assistance Manager (TAM) at JBS International. We discuss her work prior to JBS, her role within RCORP, and wrap up with the hard-hitting questions like: Does the POps team have popcorn at their meetings? Where is her next trip abroad? And since she does not drink coffee (spoiler alert), what does she order at Starbucks?
04: Naloxone Vending Machines with Lisa Martin
"If saving a life could be free and as easy as getting a bag of chips, would you do it?" This winning photo caption from Lisa Martin at Missouri Highlands captures the efficiency and efficacy of naloxone vending machine access. Our episode will talk with Lisa about their machines in Missouri and explore key factors like set up, marketing, cost, pushback, and their plans moving forward.
05: Recovery Allyship with Susie Mullens
Episode 5 welcomes in Susie Mullens from the West Virginia Collegiate Recovery Network to discuss all things related to recovery allyship. What does it mean to be a recovery ally? What are some quick steps to take to support those in recovery? Where can you learn more about recovery allyship? Susie answers these and many more questions in this week's episode.
06: Breaking Down the Myths and Facts about Medication for Opioid Use Disorder with Dr. Campopoiano
Welcome to Episode 6, Part 1 of our April Podcast Series with Dr. Melinda Campopoiano, Senior Medical Advisor for JBS International, commonly known as Dr. C. In this episode, we break the stigma around methadone and buprenorphine for OUD. Dr. C provides strategies and information you can use to address misconceptions in your community, while also providing compelling facts that show that these medications produce more than a 75% reduction in overdose at 3 months and a 59% reduction at 12 months.
Episode Resources:
07: Jail-Based Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) with Dr. C
Welcome to Episode 7, Part 2 of our April Podcast Series with Dr. Melinda Campopoiano, Senior Medical Advisor for JBS International, commonly known as Dr. C. In this episode, we talk about Jail-Based MOUD and why these medications should be available in carceral settings. Dr. C discusses barriers to providing MOUD and exemplifies success stories in these carceral settings.
Episode Resources:
08: Xylazine with Dr. C
Welcome to Episode 8, Part 3 of our April Podcast Series with Dr. Melinda Campopoiano, Senior Medical Advisor for JBS International, commonly known as Dr. C. Xylazine is becoming a predominant threat in the US drug supply, so physicians should be taking action on how to combat it. Dr. C explains why it is in the drug supply and shares her experience with it as a physician.
Episode Resources:
09: Eliminating the X Waiver with Dr. C
Welcome to Episode 9, Part 4 of our April Podcast Series with Dr. Melinda Campopoiano, Senior Medical Advisor for JBS International, commonly known as Dr. C. Dr. C gives us the history as well as why eliminating the DATA waiver was a monumental move to help people receive access to medications for opioid use disorder.
This concludes the four part mini-series with Dr. C.
Episode Resources:
10: Connection Cafe- Recovery and Harm Reduction Services
In honor of International Harm Reduction Day on May 7th, the RCORP team sits down with Alison Greene and Charmin Gabbard for an insightful conversation about the services offered at Connection Café, including recovery support and harm reduction. Tune in to learn how this grantee is making a positive impact in their community and changing the game.
11: Prevention with Logan Reid and Craig PoVey
Tune in to our podcast where we dive deep into the issue of drug use and explore effective strategies for prevention with Logan Reid, Director of Prevention for Southwest BH Center and Regional Prevention Director for State of Utah. Whether you are a concerned parent, educator, healthcare provider, or simply interested in the topic of drug prevention, our podcast provides valuable insights and actionable steps to help you make a positive impact in your community.
12: Mindfullness in the Workplace with Jason Harris
In this thought-provoking podcast episode, we delve into the transformative power of mindfulness in the workplace. Our special guest, Jason Harris, an esteemed expert in the field, shares his profound insights and experiences on fostering a mindful work environment.
13: Ask a Grantee- United Way of the Wabash Valley
Guest Host Robert Childs sits down with Matthew Swift from United Way of the Wabash Valley for an RCORP-TA "Ask a Grantee" live session. This session highlights their data collection strategies, recovery capital scale, evaluation of services, and a variety of other key components to their RCORP work in West Central Indiana.
14: Project Management with Sandi Gollob
Welcome to another exciting episode of Rural Roads - The RCORP Podcast. In today's episode, we will be discussing Project Management and its importance to JBS and RCORP-TA. Our special guest for today is Sandi Gollob, who brings with her a wealth of experience in this field. Sandi serves as a Project Manager for RCORP-TA and also works as a Project Director for the Rural Health Network.
15: The Value of Networking with Karen Atkins
Welcome to our networking episode, where we explore the power of networking and its impact with Karen Atkins. Karen has 23 years of demonstrated experience working in the public/ media relations and currently is the Public information Officer with Kentucky River Foothills Development Council, Inc.
We highlight the diverse perspectives and experiences of individuals who have harnessed the power of networking to advance their careers and make a difference in the field. We discuss the benefits of networking, such as knowledge sharing, mentorship, career opportunities, and access to resources.
16: The Role of Community Health Workers with West Central Alabama Area Health Education Center (AHEC)
In this episode, Sue Gadacz, the Technical Expert Lead for West Central Alabama Area Health Education Center (AHEC,) takes the role of guest host to discuss the importance of community health workers (CHWs) in rural communities. Join us as we explore how West Central Alabama AHEC is fulfilling its' mission to improve health equity by supporting CHWs and community-based initiatives that address social determinants of health. Discover how CHWs play a vital role in bridging healthcare gaps and promoting better health outcomes for rural populations. Tune in to gain insights into the transformative impact of CHWs in rural communities and the innovative solutions they bring to address healthcare challenges.
