Best Self Employment Advocate Podcasts (2024)

1
A Day in the Life of Participant Directed Services 12:38

5h ago12:38

12:38

When asked who decides what activities he does every day, Billy quickly and clearly answers "I do". A life of choice is important to living a good life, and a cornerstone of the self-directed model. Join us as Billy and Lynn dive into 'A Day in the life of Participant Directed Services". Billy is a 37 year-old man who self-directs his services. Lyn…

1
Exploring My ODP 6:05

5h ago6:05

6:05

My ODP is a great hub of information for anyone with a disability in Pennsylvania. Join Carey, a PA Family Network Advisor, as she discusses the importance of using and exploring My ODP. MyODP.org provides a single place for people to access the Office of Developmental Programs' virtual trainings, resources and communications, as well as to registe…

1
Shaka Soul Surfers (Part 1) : Estefania Holt on Compassion for Parent Partnerships in Recreation 15:24

4h ago15:24

15:24

In this episode of the FAST 15 podcast, we are joined by Estefania Holt, founder of Shaka Soul Surfers, a nonprofit organization that brings the joy of surfing to people with developmental disabilities and their families. Estefania's background as a special education teacher, combined with her passion for promoting acceptance and kindness, led her …

1
Roommate Interviews with Two Self Advocates 9:47

3h ago9:47

9:47

Mary Elks and Sara Nye join us to discuss the importance of Roommate Interviews and finding the right match for you. Sara and Mary are both Family Advisors with the PA Family Network and Self Advocates. Check out this resource to get ideas on questions to ask during a Roommate Interview. https://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/critical-questions-ask-po…

1
The Effects of Trauma w/Cheryl Parker 10:17

12h ago10:17

10:17

Cheryl Parker joins us to discuss the effects of Trauma, prevention, and seeking help. Cheryl is the Western Region Director of Person Driven Clinical Solutions. With a Masters of Education, she uses her 29 years of experience and education in Human Services to the benefit of those who use Autism/ID/DD services.…

1
Episode Twenty Three - The Art of Mentorship with Marc Wintjen 22:04

1h ago22:04

22:04

In this episode , Scott and Marc dive into the realm of mentorship providing insights and practical advice, for both mentors and mentees. They start by discussing the process of finding the match highlighting the elements for successful mentorship at all levels. From recognizing personalities to aligning goals listeners receive an understanding of …

1
The Right to Be Forgotten: Fundamental Human Rights in the Digital Realm 34:59

3d ago34:59

34:59

Pat Walshe, Data Protection Officer at Brave, discusses the intersection of artificial intelligence, privacy, and data protection…and how these elements intertwine with fundamental human rights in the digital realm. He also scrutinizes tech industry giants, questioning the authenticity of their privacy claims and the efficacy of their data protecti…

1
Ep #27: How BVI Advocates Can Make a Bigger Impact with NIB’s VP of Public Policy, Rick Webster 41:25

3d ago41:25

41:25

Today, National Industries for the Blind (NIB)’s Spring Conference and Public Policy Forum wraps up with the annual Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill, so it's very fitting that this week Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined by NIB’s Vice President of Public Policy, Rick Webster. Rick brings a unique perspective to the podcast as a sighted person passionately commi…

1
Accessing Assistive Technology w/ ODP, Part 2 8:21

6h ago8:21

8:21

Jeremy Yale and Lauren House (ODP) join us for a two-part podcast to discuss the benefits of Assistive Technology and accessing it through the waiver system Jeremy is the Director of the Bureau of Policy and Quality Management on behalf of ODP and Lauren House is the Director of the Bureau of Community Services on behalf of ODP. The Office of Devel…

1
Accessing Assistive Technology w/ ODP, Part 1 7:41

2d ago7:41

7:41

Jeremy Yale and Lauren House (ODP) join us for a two-part podcast to discuss the benefits of Assistive Technology and accessing it through the waiver system Jeremy is the Director of the Bureau of Policy and Quality Management on behalf of ODP and Lauren House is the Director of the Bureau of Community Services on behalf of ODP. The Office of Devel…

