Best Intellectualdisability Podcasts (2024)

1
226: CrossFit for Our Community with Karen Hurley 30:05

17h ago30:05

30:05

It can be difficult for families to find fitness classes oriented toward individuals with different abilities, whether neurodivergence or physical. However, an emerging fitness category is designed for those who need adaptive and inclusive therapy. On this episode of Parenting Impossible, Annette sits down with guest Karen Hurley, a physical therap…

1
225: Highlighting the Year Ahead 18:19

3M ago18:19

18:19

Navigating the complexities of the special needs community is fraught with challenges, and the current workforce crisis in the disability sector is a cliff we're all facing together. Annette has seen firsthand how the pandemic has eroded the support program landscape as a special needs mom, attorney, and author. It's time we discuss the dire statis…

1
224: Embracing the New Year with Advocacy, Empowerment, and Support 17:36

3M ago17:36

17:36

As the clock struck midnight, marking the start of a new year, Annette found herself immersed in a flood of memories and significant events. On this episode of Parenting Impossible, carrying the weight of sorrow from the loss of her beloved daughter Elizabeth but strengthened by ten years of affection and the development of the Special Needs Law Gr…

1
223: Embracing a Sabbatical Year: Reflections on Change, Growth, and Finding True Joy 14:32

5M ago14:32

14:32

Sometimes, it’s essential to step back and assess the path we're on - that's exactly what I did this year. After years of fighting the impacts of a global crisis on both my personal and professional life, I made the radical decision to take a sabbatical year. A year to disconnect from “extracurriculars” and focus on my business, my team, and myself…

1
Advocating for Universal Changing Tables: Changing Spaces Campaign 51:39

6M ago51:39

51:39

Ever felt the pangs of frustration trying to navigate public spaces with a disability or care for someone who does? This frustration fueled the journey of an extraordinary parent advocating for change, Jayme Betts who serves as the Massachusetts Chapter Leader of the Changing Spaces Campaign. She shares an illuminating exploration of her mission to…

1
Housing for Adults with Disabilities: Shared Living Solutions 1:13:18

7M ago1:13:18

1:13:18

What's one of the biggest issues most special needs families worry about? Housing. This episode unlocks the complexities of the intricate world of housing for those with some form of intellectual or developmental disability or (IDD) with the help of special guest, Pam Blanton, founder and CEO of Partners4Housing. Tune in to discover how Partners4Ho…

1
The Power of a Picture: Special Needs Portraiture 54:34

7M ago54:34

54:34

What happens when a mother’s fierce love for her special needs child intertwines with her passion for photography? Magic! Join us on this heartwarming journey with Marcie Randall, a dedicated mother, and an exceptional photographer, as she turns her struggles and triumphs navigating the healthcare system for her medically fragile son into a beacon …

1
Transition Planning for a Special Needs Student: A Mom and Son's Successful Journey 30:45

7M ago30:45

30:45

Could you imagine being a mom and an Assistive Technology Specialist, honeycombing through multiple strategies to craft tools that best support your special needs child? Well, meet Cheryl Farley. A passionate mother and a specialist who's spent years perfecting this very craft. She's graced us with her story, detailing the educational journey of he…

1
National Suicide Prevention Month: The Healing Power of Kindness 27:55

8M ago27:55

27:55

The intensity of grief can feel like an insurmountable mountain. A profound loss, the passing of Host Annette Hines' beloved daughter, Elizabeth, led her down a path of unimaginable pain, reshaping her identity as a mother and her life. Through the waves of grief, Annette discovered a lifeline in a local grief group, offering a haven where she coul…

1
Demystifying Sensory Processing Disorder: Tips to Help from Harkla 37:55

8M ago37:55

37:55

Are you ready to uncover the mysteries of Sensory Processing Disorder? We're elated to have certified occupational therapist assistants, Rachel Harrington and Jessica Hill, founders of Harkla Co in Boise, ID, on our show today. These remarkable women have recently become Certified Primitive Reflex Clinical Specialists, demonstrating their relentles…

