EP 065 - Advocating For Drug Control Approaches That Prioritize Life & Well-being with Christina Dent - Founder & President of End It For Good

Welcome back to Coffee and Conversation with Recovery Advocate Network.  I am your host, Ange, and I welcome you to Episode number 65.

In this episode, we have a special guest, Christina Dent, who is the Founder & President of End It For Good, a non-profit organization based in Mississippi that advocates for drug control approaches that prioritize life and well-being. Christina used to support a criminal justice approach to drugs until she became a foster parent and experienced a radical change in perspective about how to reduce drug-related harm. In her new book, "Curious," we explore her journey of shifting perspectives on addiction and advocating for a health-centered approach.

During our conversation, Christina shares her experience as a foster parent and how it challenged her preconceived notions about addiction. We emphasize the importance of addressing the underlying causes of addiction and reducing the stigma associated with it. We also highlight the long-term impact of addiction on individuals, families, and communities, as well as the need for trauma-informed approaches.

Christina calls for a shift in policies and a focus on harm and trauma reduction in addressing addiction. We also discuss the importance of speaking up and the challenges of doing so. We explore the failures of drug prohibition and the need for alternative approaches. We discuss the impact of drug enforcement and the rise of dangerous substances like fentanyl. Finally, we highlight the need to educate and equip children to make informed choices.

Guest Links:

Purchase "Curious" by Christina: https://a.co/d/e3OykSV

Website: https://enditforgood.com/

Facebook: @enditforgoodms and @christinabdent

LinkedIn: ChristinaBDent

Twitter/X: @enditforgoodms and @christinabdent

Instagram: @enditforgoodms and @christinabdent

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About the Host:

Angela Gill Nelms is a co-founder and CEO of Recovery Advocate Network, a non-profit that focuses on mental wellness. Her primary objectives include educating individuals on what wellness truly means, eliminating the stigma surrounding mental health, and helping those who require treatment to find the financial resources to live their best lives.

#BeBraveBeBadass. www.AngelaGillNelms.com