17: Maternal Mental Health with Amanda Mondlock
In this podcast, we engage in a wonderful conversation with Amanda Mondlock, a birth and postpartum doula. Join us as we dive deep into the realm of maternal mental health and discuss the various aspects that impact the emotional well-being of pregnant and parenting people. Through informative conversations, we will shed light on the challenges, triumphs, and critical knowledge points surrounding this important subject.
18: Ask a Grantee- Oklahoma State University
Oklahoma State University is a Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) grantee, known for its exceptional work in addressing the challenges posed by NAS. Join their thoughtful discussion as they share their experiences and successes with jail-based services and their efforts in securing criminal justice partners. They will also delve into their impactful work with perinatal/postpartum individuals, highlighting their dedication to improving the lives of vulnerable populations. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights into the groundbreaking work being done by Oklahoma State University in the field of NAS and its related areas.
19: RSV Walk Through and Can't Miss Sessions
In this engaging podcast episode, join us as we bring together Dris Villaman, JBS Technical Assistance Manager, and Samara Vasquez, Senior Meeting Planner, to gather information about the Rural Community Health Connections Summit: Rural Communities Opioid Response Program (RCORP) Reverse Site Visit (RSV) happening in the heart of Washington, DC. Get ready for an informative discussion covering various topics such as networking, exploring the best coffee shops and restaurants in DC, the remarkable 5- year anniversary of RCORP, and uncovering the absolute must-attend sessions that you simply can't afford to miss!
20: Importance of Involving Those with Lived Experience with Michael Botticelli
Join us in today's podcast as we talk to Michael Botticelli, the former Director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, who has held various outstanding roles throughout his career. Michael will share his lived experiences and shed light on the importance of involving individuals in public health policy-making and life-changing decisions.
21: Supporting Marginalized Students in Recovery with Dr. Kristine de Jesus
In this week's episode, RCORP-TA engages in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Kristine de Jesus, a visionary leader and the founder of Students Recover. With a deep-rooted passion for supporting students in recovery, Dr. De Jesus has dedicated herself to developing systems of care that embody principles of equity and justice, skillfully utilizing an intersectional lens. Tune in as we gain an understanding of the significance of equitable opportunities for all students, ensuring that no one is left behind.
22: Xylazine and Wound Care with Robert Childs and Jason Bienert
In this episode, Robert Childs, RCORP-TA technical expert lead, engages in a conversation with Jason Bienert, a Wound Care Nurse, to explore the details of Xylazine. During the discussion, Jason shares his valuable experiences both within and outside of hospitals as guidance around all of the emerging details about Xylazine.
23: Ask a Grantee- Mississippi Hospital Association
In this episode, we showcase the May RCORP-TA Ask-a-Grantee, Mississippi Hospital Association (Implementation II). Mississippi Hospital Association (MHA) comprises over 100 hospitals, healthcare systems, and care providers, including behavioral health. In partnership with Care Continuity, developed the only true statewide health information exchange (HIE), giving providers a tool for improving care coordination for behavioral health patients seen in emergency departments.
24: Beyond the Bump with Kari Earle, Jenna Quigley, and Elizabeth Vaughn
Join us in this episode as we discuss perinatal behavioral health with RCORP-TA expert leads: Kari Earle, Jenna Quigley, and Elizabeth Vaughn. In this podcast, we thoroughly explore the challenges, potential solutions, and strategies for providing crucial support to individuals throughout the various perinatal periods.
25: What's Happening with Robert Childs and Donald McDonald - Part 2
Join us for the much-anticipated Part 2 of the "What's Happening" episode series, featuring Robert Childs and Donald McDonald. This episode discusses Overdose Awareness Day, Recovery Month, the RCORP Reverse Site Visit, as well as some intentional off-topic discussions around coffee, marmite, and summer travel.
26: Recovery Out Loud with Shalinda Woolbright
Our Recovery Month episode series kicks off with an in-depth conversation with Shalinda Woolbright, Advanced Peer Specialist of Arkansas Foundation for Medical Care. Shalinda lets us hear her story and shows how someone can overcome their struggles, even when they think there is nothing that could possibly help them.
27: Talking Stigma, Recovery, and Prevention Programs with Mendonoma Health Alliance
Join us for our next Recovery Month episode with Micheline White. Micheline White, Executive Director of the Mendonoma Health Alliance in Gualala, CA, covers the upcoming launch of their mobile health clinic, the power of their #OvercomingAddiction anti-stigma campaign, the peer recovery program they created, and a variety of other innovative services and programs that contribute to the impact they have in their community.
28: Recovery Stories with John Lehr
Tune in to this week's captivating episode as we engage in a candid conversation with the talented actor and comedian, John Lehr. You might recognize him as the iconic Geico caveman or as John from the beloved 90s sitcom "Jesse." We hear about his rise in the entertainment industry to his inspiring path to recovery from substance use.
29: Youth Recovery with Tim Rabolt
Join Tim Rabolt, the Host of the Rural Roads Podcast, as he allows us to take a deeper look into his personal journey of recovery. Tim provides insights into his high school and college experience, shedding light on the factors that influenced his perspective. Tim offers valuable guidance on the strategic approach to engaging with young individuals and emphasizes the need to tailor our efforts towards the younger generation who may start using drugs.