1
Navigating Educational Transitions with Jane Singleton 20:06

5h ago20:06

20:06

Show Notes: Today on the FAST 15, we welcome Jane Singleton, an expert in educational development and coaching with over 12 years of experience. Jane brings a wealth of knowledge in the fields of psychology, communication studies, and special education, having earned her B.S. from James Madison University and an M.A. from the College of William and…

1
Vendor Fiscal and PDS- Talking with a Common Law Employer 16:27

6h ago16:27

16:27

Nicole and Linda Sue, two PA Family Network advisors with decades of experience in the ID/A field, discuss their experience as Common Law Employers through the Vendor Fiscal model of Participant Direction. The Vendor Fiscal/Employer Agent (VF/EA) Financial Management Services (FMS) model is a self-directed service delivery approach. The model is in…

1
Wellness as a Way of Life w/ Chou Hallegra 12:08

6h ago12:08

12:08

Wellness isn't one 'set' action or method- it's all-encompassing. Chou Hallegra joins us to discuss Wellness as a Way of Life. Chou oversees the Philadelphia Family Support Projects at Vision for Equality. She is a mental health specialist and a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) trainer and consultant passionate about promoting wellbeing and b…

1
Agency with Choice and PDS- Talking with a Managing Employer 23:30

1d ago23:30

23:30

Darcy and Sue, two PA Family Network advisors with decades of experience in the ID/A field, discuss their experience as managing employers through Agency With Choice. Agency With Choice is a service delivery option in which individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Autism and/or their family members are able to self-direct their services – whi…

1
Secure DeFi Investments and The Future of Finance 37:57

6m ago37:57

37:57

Greg Jizmagian, CoFounder and CTO at Exponential, shares how trust is being rebuilt in the financial sector through blockchain technology, and ways users are regaining financial autonomy. He also explains the intricacies of making complex DeFi platforms approachable, striking the balance between detail-rich data and a seamless user experience. Key …

1
Ep #26: How Changing Public Policy Will Create More BVI Jobs with Luke Messer and Jeff Mittman 41:46

10h ago41:46

41:46

This week, Dr. Hoby Wedler dives deep into the world of policy change and advocacy with two remarkable individuals, former Congressman, Luke Messer and Jeff Mittman, CEO of Bosma Enterprises. Luke, with his extensive background in politics and public service, and Jeff, a true advocate for the blind and visually impaired through his leadership at Bo…

1
Medical Complexities and Keeping Families Together w/ Jennifer Harniman-Crangle, LSW 20:48

3d ago20:48

20:48

Jennifer Harniman-Crangle, LSW joins us to discuss the challenges that families with medically complex loved ones face trying to receive the care and services they need. Jennifer is a Family Navigator with Philadelphia Coordinated Health Care (PCHC), working on behalf of ODP.By PA Family Network

1
Championing Supported Employment (Part 2): The Journey of JR Stevens 16:00

3d ago16:00

16:00

In this episode, we are picking up where we left off with JR Stevens. Join us as we illuminate the strengths and potential of individuals like Mike, who has Williams syndrome, and show the world how tailored education and employment can significantly enhance their lives. Mike's story is one of perseverance and the remarkable impact of aligning work…

1
The War of Technology: How AI and Crypto will Converge Over Time 26:54

5d ago26:54

26:54

Paul Barron, Founder of the Paul Barron Network, examines power, corruption, and the technology war he expects to see over the next 20 years. He also discusses why gaming is the gateway to Web3 growth, and will lead to a steep adoption curve. Key Takeaways: How people underestimate AI's ability to scale, despite its speed and the latest advancement…

1
Ep #25: BVI Advocacy, Public Policy, and Speaking Up on Capitol Hill with Vivian Fridas 38:16

13d ago38:16

38:16

Are you ready to stand up and make a real impact on the world for BVI folks? In this motivating and inspiring episode of Heard & Empowered, Dr. Hoby Wedler welcomes Vivian Fridas to the podcast to share how, regardless of ability, we can all thrive and contribute meaningfully to the world. Vivian was born with cone-rod dystrophy, and the discrimina…

1
Championing Supported Employment (Part 1): The Journey of JR Stevens 17:03

10d ago17:03

17:03

Embark on a heartfelt journey with JR Stevens, a devoted advocate for the special needs community and a tech industry powerhouse, whose life's work has been shaped by his commitment to inclusion and empowerment. As someone who has witnessed the transformative effect of support on people with disabilities, I can't wait to share JR's inspiring tales …

