THE DALLES — An Oregon-based nonprofit has launched its own podcast exploring the intersections of behavioral health and criminal justice.

The Oregon Center on Behavioral Health and Justice Integration, a specialized division within Greater Oregon Behavioral Health Inc., announced it is producing the weekly podcast, The Center Collaborative: Creative Solutions in Behavioral Health and Criminal Justice.

The series features guests representing leadership and other prominent voices from government, the judicial system, public safety, healthcare, and the broader community throughout metropolitan and rural parts of the state.

Chris Thomas, podcast host and Behavioral Health Justice manager at the center, said in a press release one serious issue led to the creation of the podcast.

“Nobody was talking about what was working,” according to Thomas. “We want this podcast to shine a light on partnerships that are moving the dial, leading to better solutions and outcomes for people who may become involved with the justice system due to experiencing behavioral health, intellectual/developmental disabilities, or neurocognitive concerns.”

The podcast is available on streaming platforms and major distribution channels online. Listeners can subscribe at ocbhji.org/podcast to make sure they receive updates and alerts when new episodes post.

The podcast’s first full episode debuted March 3. Episode links also are available on OCBHJI’s social media accounts.

Thomas said he hopes the series will not only raise community awareness about partnerships in criminal justice and behavioral health but also help connect existing agencies with useful resources and contacts.

“These are the kind of conversations that bring us together and make a real difference,” Thomas said.

For more information about the Oregon Center on Behavioral Health and Justice Integration, visit www.ocbhji.org or www.facebook.com/ocbhji.