1
Growing Up as a Special Needs Sibling 48:47

8M ago48:47

48:47

Have you ever wondered about the unique life experiences of siblings of special needs children? We promise to enlighten you on this rarely discussed topic, as we welcome two individuals who've lived this reality -- Hillary Dunn Stanisz, a senior attorney at the Disability Law Center in Boston, and Alexandria Nadworny, a special needs financial plan…

1
Building a Supportive Community: The Power of Connection in Special Needs Parenting 39:21

8M ago39:21

39:21

In an emotionally charged conversation with Eric Jorgensen of True North Disability Planning, we venture deep into the heart of community and its indispensable role in special needs parenting. Through recounting her own journey with her daughter Elizabeth, born with a mitochondrial defect, Host Annette Hines unveils how community acted as their fam…

1
Your Autism Game Plan with Joya Van Der Laan 51:18

8M ago51:18

51:18

Navigating the unknown waters of parenting a child with autism can feel like being adrift without a compass. In this dynamic conversation, we had the privilege of speaking with Joya Vandalan, a mother of three and a family nurse practitioner, who found her North Star in the midst of her own experiences raising a child with autism. Joya not only bre…

1
Where to Start with Special Needs Estate Planning: Steps to Success 27:59

8M ago27:59

27:59

Knowing where to start with estate and special needs planning can be an intimidating task. However, don't be daunted, because this episode is your lifeline to understanding and managing this process effectively. Host Annette Hines describes the types of life planning she does for clients -- estate planning, guardianships and legal authorities, and …

1
Back-to-School Checklist for Families with Disabilities 36:31

9M ago36:31

36:31

Navigating the back-to-school season can be a significant challenge, especially if your loved one is living with disabilities. As a mother of a profoundly disabled daughter, Elizabeth, Host Annette Hines has learned that preparation is everything. From creating checklists to setting achievable goals, we explore how to keep things in order, ensuring…

1
Remembering Elizabeth and the Joyful Moments 21:44

9M ago21:44

21:44

This episode is a re-release of a previous episode that aired in May 2020 in remembrance of Annette Hines' daughter Elizabeth who passed away from mitochondrial disease in 2013. Hines reflects on the heartwarming and sometimes heart-wrenching journey of being a special needs parent that involves joy, silver linings found in loss, and the challenges…

1
Raja Marhaba: A Mother's Fight for Special Education Justice 1:03:41

9M ago1:03:41

1:03:41

Hold your breath as you plunge into an awe-inspiring journey with Raja Marhaba, Special Education Advocate, Author (UNSTOPPABLE), and Founder of The Jonathan Foundation for Children with Learning Disabilities. Embark on a monumental David and Goliath journey that showcases a mother's determination in the face of adversity. Raja's struggles with a b…

1
Fighting for Meaningful Inclusion with Tamara Taggart 1:17:28

9M ago1:17:28

1:17:28

As a broadcaster, radio host, and digital media veteran, Tamara Taggart is no stranger to the spotlight. But it's her role as a mother and advocate for her son Beckett, diagnosed with Down syndrome at birth, that propels this episode into an insightful and heartfelt journey. Tamara candidly shares the battles she's faced, from the negativity of med…

1
How to Be Your Best Advocate with State Agencies When Fighting for Services 53:03

9M ago53:03

53:03

Celebrating the 33rd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, we're taking a deep look into ableism and its effects on disability rights. Host Annette Hines is joined in this conversation by Peter Morin, an attorney from the Special Needs Law Group who is committed to providing a voice for the vulnerable and ensuring they receive the ess…

1
Bringing Behavioral Tactics From the Clinic to the House with Jessica Guzman 55:03

9M ago55:03

55:03

Who doesn't seek the comfort of familiar surroundings when dealing with life’s complex challenges? This sentiment rang true for Host Annette Hines during this heart-to-heart with Jessica Guzman, an extraordinary ABA (Applied Behavioral Analysis) therapist and behavioral consultant. They unravel the profound sense of solace found in the natural envi…

