A Conversation with Carina Raya – Part 1

In part one of this four-part interview, host Michelle Lennon, CEO of Archways, engages in a powerful conversation with Carina Raya, a remarkable student at George Washington University heading to med school with a strong focus on public health. This first discussion centers around the critical importance of sharing personal stories to advocate for recovery support services, especially in the face of funding cuts and the ongoing challenges within the peer recovery and public health fields. Carina shares her own compelling journey and insights into how lived experience can drive meaningful change.

Key Takeaways:

00:00 - Introduction

00:28 - The Urgency of Advocacy Amidst Funding Cuts

04:21 - From Chaos to Credentials

06:35 - The Lifeline of Public Safety Nets

07:54 - Vocational Rehabilitation - A Catalyst for Change

10:14 - Navigating the Complexities of Story Sharing

12:47 - Recovery as a Multifaceted Journey, Not a Single Cure

16:34 - Evolving Perspectives and the Power of Long-Range Vision

19:01 - Lived Experience as a Tool for Systemic Change

21:20 - The Pervasiveness of Stigma in Healthcare

24:00 - Solution-Focused Advocacy in the Face of Crisis

This episode powerfully illustrates the vital role of personal narratives in shaping policy and improving services for individuals in recovery. Carina’s story serves as an inspiring example of resilience and the potential for individuals with lived experience to become powerful advocates for change. The conversation underscores the importance of addressing stigma, promoting holistic approaches to recovery, and ensuring that the voices of those impacted by substance use are heard in the ongoing effort to build a more supportive and effective system.

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