Spero Health Clinical Insights

Spero Health
  • 5.0 (14)
  • ARTS

In the United States over 20 million Americans ages 12 and older have substance use disorder, and since the year 2000 over 700,000 Americans have died from drug overdose. In this Spero Health Clinical Insights series, we take a deeper dive in some of the most common and complex clinical issues facing providers on the front lines working to fight the drug epidemic. To learn more about clinically effective ways of assisting this patient population tune in now.

  1. JAN 26

    Rethinking SUD Medications - Trends in Substance Use Disorder with Dr. Mark Gold

    In this compelling episode of the Spero Health Clinical Insights Podcast, host David Hayden welcomes back Dr. Mark Gold, a globally recognized expert in addiction medicine, neuroscience, and behavioral health. Known as the “Father of Addiction Medicine,” Dr. Gold is a Distinguished Life Fellow of both the American Psychiatric Association and the American College of Clinical Pharmacology, with over 900 published articles, decades of research, and a deep commitment to advancing treatment and access. Together, they unpack the evolving role of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) in recovery and challenge outdated ideas around abstinence and what “real” recovery looks like. From partial agonists to long-term medication use, Dr. Gold explains how these tools improve retention, reduce overdose risk, and offer stability—especially in today’s fentanyl-driven landscape. This episode explores: The shift from abstinence-only thinking to long-term treatment planningHow to support patient goals while using medications as a bridge toward recoveryThe need for early identification and pre-addiction interventionWhy stigma, shame, and waiting for someone to “hit bottom” are doing more harm than goodThe rising trends in stimulant use and challenges in treating co-use with fentanylHow behavioral supports like contingency management workDr. Gold also draws parallels to chronic disease management, reminding us that addiction should be treated like any other chronic condition—with compassion, tools, structure, and long-term support. He advocates for increased education, physician training, and more research into how early drug exposure affects long-term recovery. 🎧 Listen now to hear Dr. Gold’s insights on where the field is headed—and how we can better serve those on the path to recovery. 🔗 Learn more about his work at www.drmarkgold.com 🎙️ Don’t forget to also check out his own podcast, The Gold Standard Podcast wherever you stream podcasts.

    41 min

  2. 12/02/2025

    Meditation in Life and Recovery

    Welcome to Episode 27 of the Spero Health Clinical Insights Podcast! In this episode, co-hosts David Hayden and Dave Hoerman come together for a calming, practical conversation on a powerful but often misunderstood tool in recovery: Meditation. With years of experience practicing and teaching meditation and mindfulness, David and Dave walk us through how to simplify meditation, both for ourselves and the patients we serve. This episode breaks through the misconception that meditation has to be complicated or “done perfectly,” and instead introduces it as a flexible, approachable practice anyone can begin. They explore what meditation truly is—a judgment-free space to build awareness, reduce distraction, and be present. You’ll hear how just a few minutes of mindful focus each day can help with emotional regulation, anxiety, self-awareness, and even managing cravings or triggers. This is a perfect introduction for anyone curious about meditation, especially those in recovery or supporting others through it. Whether it’s focusing on the breath, observing thoughts without judgment, or simply learning to be still—meditation is a practice, not a performance—and it might just be the next step in your recovery journey.

