Explore every episode of the podcast Shasta Rising

In June, we celebrated the 80th anniversary of the Shasta Dam and I had the privilege to share a few words about one of the most majestic places in Shasta County.

I believe there are 3 lessons we can take from the successful completion of the Dam. I hope these will inspire you and all of us to take on the big challenges that lie before us and seize the opportunities ahead.

Last October, I sat down with Paul Abbott, one of the most committed and compassionate individuals focused on ending homelessness in our community.

Paul knows many of the several hundred people living on the streets in our county by name through his work with the Good News Rescue Mission and now, Shasta Thrive. In this episode, he shares what he has learned from spending countless hours in encampments around town and helping individuals get out of homelessness for good.

Last December, as the last Board was hearing presentations on how to spend Shasta County's Opioid Settlement Funds, I sat down with Dr. Mercedes Patee to understand what really happens when people take opioids.

Dr. Mercedes Patee describes how opioids change brain chemistry, making it very difficult for those who become addicted to opioids, including fentanyl, to stop using the drugs. Dr. Patee also explains why medical detox is often necessary to help people stop using, and medically assisted treatment dramatically increases the success rate.This is part of my ongoing investigation into the opioid crisis in Shasta County, intended to inform how the County distributes $39M in Opioid Settlement Funds.

I, Shasta County District 4 Supervisor Matt Plummer, introduce Shasta Rising—a podcast that explores what it will take to make Shasta County the safest, happiest, and healthiest county in California. Join me as I address homelessness, public safety, mental health, and more with data, creative ideas, and community collaboration.