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Empowering people with disabilities to live an incredible ordinary life.
Episodes
Friday Sep 08, 2023
Friday Sep 08, 2023
You’re a loving mother committed to your loved one’s growth.
I know it’s challenging, but there’s a way to help your loved one’s independence flourish.
This short podcast reveals two stories, from family members like you, who transformed their loved one’s lives using daily routines, consistency, and even failure.
Growing your loved one’s independence is possible, and I’ve got the next steps for you in this podcast!
With gratitude,
Eric
Claim your free guide to help you grow your loved one's independence: Download here
Friday Sep 01, 2023
Friday Sep 01, 2023
Is your loved one's progress feeling slow?
I want to share a story with you, one that offers a path to independence that you've been looking for.
In this podcast, you'll learn from Lori's journey, a mother who started breaking down bigger tasks for her daughter into small, manageable steps. Lori's patience and pacing paved the way for her daughter's growing confidence and independence.
This story isn't just about Lori's daughter; it's a process you can use with your loved one.
Listen to learn how you can use small steps to help your loved one make more progress.
With gratitude,
Eric
Claim your free guide to help you grow your loved one's independence:
Download here: https://www.empoweringability.org/independence-tips/
Friday Aug 25, 2023
Friday Aug 25, 2023
I’d like to tell you a story.
Florence, like many moms, always decided for her teenager with a developmental disability, thinking it was for his safety.
But deep down, she realized this made him more reliant on her. So, she made a change. She started letting her son make his own choices.
The result? He became more involved, confident, and capable. Remember, every choice your loved one makes brings them closer to independence.
Listen to the podcast to learn how you can use decision-making to increase your loved one’s independence.
with gratitude,
Eric
Claim your free guide ‘Growing Independence in 7 Simple Steps.’
Download Free Guide
Friday Aug 18, 2023
Friday Aug 18, 2023
Tired of the constant nagging to try and motivate your loved one with a developmental disability to do more at home?
Imagine a world where your loved one is interested in growing their independence without resistance.
The secret is in identifying the perfect opportunity. Let me guide you through it, drawing inspiration from Karen’s story.
In this podcast, I’m going to help you find that right opportunity to engage your loved one.
with gratitude,
Eric
Claim your free guide ‘Growing Independence in 7 Simple Steps.’
Saturday Aug 12, 2023
Saturday Aug 12, 2023
Let’s face it, stepping into the realm of independence for your loved one with developmental disabilities can seem daunting.
But guess what? With a few clever tools and strategies, you can create a home environment that encourages independence while minimizing risk.
This episode is a treasure trove of valuable insights, taking you on a guided tour through two key areas of your home – the kitchen and bathroom.
You’ll discover practical ways to reduce potential hazards, enabling your loved one to confidently perform daily tasks.
Remember, each small step towards independence adds up towards a giant leap towards an Awesome Ordinary Life.
With gratitude,
Eric
P.S. Want to discover 10 ways technology can enhance your loved one’s independence?
Download your free Independence Technology Guide here: https://www.empoweringability.org/techtools/
Friday Aug 04, 2023
Friday Aug 04, 2023
In this podcast, you'll discover the power of two supportive technologies for individuals with developmental disabilities. I’ll show you the potential of GPS tracking and video monitoring, which can create a safety net for your loved one and promote independence.
I also address privacy and consent when using these technologies, while acknowledging the positive impact these tools can have on your loved one’s life.
You’ll learn about user-friendly options like “Find My iPhone” to more sophisticated devices like AngelSense Tracker. Additionally, I explore real-time support through video doorbells and peephole cameras, offering peace of mind, especially when your loved one is home alone.
As you plan the future for your loved one, embrace technology to increase safety and independence.
With gratitude,
Eric
Download Your Guide: 10 Tech Tools - To Transition Towards Independence
Friday Jul 21, 2023
Saturday Jul 08, 2023
Saturday Jul 08, 2023
Welcome to this new episode of the Empowering Ability podcast. Today, I’m thrilled to introduce our guest, Darcy Elks. Darcy is an educator, consultant, human services evaluator, and advocate for people who are societally devalued. With over 35 years of experience working with marginalized individuals, Darcy has collaborated with various groups, including persons with disabilities. Darcy wears multiple hats, not only as a mother but also as a professional facilitator and coach specializing in social role valorization (SRV). Her wealth of knowledge makes her an invaluable resource for families seeking guidance in their own inclusion journeys.
