Addiction Talk Episode 63: Peter Canning

Peter Canning, author of “Killing Season: A Paramedic’s Dispatches from the Front Lines of the Opioid Epidemic,” has been a paramedic for more than 30 years, and for the past decade he’s been on the front lines of the opioid crisis. He has answered more than a thousand overdose calls, witnessed the devastation families endure, and listened to the stories of people whose lives have been forever altered by the disease of addiction. These experiences haven’t just shaped his work, they’ve changed him as a person.

In this episode, Peter shares what he’s learned and discusses his new book—a guide to the overdose crisis for families and friends. We’ll discuss:

• The stories that shifted his perspective. Each overdose call isn’t just a medical emergency, it’s a human story. Peter talks about the people and families who changed how he sees addiction, reminding us that behind every statistic is someone who matters.

• Why compassion, not shame, saves lives. Addiction is often met with judgment, but Peter argues that love and understanding are essential tools in addressing the crisis.

• Addiction doesn’t discriminate. Addiction and overdose can touch anyone, regardless of background, and everyone needs to be prepared to save the life of someone they love.

This conversation is both sobering and hopeful and offers an insider’s look at the opioid addiction epidemic and what it really takes to fight back. This is the episode no parent or family member should miss.

Episode premiers Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at 12 pm ET.