1
Community Affairs Officers- Building Positive Relationships with Trooper Jasmine Berrocal 7:35

27d ago7:35

7:35

Trooper Jasmine Berrocal joins us to discuss her role as a Community Affairs Officer. She shares her experience and chats about the importance of knowing your local law enforcement; particularly as a family/individual with a disability. Members assigned to the Community Affairs Section work with a multitude of community groups and organizations; me…

1
Using Public Data Sets to Monitor Dark Web Activity 25:38

12d ago25:38

25:38

Adam Zarazinski, CEO of Inca Digital and former intelligence analyst, shares his journey from the front lines of international security to leading the charge in harnessing AI for financial innovation. He discusses how Inca Digital’s technology is helping to monitor dark web activity, and gives examples of how they’ve been able to track terrorist fi…

1
Ep #24: Redefining Workforce Inclusion and Employment Equality with Shannon Satterfield 35:24

24d ago35:24

35:24

As we gear up for National Industries for the Blind Public Policy Forum 2024, Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined by Shannon Satterfield, Director of Professional Services at IFB Solutions, to share his extraordinary journey of struggle and advocacy. Shannon was born with achromatopsia and before joining IFB Solutions, he encountered numerous challenges desp…

1
Mastering IEP Development with Catherine Whitcher (Part 2) 16:25

25d ago16:25

16:25

In this captivating continuation of the Fast 15 podcast, we delve deeper into the world of special education with the remarkable Catherine Whitcher, a passionate advocate with over two decades of experience. Catherine sheds light on the transformative concept of Master IEP Coach®, a groundbreaking program designed to facilitate collaboration among …

1
Reducing Your Data Footprint and Confronting The Illusion of Privacy 34:47

1M ago34:47

34:47

Naomi Brockwell, Founder of NBTV Media, discusses the true cost of “free tools,” and why we need a major mindset shift when it comes to trading value for value. She also discusses the illusion of privacy versus the reality that data brokers are working in, and how AI may make the data broker’s job obsolete. Key Takeaways: The easiest ways to reduce…

1
Ep #23: Leading Change for the Blind and Visually Impaired with Lee Nasehi, CEO of VisionServe Alliance 36:38

19d ago36:38

36:38

You’re in for an inspiring episode this week as Lee Nasehi, the President and CEO of VisionServe Alliance, joins Dr. Hoby Wedler! The impact of Lee’s long-standing dedication to the blind and visually impaired community cannot be overstated, and it has brought significant changes. Today, Lee shares her journey of becoming a seasoned advocate and ex…

1
Who is Advocates in Action? - Part 1 19:46

21d ago19:46

19:46

On this first episode of Beyond Barriers, we talked with Advocates in Action Rhode Island. Who are they? What do they do? We talk about their upcoming two-day 2024 Self-Advocacy Conference on May 9 and 10, 2024, what to expect, and more. Enjoy! Learn more about the conference and how to register on their website at: https://www.advocatesinaction.or…

1
Mastering IEP Development with Catherine Whitcher (Part 1) 15:47

28d ago15:47

15:47

Join Specially-Designed Education Services as we get to know as we get to know Catherine Whitcher, founder of Master IEP Coach® Mentorship. Check out BOTH Specially-Designed Education Services and the Functional Academics Program at www.sdesworks.com Master IEP Coach® at: https://www.masteriepcoach.com/. Growing up alongside a sibling with Down syn…

1
Measuring The Speed of AI Through Benchmarks 31:45

26d ago31:45

31:45

David Kanter, Executive Director at MLCommons, discusses the work they’re doing with MLPerf Benchmarks, creating the world’s first industry standard approach to measuring AI speed and safety. He also shares ways they’re testing AI and LLMs for harm, to measure—and, over time, reduce—the potential harms of AI. Key Takeaways: How they’re using resear…

