Grieving Out Loud: A Mother Coping with Loss in the Opioid Epidemic
After losing her 21-year-old daughter, Emily, to fentanyl poisoning, veteran journalist Angela Kennecke made it her life’s mission to break the silence surrounding substance use disorder and the overdose crisis. Grieving Out Loud is a heartfelt and unflinching podcast where Angela shares stories of devastating loss, hard-earned hope, and the journey toward healing. Through powerful interviews with other grieving families, experts, advocates, and people in recovery, this podcast sheds light on the human side of the epidemic — and how we can all be part of the solution. Whether you're coping with grief, supporting a loved one, or working to end the stigma, you’ll find connection, comfort, and inspiration here.
Grieving Out Loud: A Mother Coping with Loss in the Opioid Epidemic
Teen Voices Powered by Purpose
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This week we are revisiting one of our favorite episodes as we prepare to head to Orlando for CADCA's 25th Annual Mid-Year Training Institute, July 12-16, 2026.
CADCA, or Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America, represents thousands of community coalitions across the country working to prevent substance use and save lives. This year's conference theme is Powered by Purpose, and we could not think of a more fitting episode to share as we gear up to be there.
In this episode of Grieving Out Loud, Angela sits down with two young people who embody exactly that spirit. Annabelle Lovell is a high school student who served as the opening speaker at the 2025 CADCA Mid-Year national conference, bringing teen perspectives on substance use prevention to one of the most influential stages in the country. Joining her is Mollie Kruse, a member of the Emily's Hope Youth Prevention Coalition, who has taken her advocacy all the way to Washington D.C., including a meeting with the Senate majority leader.
Together, Annabelle and Mollie share what actually works when it comes to helping teens say no, and more importantly, inspiring their peers and communities to make better decisions.
This episode is a powerful reminder of why prevention work matters and what it looks like when young people lead the way. If you are heading to CADCA Mid-Year in Orlando, we hope to see you there!
Learn more about the 2026 CADCA Mid-Year Training Institute here.
Behind every number is a story of a life cut short, a family shattered, and a community devastated.
They were...
- daughters
- sons
- mothers
- fathers
- friends
- wives
- husbands
- cousins
- boyfriends
- girlfriends.
They were More Than Just A Number.
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For more episodes and information, just go to our website, emilyshope.charity
Wishing you faith, hope and courage!
Podcast producers:
Casey Wonnenberg King & Kayli Fitz
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