In this episode, we dive into Darcy’s journey as a parent of three adult children, one of whom has a developmental disability, and her experience navigating the path of inclusion over the last 30 years.
Darcy’s personal journey began with her oldest daughter, Mary. From the moment Darcy held Mary in her arms, she and her husband were overwhelmed with love and hope for their daughter’s future. They dreamed of Mary having a good education, developing friendships, pursuing her interests, and eventually finding a job and perhaps even getting married. However, it was through the inspiring families they met in Alberta, who were already living fully inclusive lives, that Darcy and her husband found the strength and encouragement to embark on their own inclusive path.
Their journey started with finding the right preschool for Mary. Instead of seeking a special preschool, they turned to their neighbors and discovered a welcoming Montessori school. This marked the beginning of Mary’s inclusive education, as she became the first child with a developmental disability to be included in that school. Throughout her schooling years, Darcy and her family faced challenges, such as being told Mary couldn’t attend her neighborhood school because of her Down syndrome. However, they persevered, and Mary not only attended her neighborhood school but also developed strong bonds with her peers.
Darcy shares poignant moments from their journey, such as the encounter with Mrs. Wilson, a fourth-grade teacher who initially expressed resistance to having Mary in her class. Darcy’s resilience and determination to advocate for her daughter continued into highschool and led to Mary’s classmates standing up for her inclusion, reinforcing the importance of having supportive relationships.
Upon graduating from high school, Mary expressed her desire to attend university, even though opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities were limited at the time. Darcy and her family worked tirelessly to make this dream a reality. Mary enrolled as a non-matriculated student, focusing on theater and health. She received support from a grad student on campus and engaged in valuable learning experiences while educating others through her presence and participation.
Mary’s inclusion extended beyond education to the workforce, as she began working part-time jobs from the age of 15. Today, she works in the theater industry. Mary continues to contribute to her community, embodying the vision of a fully included life.
Throughout the episode, Darcy emphasizes the power of relationships and the role they play in fostering inclusion. She highlights the importance of seeking to understand others’ perspectives and approaching challenging situations with calmness, patience, and firmness.
Join me on this important discussion and let’s take that crucial step forward.
The 12-Independence Tips Guide!
If you’re ready to help your loved one grow their independence, I invite you to grab our free guide, “12-Independence Tips: Insights from Parents, for Parents.” Just click the link below to get your hands on it.
Friday Jun 30, 2023
Friday Jun 30, 2023
Welcome to this new episode of the Empowering Ability Podcast! Today, it’s my pleasure to bring to you Cesilee Coulson. Cesilee is the Executive Director of the Washington Initiative for Supported Employment, also known as WISE. With 25 years of experience in competitive integrated employment training and technical assistance, Cesilee is an expert in the field. She holds a master’s degree in sports psychology from the University of Oregon, an Executive Coaching certification from the Hudson Institute, and a somatic coaching certification from The Strozzi Institute.
In this episode, we dive deep into the world of supported employment for individuals with developmental disabilities. Cesilee shares her expertise and insights on how to support individuals in gaining and sustaining paid employment. We discuss the importance of cultivating employer relationships, setting clear expectations, and customizing support services to meet individual needs.
Cesilee’s extensive experience in the field, combined with her passion for empowering individuals with disabilities, makes this conversation incredibly informative and inspiring. Whether you’re a family member, a professional, or someone interested in the topic, you’ll find valuable insights and practical advice throughout the episode.
So, without further ado, I invite you to jump right into the conversation with Cesilee Coulson.
The 12-Independence Tips Guide!
If you’re ready to help your loved one grow their independence, I invite you to grab our free guide, “12-Independence Tips: Insights from Parents, for Parents.” Just click the link below to get your hands on it.
https://www.empoweringability.org/independence-tips/
Saturday Jun 24, 2023
Saturday Jun 24, 2023
What are the direct impacts on your loved one with a disability in a special vs ordinary workplace?!