1
Ep #22: The Importance of Self-Belief with NSITE Graduate Yasmin Campbell 35:04

26d ago35:04

35:04

If you're looking for inspiration on your job search, this week's conversation is sure to deliver. Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined by Yasmin Campbell, a graduate of the NSITE program and a champion for self-belief, self-advocacy, and furthering opportunities for the BVI community. Yasmin's plans took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with retinit…

1
(Part 2) Empowering Inclusivity with Siblings: Dr. DeShanna Reed's Advocacy Journey in Special Education 19:57

1M ago19:57

19:57

In this captivating episode of the Fast 15, join us for the second part (Check out Part #1 Here on SDESworks.com) of our insightful conversation with Dr. DeShanna Reed, where we delve deeper into the intricacies of educational consulting and the transformative power of compassionate strategy. Dr. Reed, a renowned two-time TEDx speaker, author, and …

1
Cherishing the World of Analog, and Advocating For Your Right to Privacy 25:53

1M ago25:53

25:53

Carissa Véliz, Associate Professor at the Institute for AI at the University of Oxford, discusses how our personal data is the currency of power for tech giants, and ways the balance can be tipped back in favor of individual rights. We also address the privacy implications of large language models, and consider whether OpenAI and tools like ChatGPT…

1
Ep #21: You CAN Find a Career You Love with Lighthouse for the Blind Seattle's LaKenia Garnes 29:18

1M ago29:18

29:18

Are you encountering challenge after challenge in your job search? If so, you need to listen in. Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined this week by LaKenia Garnes, the Purchasing Assistant for the Base Supply Center at Lighthouse for the Blind Seattle. She shares how she overcame obstacles and job rejections to finally find a position that she loves and where …

1
(Part 1) Empowering Inclusivity with Siblings: Dr. DeShanna Reed's Advocacy Journey in Special Education 16:58

1M ago16:58

16:58

At Specially-Designed Education Services (SDES) we LOVE highlighting amazing current and former Special Education Administrators along with our amazing Special Education Teachers! In this episode of the Fast 15, meet Dr. DeShanna Reed, a distinguished TEDx speaker, author, and seasoned educator specializing in special education and student behavior…

1
Harmonizing User Privacy with Web Functionality and Ad-Blocking Technology 39:00

2M ago39:00

39:00

Ryan Brown (Filterset Engineer at Brave) and Peter Snyder (Senior Privacy Researcher at Brave) discuss the latest advancements in ad-blocking technology, and how Brave's control over its browser stack plays a crucial role in maintaining a private yet fully operational Web experience. They also reflect on the resilience of the ad-blocking community,…

1
Ep #20: Considering a Job in Manufacturing as a BVI? Brandi Hunter Shares What You Need to Know 33:05

2M ago33:05

33:05

In the search for your dream job, hard work and dedication truly do pay off, a truth vividly embodied by this week’s guest, Brandi Hunter. Serving as the Human Resources Staffing Coordinator at Blind Industries & Services of Maryland (BISM), Brandi shares with Dr. Hoby Wedler her inspiring journey to securing a job she is passionate about. Her path…

1
03/23/24 The Classic Car Show 55:49

2M ago55:49

55:49

With Tom Cox and Richard LentinelloBy Tom Cox and Richard Lentinello

1
Empowering Paraeducators: Unifying and Unveiling Functional Academics with Deborah Frazer 15:29

2M ago15:29

15:29

Introducing SDES Functional Academics Program Trainer, Deborah Schlomer-Frazer - A journey highlighting Deborah's inspiration and expertise in special education in her work with paraeducators. Deborah shines a guiding light on the Functional Academics curriculum. As a fresh doctoral graduate, she shares the intricacies of fostering autonomy and ent…

1
When Power Goes Unchecked (Crypto Wars, Privacy Rights, & Mandating Encryption) 30:09

2M ago30:09

30:09

Josh Swihart, CEO at Electric Coin Co., discusses public perception of pseudonymity versus privacy, and how this impacts adoption of privacy preserving products. He also explores the increasing challenge of crypto wars—which impacts cryptographic and privacy rights worldwide—and why he believes encryption should be mandated for US citizens. Key Tak…

