In this episode of Lena’s Lens, host Lena Jackson‑Eckert sits down with Dr. Troy Melendez, Clinical Manager for Journey to Recovery, and Dr. Nate Velez, Chief Behavioral Health Officer at HHS, to take a closer look at the Community’s approach to substance use treatment, recovery, and long‑term healing. Together, they discuss the “culture of stickiness” at Journey to Recovery, the importance of relationships and hope in the healing process, and how the program’s continuum of care supports individuals for up to a year or more.

Lena, Dr. Melendez, and Dr. Velez also explore trends they are currently seeing in the Community, the growing strength of the local recovery network, the role families play in treatment, and the stigma that programs like JTR are working to break. The conversation highlights the challenges, innovations, and inspiring stories that make recovery possible — and the work that still lies ahead.

Questions? Comments? Send an email to Podcasts@srpmic-nsn.gov

Community Manager Bryan Meyers joins host Lena Jackson‑Eckert to discuss key development projects shaping the Salt River Pima‑Maricopa Indian Community. Bryan shares updates on the Salt River Auto Show, recent changes at the Pavilions, and the planning process that ensures new development aligns with Community standards and long‑term goals. He also announces a major new addition coming to the SRPMIC corridor and explains its expected economic impact for future generations.

Topics Covered
• Salt River Auto Show expansion
• Long‑term economic planning for SRPMIC
• Announcement of a major new project coming to the Community

Questions? Comments? Send an email to Podcasts@srpmic-nsn.gov

Dr. Felix Muniz, Assistant Scientist at the Johns Hopkins Center for Indigenous Health, visits with Ms. Lena to discuss the 5 in 5 Initiative and research that is being conducted in the SRPMIC. As an enrolled member of the Salt River Indian Community, Dr. Muniz is proud to be part of the effort and the long term impacts it will have on the health and wellbeing of its members. Learn more! SURVEY: https://jh.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_74KJ5DuaUcwSfz0?Q_CHL=qr