1
Transforming Reading Techniques: A Conversation with Susan Kahn 1:04:46

9M ago1:04:46

1:04:46

Have you ever wondered how a powerful support system can change the life of someone with a disability? Join Host Annette Hines in this passionate conversation with Susan Kahn, the brains behind Sue's Strategies, as we take a deep-dive into the significance of community for those navigating life with disabilities. They explore the trials and tribula…

1
How to Fully Fund Your Estate Plan: You’ve Got Questions, We’ve Got Answers 40:21

9M ago40:21

40:21

Do you know what to do with your estate planning documents? Are you sure your assets will be distributed as per your desires? Join Host Annette Hines, and her husband and law partner, Mark Worthington, as they reveal the complex and often bewildering realm of estate planning, focusing especially on how to adequately fund your estate plan. They will…

1
Designing a Disability Support Plan for Independent Living 41:40

10M ago41:40

41:40

Are you ready to untangle the complexities of transition planning and become an effective advocate for your disabled person? Host Annette Hines, founder of Special Needs Law Group and Special Needs Family Services brings you an episode that can be a beacon to guide you through the maze of supports and resource systems. Whether you're a young disabl…

1
Helping Autistic Students Find Their Voice with ABA SPEECH 35:14

10M ago35:14

35:14

Host Annette Hines begins the episode with a reminder that even though summer just started for many of us, for parents with school-age kids, it’s time to start thinking about returning to school. She recommends that parents dust off that IEP and review it for needed changes for the upcoming school year. If you have a high school student with disabi…

1
Avoiding Burnout with Lisa Candera The Autism Mom Coach 49:53

10M ago49:53

49:53

Host Annette Hines of Parenting Impossible welcomes Lisa Candera, The Autism Mom Coach in a discussion about the burnout cycle and how she helps coach parents to get out of this cycle to live healthier. She calls her one-on-one coaching program, "Be the Solid Object," which she explains is "specifically designed for Type A mothers raising children …

1
Empowering Children with Differences and Disabilities with Meg Zucker 46:09

10M ago46:09

46:09

In this episode, Host Annette Hines speaks with Author Meg Zucker. They discuss empowering children with differences and disabilities. By embracing inclusivity, we not only create a brighter future for these children but also foster a society that is compassionate, understanding, and truly representative of the diversity of humanity. More about Meg…

1
Life Milestones and Getting Ready for Summer 33:46

11M ago33:46

33:46

Join Host Annette Hines in this episode as she addresses two common questions that have been on the minds of her listeners. The first question focuses on the milestones in a special needs child's life, while the second question explores the steps parents can take to prepare for summer programs catering to their child's unique needs. Annette emphasi…

1
Celebrating Pride Month and Advocating for the Transgender Community 58:20

11M ago58:20

58:20

We're re-releasing a previous podcast episode from June 2021 that features an interview with Él Martinez and their mother, Ivylee Martinez, regarding gender identity issues in celebratration of LGBTQ+ Pride month in June. Pride Month is a time to recognize the issues, challenges, and discrimination the LGBTQ+ community has faced and to celebrate th…

1
Grit: Honoring the Legacies of Rick Hoyt and Elizabeth 20:22

11M ago20:22

20:22

In this episode, Host Annette Hines honors the legacies of Boston Marathon competitor Rick Hoyt and her daughter, Elizabeth, through a tribute to author and previous Parenting Impossible guest, Jess Ronne, and her use of the word "grit" to mean a will to persevere amidst the challenges of living as a special needs family. Rick Hoyt and his father, …

1
Maximizing Resources for a Stable and Independent Future 54:20

11M ago54:20

54:20

In this episode, Host Annette Hines welcomes guest Anna Maki, Director of Benefits Navigation at the Bobby Dodd Institute (BDI) in Atlanta, GA. She is a clinical counselor and benefits expert with a wealth of knowledge and experience in helping individuals and families with disabilities navigate the complex world of benefits. With a strong educatio…