1
Ep #19: Land Your Dream Job: How Hard Work Paid Off for Thomas Stivers at the Travis Association for the Blind 37:21

2M ago37:21

37:21

Get ready for an inspiring story of tenacity and hard work as Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined by Thomas Stivers, Systems Administrator for the Travis Association for the Blind at Austin Lighthouse. Ever since high school, Thomas had big dreams of working with computers, but it wasn’t until later in his career that these dreams would become reality. Thoma…

1
EdTech: (Pt. 2) Navigating the Intersection of Accessibility, Technology, Innovation and Special Education with Joe Brazier 15:46

2M ago15:46

15:46

Unlock the transformative potential of technology in the special education space with our guest, Joe Brazier from Microsoft, as we navigate the vital role of inclusive tools designed to empower students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This episode promises to reveal how educators can be equipped with devices such as iPads and smar…

1
Fighting the Privacy Washing of Big Tech with ProtonMail 35:54

2M ago35:54

35:54

Andy Yen, Founder & CEO at Proton, discusses how big tech is presenting a false sense of privacy to its users—and why this is dangerous. He also unpacks the confusion between privacy and anonymity, and how where you live impacts your right to each. Key Takeaways: How Proton has attracted users and early adopters while sticking to a privacy-first ma…

1
Ep #18: How Valley Center for the Blind is Empowering BVI Individuals to Succeed 34:29

2M ago34:29

34:29

Reynaldo Villarreal is the director of workforce development at Valley Center for the Blind (VCB) in Central California, one of NIB’s associated nonprofit agencies. He joins Dr. Hoby Wedler to share his story about blindness and the impactful work he does at VCB. Rey explains the impact a nonprofit like Valley Center for the Blind have on employmen…

1
Panel Discussion: Living Your Best Life! 57:34

2M ago57:34

57:34

This is a special recording of a panel discussion of the Imagine Autism Virtual Workshop that focused on Adult Life, which was hosted by the Autism Programs at the UNM Center for Development and Disability. Six autistic adults share their own experiences about their diagnosis of autism; life with friends, family and general social relationships. Th…

1
EdTech: (Pt. 1) Navigating the Intersection of Accessibility, Technology, Innovation and Special Education with Joe Brazier 20:52

2M ago20:52

20:52

Discover how a former coach turned his playbook towards revolutionizing special education with technology. Joe Brazier from Microsoft's K-12 education team joins us to share his inspirational journey from the sidelines to the forefront of educational innovation. His story is one of unexpected turns, leading to a profound impact on how educators uti…

1
Episode Twenty Two - Speaking with CEO of "Advocate To Win" Heather Hansen 23:03

3M ago23:03

23:03

On March 7th, ACP's very own Scott Cammisa and CEO of Advocate to Win Heather Hansen connected to speak about ways veterans can advocate for themselves. In this episode, Heather shares her invaluable insights on navigating the professional landscape with her 3 E's - Energy, Evidence, and Empathy. Discover how to harness these principles to propel y…

1
Private Keys: The Solution to Combat AI Fraud? 28:54

2M ago28:54

28:54

Preston Byrne, Partner at Brown Rudnick LLP, discusses the benefit of using public private keys as a solution to authenticate communication, and avoid both AI scams and fraud. He also shares his predictions for how AI and cryptocurrency will work together in the future, leaning on each other’s polar-opposite strengths. Key Takeaways: The role that …

1
Ep #17: Scarlet Nishimoto: From 60 Job Application Rejections to a Career Filled with Financial Stability at NIB's CMS Program 25:37

2M ago25:37

25:37

Scarlet Nishimoto endured over 60 job application rejections due to the bias and social stigma that exist around blindness in the hiring world. But her unstoppable and relentless nature, along with her heart-centered mission of helping the BVI community, led her to continue searching. Discover how she has built a meaningful, purposeful, and success…

1
Inclusive Education: IEP Assessment for Functional Academics, and Work-Based Learning with Lisa Huffmaster 15:00

2M ago15:00

15:00

🙏 Special Thanks to Our Sponsors A heartfelt thank you to our generous sponsors, Specially Designed Education Services, publishers of The Functional Academics Program. 🎙️ Episode Highlights: Breaking Barriers in Special Education Hey there, educators! Welcome to another inspiring episode of The FAST 15. Today, we're diving into an uplifting convers…

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Self Employment Advocate Podcasts

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