Katrina Simmons & Kristi Kastler on Grief, Addiction & Fighting The Fentanyl Epidemic

On this episode of We’re Out Of Time, Richard Taite sits down with Katrina Simmons and Kristi Kastler, two mothers who lost their sons, Dylan and Devin, to fentanyl poisoning after years of battling addiction.
In this deeply emotional conversation, Katrina and Kristi open up about the reality of trying to save a child struggling with substance abuse, the guilt and stigma parents silently carry, and the devastating moment they received the phone call no parent should ever have to hear. They reflect on the early warning signs, their sons’ experiences with marijuana, prescription pain medication, rehab, relapse, and how today’s drug supply has become more dangerous than ever before.
The episode also explores the emotional toll addiction takes on entire families — from isolation and shame to the difficult decisions parents are forced to make in order to protect both their children and themselves. Richard shares his perspective from years working in recovery and speaks candidly about grief, therapy, and the importance of support systems for families affected by addiction.
Now, through their podcast DK805, Katrina and Kristi are using their sons’ stories to raise awareness about the fentanyl epidemic, break the stigma surrounding addiction, and help other families feel less alone in their grief. Together, they discuss faith, healing, recovery, and why conversations like this are urgently needed as fentanyl-related deaths continue to rise.