1
Learning Family Financial Fitness with Children's Stories 56:14

12M ago56:14

56:14

In this episode, Host Annette Hines has a great conversation with Anthony (Tony) Delauney about how to have family financial conversations and teach kids early about how to use money wisely. Anthony is a financial advisor, franchise business owner, and author of several financial education books, including three in the Owning the Dash series. His b…

1
The Next Step Programs & Employment for People with Disabilities 49:02

1y ago49:02

49:02

In this episode, Host Annette Hines speaks with Josh Fields, CEO and Co-Founder of The Next Step Programs (TNS) headquartered in Doylestown, PA. TNS is a nonprofit organization breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for people with disabilities as they transition out of high school into a world of employment. Josh is an experienced leade…

1
Living Courageously and Parenting With Chronic Illness 47:19

1y ago47:19

47:19

Host Annette Hines starts the podcast honoring Holy Week and the celebration of Easter and Christ's resurrection. During the interview, she speaks with Wellness and Small Business Coach Sudi Barre who shares her experience of being diagnosed with Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection (SCAD) and suffering a massive heart attack and open heart surge…

1
More Wisdom on Grit and Grace from Jess Ronne 43:35

1y ago43:35

43:35

In this episode, Host Annette Hines welcomes back Author Jess Ronne to the show to discuss her newest book, Lovin’ with Grit and Grace that was just released in February. Jessica Ronne is an author, speaker, podcast host of Coffee with Caregivers, associate producer of the “UNSEEN” documentary, and caregiver advocate. She is founder and executive d…

1
Update: Tax Time - Special Needs Edition 59:07

1y ago59:07

59:07

It is tax time and we want to revisit a popular episode! Learn from Host Annette Hines and her favorite guest, law partner, and husband, Mark Worthington about answers to four top questions people ask about tax preparation and tax reporting: Can I claim my adult child as a dependent? If I charge my adult child room and board when they are living wi…

1
Parenting Techniques for Neurodivergent Families 45:30

1y ago45:30

45:30

In this episode as we celebrate Women's History Month in March, Host Annette Hines talked with Danielle Sullivan - the founder of Neurodiverging Coaching, an online, sliding scale coaching practice supporting a worldwide, diverse clientele with issues related to neurodiversity, ADHD, autism, and executive functioning for adults and families. In thi…

1
International Rare Disease Day & the Power of Positivity 20:30

1y ago20:30

20:30

This episode commemorates International Rare Disease Day which occurs on last day of February annually. This day is dedicated to raising awareness for the approximately 300 million people around the world living with a rare disease. Host Annette Hines recognizes this day in memory of her daughter, Elizabeth who died in 2013 because of mitochondrial…

1
Reduce Your Workload & Run Your Home Smoothly with Mama Systems 41:32

1y ago41:32

41:32

In this episode, Laura Hernandez and Host Annette Hines discuss the life of a mom and how to reduce the workload and run the home smoothly by applying the organization strategies that Laura developed through her agency, Mama Systems. As a mother of ten, Laura developed these techniques to ensure that her family could have a more peaceful lifestyle.…

1
How Examining My Son's Reading Failures Brought to Light My Own Dyslexia 49:20

1y ago49:20

49:20

In this episode, Host Annette Hines speaks with Lois Letchford. Lois is an educator, writer, and public speaker. When Lois was 39 years old, while she was faced with teaching her son Nicholas how to read, she discovered she had dyslexia. She modified and changed classes as a result of reflecting on her son's reading failures. Now Lois serves as a r…

1
Advocating for Learning Disabilities as a Social Justice Issue 51:52

1y ago51:52

51:52

In this episode, Host Annette Hines talks with Dr. Bibi Pirayesh an educational therapist and Founder of One of One Kids. She holds a Bachelor's in Neuroscience and Education from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master's in Developmental Psychology from Columbia University, focusing on children's development and cognitive neuroscience. She has o…

