Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nathan Smiddy. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Nathan, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How’s you first get into your field – what was your first job in this field?

I got my first job in this field after volunteering for two and a half years. The non-profit I now work for finally had the budget to compensate me for what I do and they offered me a job. Priot to that I had been working two jobs and volunteering on my days off. Prior, to that I knew I wanted to do this and do it full time but I wasn’t really concerned about financical compensation because I enjoy what I do so much. It’s definitely a blessing to be able to do this full time and be compensated for it. Prior to this offer, I was at a time in my life where I wanted more fulfillment out of life. A purpose so to speak and this oppourtunity has given me just that and more.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I got into this industry as a way to give back as a result of my lived experiences. It was really never the goal to get payed for this. I just wanted to give back and I always said that if it ever became about money I would move on from this endeavor. As of now i provide Narcan, fentanyl test strips and everything you would need to test a substance with a immunoassay test strip. I’ve done events anywhere from underground punk shows to a book release at the Ace Hotel.

I think I am most proud of all the services I’ve provided with no funding other than my income and donations from the community. I’ve recieved countless messages from people saying that my work has inspired them to get more involved in their community and that’s what its about at the end of the day.

Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?

Whether in my field or in another profession, I think in terms of longevity, I have to practice self care and make sure my needs are met. At any given monment I have numerous tasks to be completed and I could work all day and still not get done most days. It’s important to stop and honor what I need. I try to keep it simple and think mind body and spirit. I will be honest and tell you that I am no the best at it but I give it my best shot. Some days I get so caught up with work that I have to be reminded to eat, and eat healthy at that. It’s very easy to get consumed when you have tasks to complete and on a timeline but for me if i stop and workout halfway through my day or start my day with a workout I complete tasks almost effortlessly.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

When I first became heavily involved in this work and realized i wanted to be more involved. I ending up quitting one of my jobs because I knew deep down it was the right decision. It went against everything I have ever known. It was scary, a lot of unknowns. I would often find myself questioning my decision and wondering if I was about to eat this one. Fortunately for me it worked out. I found side work, selling clothes, moving jobs, and was ultimately able to make it work. It was scary and some times I didn’t think I was going to make it but i held on and made it.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: narcan_nate

Image Credits
Jordan Verdin & Brandon O’ Connell