Full Potential, Now! Episode 44 – Mark Jachym – Harm Reduction in the Streets Explained | Addiction Recovery Podcast

What does Harm Reduction really look like beyond the headlines?

In this episode of the Full Potential Now! Podcast, Ted Izydor sits down with Mark Jachym, a harm reduction specialist working the streets to decrease overdose deaths. Together they explore the realities of street outreach, overdose prevention, building trust with people who use drugs, and why compassion—not judgment—is often the first step toward recovery.

Whether you’re a therapist, addiction professional, student, family member, person in recovery, or simply interested in today’s public health challenges, this conversation offers practical knowledge, practical strategies, and hope.

Listen to Episode 44

About Mark Jachym

Mark Jachym has dedicated his career to serving individuals experiencing addiction through harm reduction and street outreach. His work focuses on reducing overdose deaths, connecting people to resources, and meeting individuals with compassion and respect while helping them move toward healthier lives.

In this Episode You will Learn:

• What harm reduction really means—and what it doesn’t.
• Common myths surrounding harm reduction.
• How outreach workers develop trust with people living with addiction.
• The importance of naloxone and overdose prevention.
• How fentanyl has changed the addiction landscape.
• Why meeting people where they are increases the likelihood of recovery.
• The role of dignity, hope, and human connection in long-term recovery.
• Practical ideas for clinicians, students, and families.

Clinical Pearls

• Trust often comes before treatment.
• Recovery and harm reduction can work together.
• Respect increases engagement.
• Small conversations save lives.
• Hope is a powerful intervention.

Resources

• Project Porchlight -Housing in Madison, Wisconsin
• Wisconsin Harm Reduction
• Naloxone Information
• SAMHSA – Opioid Overdose Prevention and Reversal
• Support After a Death by Overdose – SADOD

Credits:

Produced and music by Ted Izydor.

Full Potential NOW! Podcast Awards

Selected in the Top 15 Addiction Podcasts on the internet by Feedspot 

Podcast Spotlight Interview on Discover Pods  

Continued Learning

If you enjoyed this episode, explore additional podcasts, articles and behavioral health resources at Full Potential Now.