Empowering Ability Podcast

Are you a caregiver for your adult child with a developmental disability? Do you ever feel overwhelmed and scared, wondering who will love and care for your child when you’re no longer able to?

 

I know your fears and struggles, and I’m here to help you discover the power of smartphones in redefining communication, safety, and independence for loved ones with developmental disabilities.

I initially doubted the impact of a smartphone on my sister's life, but it became a gateway to her independence.

In this podcast, I explore how smartphones enhance independence through communication, safety, and organizing life.

Together, we can create a plan for their safety and care in the future. 

 

Are you ready to boost your loved one's independence?!! Click the link below to download your free guide.

Download Your Guide: 10 Tech Tools - To Transition Towards Independence

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.

 

https://www.empoweringability.org/independence-tips/

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/

 

 

 

 

 

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/

 

 

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.

 

https://www.empoweringability.org/independence-tips/

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.

 

Why is a day program presented as the only option for adults with developmental disabilities?

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.

 

To help you learn more about these options, I've created this podcast to explain why there are better options than a day program and what those options look like.

 

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:

https://www.empoweringability.org/workshop/

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:

https://www.empoweringability.org/workshop/

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:

https://www.empoweringability.org/workshop/

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:

https://www.empoweringability.org/workshop/

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:

https://www.empoweringability.org/workshop/

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!

https://www.empoweringability.org/workshop/

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

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

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/

Do you find yourself continually prompting your loved one to take care of their responsibilities around the house?!

It gets exhausting.

I’ve got a different approach for you to try this week…

To start, take a moment to mindfully slow down and breathe and listen to the different ways that your family member is communicating…

 

Check out this episode to learn more!

 

very best,

Eric

 

How do you keep your loved one with a developmental disability safe while enabling them to develop their independence?

There is tension between safety and independence that we experience as families.

If you want to learn how you can stop overprotecting your loved one and limiting their life experiences I share more in this podcast.

Very best,

Eric

 

P.S. If you want to get your FREE copy of the Ultimate Guide to Independence go here: https://www.empoweringability.org/independence

Happy 2022!

This year, I want to help you to live into the "Awesome Ordinary" life goals that you've got in your mind for your loved one and family.

Over the holidays, I read Will Smith's book titled "Will." So it was entertaining, yet profoundly deep and inspirational; I highly recommend it. In the book, Will Smith shares a great story about a Buddhist parable that teaches us that what got us to where we are today isn't going to get us to where we want to go.

I've got a short video/ article that shares the parable and how we can use this wisdom to help you achieve your goals in 2022.

 

very best,

Eric

 

P.S. If you want to get your FREE copy of the Ultimate Guide to Independence go here: https://www.empoweringability.org/independence

Charlotte wanted to support her son, Jamie, to move out into his own home but wasn’t sure how. I had the pleasure of working with Charlotte and Jamie to build an “Awesome Ordinary” life vision in my coaching programs. And recently, Jamie moved into his own home! I had the opportunity to catch up with Charlotte to learn about Jamie’s progress and how they did it!

 

CLICK HERE to join the waitlist for the Life Plan Coaching Program.

I’d love it if you left a kind comment below!

Are you tired of prompting or telling your loved one to do things, maybe do things around the house?
​
This is something that many families that I work with keep bumping into, and it becomes exhausting for you and frustrating for your loved one.
​
In this video/article, I give you my #1 strategy to motivate your loved one! This means less prompting from you, and more choice and control for your loved one.

 

very best,

Eric Goll

P.S. If you want to get your FREE copy of the Ultimate Guide to Independence go here: https://www.empoweringability.org/independence

 

What do we mean by wanting our loved one with a developmental disability to have more independence?

And, why is helping your loved one grow their independence so important?

In this week's podcast, I tackle these questions and share the story of Sarah's journey to independence. Click the link below for the video and written transcription.

 

https://www.empoweringability.org/why-independence/