About this episode

Susan Ousterman joins Heather Ross to discuss the flaws in criminalization and tougher penalties in addressing the overdose crisis.

When we say “justice,” do we mean punishment - or safety, dignity, and repair? In this episode, advocate Susan Ousterman joins Heather to rethink what justice looks like in the overdose crisis. Drawing from lived experience and years of policy work, Susan explains how criminalization fuels stigma, why harsher penalties (including drug-induced homicide laws) backfire, and how they even undercut Good Samaritan protections. Together, we trace the real barriers families face including insurance denials, short detox stays, patchwork care, and outline what actually saves lives: non-discriminatory, evidence-based treatment, harm reduction, and policies rooted in compassion rather than fear. If you’ve ever been told that “tougher laws” are the answer, this conversation offers a different perspective. Connect with Susan: https://www.vilomahfoundation.com/ Resources From Heather Ross Coaching If you want answers and support to help you and your child Sign up for a 45-minute $17 Road to Recovery call with Heather using the link below. https://heatherrosscoachingcalendar.as.me/RoadtoRecovery⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The truth about enabling - If you've ever worried about…

People in this episode

Host: Heather Ross

Guest: Susan Ousterman

Topics covered

• justice
• overdose crisis
• criminalization
• harm reduction
• evidence-based treatment
• family support

Keywords

• justice
• overdose crisis
• criminalization
• harm reduction
• evidence-based treatment
• Good Samaritan protections
• insurance denials

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Vilomah Foundation

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