1
Juggling the Issues: Living with Asperger's Syndrome 34:25

1y ago34:25

34:25

In this episode, we are joined by an author living with a type of autism known as Asperger’s Syndrome, Matthew Kenslow. His journey through life, learning about everyone and everything around him through both compliments and teases, has been an adventure. His goal is to demonstrate to others how autistic people perceive the world in a different way…

1
Resource Roadmaps from True North Disability Planning 52:58

1y ago52:58

52:58

Host Annette Hines welcomes guest Eric Jorgensen of True North Disability Planning whose life mission is to change the reality of the fact that: "It is too hard for the average person to find out what they qualify for, and reach out and get those benefits in place." His roadmaps are downloadable resources for print and online use that are specific …

1
Maneuvering the Medical System with a Rare Disease 44:37

1+ y ago44:37

44:37

In this episode, Host Annette Hines welcomes Erin Prosser and her daughter, Lucy's (Lulu) neurologist, Dr. Christina Bergqvist of the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia to share their story of working together to care for Lulu and treat her neuro-developmental disease, STXBP1 encephalopathy. This is a great example of how a family member and careg…

1
Taking a Sabbatical from Saying 'Yes' 13:18

1+ y ago13:18

13:18

In this episode, Host Annette Hines shares more about her goals for 2023. This year she is taking a sabbatical, not from work, but from all her external commitments. She notes that the term "sabbatical" means taking a break, which most often is associated with a leave from work. However, as Special Needs Companies, which includes her law and truste…

1
Transforming Our 'Wants' to Reality with SMART Goals 35:33

1+ y ago35:33

35:33

What do you want to accomplish this year? Where do you want to be a year from now? For many of us, as soon as we say: "Happy New Year!" we feel the pressure to set resolutions for this year related to our health, personal or professional life. But simply saying: "I want to lose weight this year," notes Host Annette Hines, sets us up for failure bec…

1
Preparing for Your Best Year Yet with Mark Worthington 54:04

1+ y ago54:04

54:04

Our annual podcast episode on Preparing for Your Best Year Yet features the planning duo of Special Needs Law Group of Massachusetts, P.C.: Host Annette Hines and her husband and law partner, Mark Worthington. Do you have an estate plan or do you still need to create one? How long has it been since you've reviewed it? Annette and Mark provide an es…

1
Charitable Giving: How to Make Planned Gifts to Your Beloved Charity 51:41

1+ y ago51:41

51:41

Ever wondered how to give back to a charity or organization that has truly made a meaningful impact on your family? Host Annette Hines shines a spotlight on one of her beloved organizations, Perkins School for the Blind, where her daughter, Elizabeth attended school, to show how easy it is to make planned gifts. Charitable giving is one of the most…

1
Institutionalized and Priced Out of Community-Based Services 1:02:32

1+ y ago1:02:32

1:02:32

Host Annette Hines and her guest, David Goldfarb who is the Director of Policy at the Arc of the United States discuss policy and advocacy issues related to housing and institutional bias in the disability community. Despite the landmark Olmstead decision of the U.S. Supreme Court in 1999 that found that people with disabilities were being segregat…

1
Helping Neurodivergent Children Accomplish What Seems Impossible with Suzy Im 48:55

1+ y ago48:55

48:55

The third in a series featuring unique and innovative solutions for the disability community, this episode features the Co-Founder & Managing Partner of Sponsors of the Future (SoF), Suzy Im. The goals of SoF are to design easier ways for parents and caregivers to access information and advocate for their loved ones, as well as connect neurodiverge…

1
The Future of Diagnosis of Dyslexia and Other Learning Differences 50:39

1+ y ago50:39

50:39

Working at the intersection of artificial intelligence, ed tech, and dyslexia, Guest Hugo Richard of Dystech in Australia is driven to solve complex problems in our society. His goal is to create more awareness about how computer intelligence and artificial intelligence could enable the creation of reliable tools that will positively impact childre…

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Intellectualdisability Podcasts

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