    29 min

  3. 10/21/2025

    Meeting Patients Where They Are

    Welcome to Episode 26 of the Spero Health Clinical Insights Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, we’re joined by co-hosts David Hayden, LCADC and VP of Clinical Services at Spero Health, and Dave Hoerman, Dean of Spero University. Together, they unpack a phrase commonly heard in the field of addiction treatment: “Meeting the patient where they are.” While this expression is widely used, it’s often misunderstood or oversimplified—leading to missed opportunities for deeper connection and growth. David and Dave challenge us to go beyond surface-level behaviors and consider what might be driving them. As they point out, what may appear as resistance or lack of motivation is often rooted in deeper, unspoken struggles. True engagement requires clinicians to look beneath the surface and understand the full context of a patient's experience. This episode explores the importance of compassionate, ongoing assessment—not just at intake, but throughout the treatment process. David shares how clinicians can better support patients by revisiting goals, evaluating readiness, and recognizing when behaviors don’t align with a patient’s values or desired outcomes. The goal isn’t just to do what’s easiest—it’s to do what’s most effective in helping each patient move forward in recovery. You’ll hear practical strategies for fostering deeper therapeutic relationships, identifying barriers to progress, and adjusting your clinical approach based on real-time needs. It’s a meaningful reminder that meeting patients where they are doesn’t mean staying there—it means helping them move toward who they want to become.

    40 min

  4. 06/30/2025

    Holistic Tools for Addiction Recovery

    Welcome to Episode 25 of the Spero Health Clinical Insights Podcast! In this episode, host David Hayden sits down with Dr. Marie Dam, a Board-Certified Internal Medicine physician with over 12 years of experience in addiction medicine. In addition to her traditional medical training, Dr. Dam is extensively trained in functional and holistic wellness, offering a unique perspective that blends evidence-based medicine with natural, metabolic-based approaches to care. Dr. Dam shares her personal journey of shifting from a strictly conventional approach to embracing functional medicine after facing her own health challenges. Her philosophy centers on wellness over disease, which has proven especially impactful in treating individuals in recovery. Together, David and Dr. Dam explore key pillars of wellness—nutrition, sleep, and lifestyle—and how each can play a transformative role in supporting recovery. From the importance of fueling the body with real, whole foods to understanding the long-term effects of processed foods, Dr. Dam offers practical insights on how even small changes can lead to better physical and mental health. They also dive into the vital role of quality sleep—how it supports hormone regulation, reduces inflammation, and allows the body to truly heal. Dr. Dam shares useful strategies and guiding questions providers can use to help patients begin making positive lifestyle shifts.

    44 min

  5. 06/11/2025

    Spirituality in the Recovery Journey

    Welcome to Episode 24 of the Spero Health Clinical Insights Podcast! In this special episode, we flip the script—Dave Hoerman takes over as host while David Hayden, LCADC and Senior Vice President of Clinical Services at Spero Health, steps into the guest seat. With over 25 years in behavioral health and more than a decade at Spero Health, David brings a powerful perspective shaped by his early work as a counselor and his continued focus on breaking down barriers to increase access to quality care.  This conversation explores the often misunderstood role of spirituality in recovery—what it is, what it isn’t, and why it matters. David shares how spirituality differs from religion, emphasizing that spirituality is about discovering internal purpose, restoring hope, and finding connection to something greater than oneself. Together, David and Dave discuss how spirituality helps people regain clarity, build insight, and reestablish a sense of belonging—critical elements for healing in a disease rooted in disconnection. They also explore how spiritual growth can lower anxiety, increase optimism, and help individuals rediscover meaning as they move through recovery. For providers and treatment teams, this episode offers practical ways to support the development of spirituality in treatment—by helping patients recognize their progress, practice gratitude, build confidence, and feel connected to something bigger than their addiction. Whether you're a clinician, a person in recovery, or simply someone seeking a deeper understanding of the human side of healing, this episode offers thoughtful guidance and encouragement on the journey to wholeness.