In this podcast, I help you understand the impacts by looking at;
-> the work environment,
-> rate of pay,
-> relationships, and
-> growth opportunities.
The differences are drastic, and I hope that this podcast gives you the tools to be able to make better decisions with your loved one.
The 12-Independence Tips Guide!
If you’re ready to help your loved one grow their independence, I invite you to grab our free guide, “12-Independence Tips: Insights from Parents, for Parents.” Just click the link below to get your hands on it.
https://www.empoweringability.org/independence-tips/
Monday Jun 19, 2023
Monday Jun 19, 2023
Have you ever wondered about the difference between a “special” (i.e. only neurodivergent) and an “ordinary” (i.e. mostly neurotypical) workplace?!!
It’s easy to assume that our loved ones with developmental disabilities simply focus on their job and that the environment they work in doesn’t matter. But have we taken a moment to consider the implications of the workplace environment?
We live in a world where people with developmental disabilities are still pushed towards the “special” environments, and when it comes to work the legacy of sheltered workshops is still deeply ingrained.
As parents and caregivers, the choices we make between “special” and “ordinary” options have a profound impact on the lives of our loved ones, the community we live in, and even the world at large.
In this talk, we’ll take a deep dive into the impacts of special vs. ordinary workplaces by looking at the larger world and community perspective. This will set the stage for next week’s video/podcast where we’ll explore the individual impacts on your loved one of these “special” and “ordinary” workplace environments.
In this podcast, you will gain valuable insights that will empower you and your loved one to make informed decisions for their journey towards an Awesome Ordinary Life! Together, we can navigate the complexities and unlock the possibilities of creating a fulfilling and inclusive future.
Join me on this important discussion and let’s take that crucial step forward.
The 12-Independence Tips Guide!
If you’re ready to help your loved one grow their independence, I invite you to grab our free guide, “12-Independence Tips: Insights from Parents, for Parents.” Just click the link below to get your hands on it.
Friday Feb 24, 2023
Friday Feb 24, 2023
Are you feeling frustrated with the limited options available for your loved one with a developmental disability?
Do you feel like they're just going through the motions at their day program without really growing or experiencing life to the fullest?
If so, I'm here to tell you that there are better options out there.
The truth is, there are better ordinary options available for your loved one. We're here to help you explore and discover the possibilities that exist to help your loved one live an Awesome Ordinary Life, with more independence, real friendships, and even paid employment.
With gratitude,
Eric
P.S. Want to create an Awesome Ordinary Life with your loved one?!
Click the link below to join our free upcoming workshop:
Friday Feb 17, 2023
Friday Feb 17, 2023
Spencer and his mom Elaine joined me in this conversation to share how they went from butting heads with each other to collaboratively creating an Awesome Ordinary Life for Spencer.
For them, it felt like other people were picking up their lives after COVID restrictions eased, and they were stuck in isolation.
Spencer shared that he didn't want to leave his bedroom and was on the edge of depression.
Elaine and I started to work together, and Elaine learned to shift from being the caregiver to the coach. When Elaine started collaborating with Spencer, they took some big steps forward.
One big step forward was starting Spencer's support circle of friends, which is a group of people in intentional, reciprocal and freely given relationships with Spencer.
Spencer's confidence has grown; he's exploring his interests in community, and even landed a paid part-time job!
P.S. Want to create an Awesome Ordinary Life with your loved one?!
Click the link below to join our free upcoming workshop:
Friday Feb 10, 2023
Friday Feb 10, 2023
You might agree with me, or you might disagree with me. But, you must consider the truth of the living environment and experience of the person when we group people with disabilities and force them to live together.
It's also helpful to hear straight from someone with lived experience, so here's what a person shared with me about their experience living in a group home:
"I have a developmental disability and have lived in an extremely toxic group home. People who are placed in group homes don't have the right to pick and choose whom they get to live with, which can create hostility.
I have been yelled at by both staff and roommates, as well as assaulted by roommates. After leaving that group home, I chose to find my place to live with minimal support.
To this day, I have never looked back. I have the freedom to do what I want and eat what and when I want, and if I ever decide I want a roommate I will have the freedom to choose whom I want to live with me."
In this video, I share why group homes create a poor living environment, and how you can create a better living environment and home for your loved one.
