Exposing Alaska’s Fentanyl Emergency: The E.A.R. Project Podcast Takes a Stand
Contributed by Jennifer Christiansen
In the heart of Alaska, a quiet but deadly crisis is taking lives at an alarming rate: the fentanyl epidemic. Every day, families are shattered, futures are lost, and communities are left searching for answers. In response to this growing emergency, The E.A.R. Project Podcast was born—a grassroots initiative dedicated to Education, Advocacy, and Recovery in the fight against fentanyl.
The mission of The E.A.R. Project is simple yet powerful: to save lives by raising awareness, breaking the stigma of addiction, and providing real tools for prevention and recovery. Founded by Karl Yost and Frank Alvarez, The E.A.R. Project is not just a podcast—it’s a movement aimed at equipping individuals, families, and communities with the knowledge and hope they need to combat this devastating crisis.
We believe that education is the first line of defense. Our episodes dive deep into the realities of fentanyl: what it is, how it affects the brain and body, and why it has become the deadliest drug epidemic in modern history. We bring together addiction specialists, healthcare professionals, law enforcement, and individuals with lived experience to have open, honest conversations. By shining a light on the facts and stories that too often remain in the shadows, we empower listeners to recognize the dangers and make informed choices.
But we don’t stop at education—we advocate for real change. The E.A.R. Project collaborates with schools, policymakers, treatment providers, and community leaders to push for more accessible treatment options, early intervention programs, and policies that support recovery instead of punishment. We believe that every person deserves the chance to reclaim their life from the grip of addiction.
Perhaps most importantly, we are dedicated to recovery. Through heartfelt interviews and practical resources, we offer hope to those struggling with substance use and their loved ones. Recovery is not only possible—it is happening every day, and we are here to remind people that they are not alone in their journey.
Our home state of Alaska has been deeply impacted by the fentanyl crisis, with overdose deaths rising year after year. We have seen firsthand how this crisis touches every corner of our communities, regardless of age, background, or circumstance. The E.A.R. Project stands as a voice for the voiceless, a lifeline for those in despair, and a rallying point for those who believe that together, we can turn the tide.
We invite you to listen, share, and join us. The fight against fentanyl is not someone else’s battle—it is ours, as neighbors, parents, friends, and citizens. With education, advocacy, and recovery at the heart of what we do, The E.A.R. Project Podcast is proud to stand on the front lines of hope.