    25 min

  6. 05/02/2025

    Beyond the Individual: How Addiction Impacts the Entire Family

    Welcome to Episode 23 of the Spero Health Clinical Insights Podcast! In this powerful episode, host David Hayden is joined by Rebecca Campbell, a Clinical Services Specialist at Spero Health. Rebecca is a Licensed Professional Counselor  and brings a wealth of experience to the conversation as they explore how substance use disorders impact the family—and the family’s critical role in recovery. Addiction doesn’t just affect the individual—it alters the entire family system. Rebecca breaks down how family members often take on unintentional roles to cope with a loved one’s substance use, sometimes enabling the very behavior they’re trying to protect against. From children struggling with emotional and behavioral challenges to spouses and parents battling guilt, shame, and grief, the ripple effects of addiction run deep. This episode focuses on the path to reconnection and healing once a patient makes a personal commitment to recovery. Rebecca shares how motivational interviewing can help patients recognize their impact on family relationships, and how group counseling can provide connection and perspective. She also discusses when and how to involve family members in the recovery process, and why timing and readiness are essential. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how to help patients take responsibility, rebuild trust, and truly listen to the perspectives of those they’ve hurt. Recovery is not just about sobriety—it’s about restoring relationships. This episode is a meaningful guide for clinicians, families, and anyone navigating the complex intersection of addiction and family dynamics.

    32 min

  7. 03/31/2025

    Focus on Group Counseling Part 2

    Welcome to Episode 22 of the Spero Health Clinical Insights Podcast! This week, host David Hayden is joined once again by Tonia Goodrich, Spero Health’s Director of Clinical Services. Tonia brings a wealth of clinical experience and a deep commitment to helping patients build meaningful connections through group counseling. You may remember her from Part 1 back in January, where we explored the foundational impact of group counseling and how finding the right fit can be life-changing. In Part 2, we take the conversation even further. This episode dives into why group counseling can be a truly transformative part of recovery—and what it takes to help patients get the most out of the experience. Tonia and David discuss the steps clinicians can take to build trust and rapport, helping patients feel safe, seen, and heard. They explore how to engage those who may be hesitant at first, and how observing before participating can ease the transition into group. We also take a closer look at the variety of group types available, and how tailoring the experience to each individual’s needs can make all the difference. Most importantly, this conversation highlights the power of collective healing—how patients don’t just receive support, but also give it, offering hope and encouragement to others walking the same path. Whether you’re a clinician looking to enhance your approach or someone curious about how group counseling works, this episode is full of practical insights on creating connection, building trust, and fostering lasting change through the group experience.

    17 min

  8. 02/27/2025

    Treatment of Co-Occurring Disorders

    Welcome to Episode 21 of the Spero Health Clinical Insights Podcast! In this episode, host David Hayden sits down with special guest Jamie Riles, an accomplished Nurse Practitioner with Spero Health, holding three board certifications, including one in addiction. Together, they dive into the treatment of co-occurring disorders, exploring the critical intersection between mental health and substance use. Co-occurring psychiatric disorders are highly prevalent among individuals struggling with addiction, yet they often go undiagnosed or undertreated. Jamie shares insights from his clinical experience, providing real-world statistics on how these disorders impact overall health, quality of life, and long-term recovery outcomes. He discusses the role of trauma in addiction, the importance of proper diagnosis using established guidelines, and the challenges clinicians face in treating both substance use and mental health conditions simultaneously. Beyond diagnosis and treatment, this episode highlights the power of connection in recovery. Jamie offers practical strategies for clinicians to engage with patients, asking the right questions to understand not just what substances they’re using, but why. He emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive, judgment-free environment where patients feel safe, accepted, and empowered to participate in their treatment journey. By fostering trust and collaboration, the entire care team plays a crucial role in keeping patients engaged, instilling hope, and ultimately supporting positive outcomes in recovery. Tune in for an in-depth conversation on the complexities of co-occurring disorders, how to address the root causes of substance use, and the vital role of a compassionate, connected treatment approach.

    34 min
See All (28)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

In the United States over 20 million Americans ages 12 and older have substance use disorder, and since the year 2000 over 700,000 Americans have died from drug overdose. In this Spero Health Clinical Insights series, we take a deeper dive in some of the most common and complex clinical issues facing providers on the front lines working to fight the drug epidemic. To learn more about clinically effective ways of assisting this patient population tune in now.

Information

  • Creator
    Spero Health
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Spero Health Clinical Insights
  • Show Website
    Spero Health Clinical Insights