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Podcast, Ep 1: A Path to Stability with Bryant and Dr. Andy
Thursday, April 24, 2025CCC is excited to announce our new podcast, They Are Us: Breaking Through Stigma!
This podcast explores the root causes of homelessness and substance use, featuring personal stories from those in recovery and insights from local and national experts. Inspired by the words of a CCC community health outreach worker with lived experience, the name reflects a simple truth—under different circumstances, any of us could be in their shoes. Hosted by Juliana Lukasik, CCC Public Affairs Director, join us as we challenge misconceptions, instill hope, and discuss proven solutions in housing, health care, and employment to break the stigma. As episodes air, they will be available on our Podcast page!
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Listen to Episode 1
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Episode 1 Summary
In the pilot episode, host Juliana speaks with Bryant, who came to Portland in the hope of beginning his recovery journey and found success through a combination of CCC services. She also sits down with Dr. Andy Mendenhall, CCC’s President and CEO, who is Board Certified in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine, to discuss the organization’s role in supporting individuals like Bryant and navigating uncertainty in the fight against homelessness and substance use.
Bryant’s Journey to Stability
Bryant’s journey to recovery and stability highlights the power of accessible, holistic support. After a period of homelessness, he faced a turning point when he was connected to CCC’s Hooper Detoxification and Stabilization Center. With the right combination of support, including detox services, housing assistance, and employment resources, Bryant was able to regain stability, secure permanent housing, and start working again. His story is a testament to the difference that comprehensive support can make in helping individuals overcome the challenges of homelessness and addiction.
Breaking the Cycle for Long-Term Recovery
Juliana and Bryant also discuss their shared experiences with the foster care system. They explore how youth in foster care are at a higher risk of homelessness due to the lack of stability, resources, and support after aging out of the system. With limited access to housing, education, and job opportunities, this conversation emphasizes the need for early intervention and sustained support to prevent housing instability before it begins. Providing resources, mentorship, and long-term support can help break this cycle and prevent homelessness among foster care alumni.
Dr. Andy Mendenhall’s Expert Insights
Also joining Juliana in this episode is Dr. Andy Mendenhall, who brings his expertise in addiction and family medicine to the conversation. Dr. Andy discusses the systemic factors that contribute to homelessness, including trauma, economic hardship, and mental health struggles, and explains how CCC’s integrated approach to care—combining housing, health care, and employment—is key to breaking the cycle of homelessness and substance use.
One of Dr. Andy’s key insights is the importance of providing not just treatment, but also long-term support. For individuals like Bryant, the road to recovery doesn’t end with detox; it requires stable housing, accessible mental health services, and job opportunities to truly rebuild a life.
Listen to the first episode here and stay tuned for more stories, expert discussions, and solutions that focus on breaking the stigma surrounding homelessness and substance use disorder!
