Friends For Life Podcast

In this episode of the Friends for Life Podcast, Tony Stuart dives deep into the power of social intelligence and how mastering this skill can transform both personal and professional relationships. Tony shares valuable tips on approaching problems with empathy, fostering better communication, and building stronger teams. From being "soft on the person and hard on the problem" to the importance of...

Join Dr. Craig Escude in this enlightening episode of IDD Health Matters as he sits down with Robert Scholz from the University of New Hampshire's Institute on Disability. Robert shares in-depth insights into the National Center for START Services, a pioneering program designed to provide mental health support and crisis prevention for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (...

In this episode of the Friends for Life Podcast, we take a deep dive into the essential field of care for individuals with developmental disabilities. This vital work goes far beyond basic services—it's about fostering independence, promoting inclusion, and ensuring that individuals with unique needs can lead fulfilling lives within their communities. We explore how specialized care, including spe...

In this compelling episode of IDD Health Matters , Dr. Craig Escudé sits down with Cathy Service, a nurse practitioner with decades of experience in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Cathy shares her inspiring journey, from her early days working in a state institution to becoming a leader in dementia care for individuals with IDD. Listen as Cathy discusses the challe...

In this heartfelt episode of the Friends for Life Podcast , we sit down with the remarkable Mike Hayes, winner of the prestigious Annie Sullivan League Award, to explore his inspiring journey of service, creativity, and advocacy. Mike shares stories from his early days mentoring youth through theater and music, his transition to working with adults in the developmental disabilities community, and...

In this inspiring episode of the IDD Health Matters Podcast, Dr. Craig Escude is joined by three dedicated occupational therapists from UC Health at the University of Colorado. Bree Williams, Kelly Corley, Margaret Ries share their journeys into the field of occupational therapy and their specific involvement with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID). They delve into t...

In this episode of the Friends for Life Podcast, we sit down with Chris Hart and Jane Meyer from the Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities. With a combined 47 years of experience, Chris and Jane share their vital work in the Provider Support Department, ensuring compliance, fostering provider growth, and enhancing the quality of care for individuals with developmental disabilities. From...

In this episode of the Friends for Life Podcast, we dive into the U.S. Department of Labor's groundbreaking proposal to phase out 14(c) certificates, a decades-old provision allowing employers to pay workers with disabilities less than minimum wage. This historic move marks a pivotal step toward ending subminimum wage employment and fostering greater economic equity and community inclusion for ind...

In this episode of IDD Health Matters , Dr. Craig Escudé is joined by Bethany Toledo and Becky Watson from the Ohio Alliance of Direct Support Professionals (OADSP). Together, they discuss the vital role of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Bethany and Becky share OADSP's mission to educate, elevate, and empower DSPs thr...

In this episode of the Friends for Life Podcast , Tony Stuart dives deep into the heart of what it means to be a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and, more importantly, a compassionate human being. Reflecting on the core purpose behind the work, Tony challenges listeners to reconnect with the "why" behind their roles. From navigating workplace frustrations to addressing the chaos caused by negati...

In this episode of the Friends for Life Podcast, we dive into an inspiring story of resilience, innovation, and hope. Christopher Moore, a father of four with three children on the autism spectrum, shares his journey of understanding his children's unique needs and behaviors. After years of trial and error, Moore discovered the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to bridge the communication...

In this episode of the IDD Health Matters Podcast , host Dr. Craig Escudé sits down with Dr. David Fray, a trailblazer in dentistry and healthcare for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Dr. Fray shares his inspiring journey, from growing up in a disability-friendly household to a career that has spanned private practice, teaching, global health initiatives, and lea...

In this insightful episode of the Friends for Life Podcast , Tony Sttuart shares essential tips for navigating the sometimes complex process of choosing the right provider or independent provider agency. With a focus on recognizing red flags, Tony offers practical advice for individuals and families to ensure they find a provider that truly meets their needs. Tony discusses key considerations, inc...

In this episode of the Friends for Life Podcast , we delve into the U.S. Department of Justice's lawsuit against Pennsylvania, highlighting claims of discrimination under the Fair Housing Act. The discussion centers around the state's controversial requirement for automatic sprinkler systems in community homes for individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism, a mandate not imposed on othe...

In this special episode of IDD Health Matters , Dr. Craig Escudé is joined by John Dickerson, a lifelong advocate and innovator in the field of supports and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Recorded live at the NASDDDS conference in Portland, Oregon, John shares his inspiring journey that began in 1973 with The Arc, his commitment to empowering indiv...

In this episode of the Friends for Life Podcast, Tony Stuart dives into the world of Adult Day Support (ADS) programs and how they can serve as a bridge to greater independence and personal growth. He challenges the misconception that ADS programs are just about filling time and highlights their potential to teach valuable life skills, from creative projects to physical activities like basketball...

In this episode of the  Friends for Life Podcast , we dive into the looming threats to Medicaid and what they could mean for individuals with developmental disabilities. With Republicans set to take control in Washington, disability advocates are raising alarms about proposals to reshape Medicaid through measures like block grants and work requirements. These changes could undermine the nation's s...

In this episode of the IDD Health Matters Podcast , Dr. Craig Escudé welcomes Kelley Shepherd, a dedicated Direct Support Professional (DSP) with over 15 years of experience. Kelley shares her perspective on what it means to truly support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in living their best lives. From advocating for dignity of risk to respecting personal choices...

In this episode of the Friends for Life Podcast, we sit down with Nabil Shaheen, Community Outreach and Communications Manager for the Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities. Nabil shares his journey from journalism and marketing into a role that blends his professional passions with meaningful advocacy work. He discusses the rewarding challenges of shaping the board's messaging, celebra...

In this heartfelt episode of IDD Health Matters , Dr. Craig Escude sits down with Deb Davis, a dedicated nurse and advocate for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Deb shares her inspiring journey into the field of IDD support, reflecting on how she found her calling and became a champion for person-centered care. Deb discusses the challenges of working in this fiel...

In this heartfelt episode of the Friends for Life Podcast , Tony Sttuart speaks directly to parents and guardians of individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD). Tony highlights the unique challenges caregivers face—balancing long work hours, providing Direct Care at home, and dealing with unreliable resources—all while striving to ensure the best for their loved ones. Tony s...

  In this episode of the Friends for Life Podcast, we explore the challenges facing the direct support professional (DSP) workforce, despite recent increases in hourly wages. Although DSPs saw an average hourly wage of $15.79 nationwide in 2022—a historic first—the high turnover rate of over 40% continues to strain disability service providers, who are struggling to maintain adequate staff. Many p...

In this episode of the IDD Health Matters Podcast , host Dr. Craig Escudé is joined by Julie Foster Hagan, Louisiana's State Director of Developmental Disability Services. Recorded live from the NASDDDS conference, Dr. Escudé and Julie discuss the vital work being done to enhance health equity and employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Julie shar...

In this episode of the Friends for Life Podcast, our guest shares a heartfelt journey into the world of Direct Support, highlighting the deep connections he's built with those he cares for and the personal growth he's experienced. Since starting his career nearly two years ago, he's not only found joy in supporting others but has also received support himself, especially in pursuing his dream of b...

In this episode of the Friends for Life Podcast , we dive into recent research that reveals a striking rise in autism diagnoses across the United States, up by 175% over the last decade. This increase spans all age groups, but some groups are experiencing even higher rates, especially young adults and minority children. The study, published in JAMA Network Open , shows autism prevalence has more t...