{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/66182a06c58fa000170aeb7a/66e3874b547e9546dfc84bab?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"Guy Felicella : From Addiction to Advocacy","thumbnail_width":200,"thumbnail_height":200,"thumbnail_url":"https://open-images.acast.com/shows/66182a06c58fa000170aeb7a/1726187298213-f7a3fa4d-4d11-4198-8784-1aec17321af3.jpeg?height=200","description":"<p>In this powerful episode, we sit down with Guy Felicella, a former drug addict and gang member who has transformed his life to become a leading expert on harm reduction and safe supply in Canada.</p><h2>Guy's Harrowing Story</h2><p>Guy shares his incredible journey, from starting drug use at age 12 to spending 30 years homeless on Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. He recounts:</p><ul><li>Surviving six overdoses and clinical deaths</li><li>His involvement in gang activities and drug trafficking</li><li>The childhood trauma that led him to seek acceptance through drugs and crime</li></ul><h2>Understanding Addiction and Recovery</h2><p>Guy provides profound insights into:</p><ul><li>Why drugs \"work\" for addicts coping with trauma and shame</li><li>The life-changing impact of human kindness in recovery</li><li>How harm reduction and safe supply save lives</li></ul><h2>Challenging Stigma and Politicization</h2><p>We discuss the controversial aspects of drug policy, including:</p><ul><li>The hypocrisy of politicians who demonize illegal drug users while promoting alcohol</li><li>How shame and stigma further isolate those struggling with addiction</li><li>The importance of compassion and evidence-based approaches</li></ul><p>This episode offers a raw, honest look at addiction, recovery, and the complex factors surrounding drug policy. Guy's story is one of resilience, transformation, and hope for those still struggling.</p><p><br></p><p>Share</p><p><br></p><p>Rewrite</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>","author_name":"Crier Media"}