P.S. Want to create an Awesome Ordinary Life with your loved one?!
Click the link below to join our free upcoming workshop:
Friday Feb 03, 2023
Friday Feb 03, 2023
Alina, the mother of 17-year-old Juliana, joined me to talk about their experience of going from complete dependence on Mom to Juliana growing her capability and independence.
Alina was doing EVERYTHING for Juliana. The idea of independence was there, but Alina was locked into the habit of doing everything.
When Alina thought about Juliana's independence, her fears kicked in, creating a state of overwhelm and keeping them stuck. This resulted in Juliana learning that she couldn't do things.
Then things started to change when Alina and I began to work together. Alina's awareness and mental outlook shifted, which was the key to unlocking Juliana's independence.
Alina no longer feels like the caretaker and has to solve all the problems. Juliana and Alina are now on an equal footing, having more open dialogue, and Juliana is starting to lead her own life!
P.S. Want to create an Awesome Ordinary Life with your loved one?!
Click the link below to join our free upcoming workshop:
Friday Jan 27, 2023
Friday Jan 27, 2023
Do you pay people to act like your friend?
I didn't think so.
So why is it acceptable for paid supporters to act like our loved one's friend when they are NOT in a friendship?!
The behaviour of a paid supporter acting like a friend causes harm to your loved one.
In this video, I share why it is harmful, what you can do to stop the harm, and how you can redirect that paid supporter to be a bridge to real friendships.
With gratitude,
Eric
P.S. Want to create an Awesome Ordinary Life with your loved one?!
Click the link below to join our free upcoming workshop:
Saturday Jan 21, 2023
Saturday Jan 21, 2023
To help you see more ordinary life possibilities for your loved ones with developmental disabilities, I will share stories of families working with their loved ones to take steps forward to create an Awesome Ordinary Life.
Chloe was in a high school transition program for students with disabilities in her final years of high school.
She became increasingly frustrated by the lack of opportunity the transition program provided and felt like it was holding her back.
Chloe, supported by her mom, Laura, decided to leave the support of the transition program and pursue paid employment.
Today, Chloe is gainfully employed, building meaningful relationships with peers at work, and enjoying her interests in ordinary places in the community.
Want to create an Awesome Ordinary Life with your loved one?!
Click the link below to join our free upcoming workshop that Laura took to start building an Awesome Ordinary Life with Chloe!
Saturday Feb 19, 2022
Saturday Feb 19, 2022
I’ve been talking about life planning and creating a life plan these last few weeks… And I’ve received many questions from families on this topic.
The most common question is… “How do I create a life plan with my loved one?”
To help you get started, I created this episode for you.
very best,
Eric
P.S. The upcoming 'Life Plan Workshop' will help you start building an "Awesome Ordinary" life plan with your loved one.
Get your free seat by tapping the link below if you haven't registered yet!
Register for your (free) 'Life Plan Workshop' seat
Saturday Feb 12, 2022
Saturday Feb 12, 2022
There are two (2) very different paths for your loved one who has a developmental disability...
Which path is your loved one on?!...
The "Special Needs" path -OR- the "Awesome Ordinary" path.
Each path provides a very different life experience.
Listen to this short podcast episode to help you discover what path your loved one is currently on and how it impacts their life.
very best,
Eric
P.S. The upcoming 'Life Plan Workshop' will help you take steps down the "Awesome Ordinary" path.
If you haven't registered yet, get your free seat below!
Register for your (free) 'Life Plan Workshop' seat
Saturday Feb 05, 2022
Saturday Feb 05, 2022
If you don't have a plan, you're planning to fail. - Benjamin Franklin
We need to plan for who will care for our loved one with a developmental disability for when the time comes that we can't. I know this is your #1 fear, and it can be hard to talk about...
But, if you don't have a plan in place, your loved one is at greater risk of falling into the 'system' and experiencing harm. This is the truth.
You want your loved one to have the best life possible, so I've got a short video and article to teach you more about life planning and how you can get started.
very best,
Eric
P.S. If you haven't registered yet, I invite you to join us in the Life Plan Workshop on February 22nd to get started!
Register for the Life Plan Workshop: https://www.empoweringability.org/workshop/