DSP Talk

What if, instead of asking, “How do we stop this behavior?” we asked, “Why might this be happening in the first place?” In this episode of DSP Chat, host Asheley Blaise builds on a conversation with Sharon Cyrus Saveri and looks at how understanding the whole person can help Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) respond with greater compassion, recognize unmet needs, and provide more effective, pers...

Sharon Cyrus-Savary is a licensed mental health professional and program leader with a focus on trauma-informed, evidence-based, and equity-centered care for individuals with neurodevelopmental differences across the lifespan. Her extensive experience encompasses intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, forensic psychology, substance use, and behavioral health program development. Shar...

In this engaging episode, Asheley explores critical insights from her discussion with Lace Kitchen. She delves into the essence of who should hold decision-making power in the lives of people with disabilities and emphasize that the answer should always begin with the individual. Supported decision making is a faith-based practice in people's abilities to make informed choices with the right suppo...

Lace Kitchin serves as the Director of Supported Decision Making at AIM Services. Her journey with Supported Decision Making New York started in 2023 as a facilitator, progressing to Assistant Director, and then Director by June 2026. Known for her passion for person-centered support, she is recognized for training facilitators and educating various stakeholders about supported decision making agr...

In this episode of DSP Chat, Asheley artfully navigates the delicate balance between assistance and autonomy, posing vital questions about the true nature of support. Building upon the central theme of independence, she discusses not only the acquisition of daily life skills such as cooking and managing finances but also emphasizes the significance of building communities and relationships outside...

Sharonda Johnson is a Senior Residential Habilitation Specialist and Support Broker with over 15 years of experience in the intellectual and developmental disabilities field. She began her career as a temporary direct support professional in a day program and quickly advanced to a teacher leader. Sharonda later transitioned into residential services, serving as an Assistant Behavior Intervention S...

Join host Ashley Blaise in an enlightening episode of DSP Chat as she unpacks an episode of "DSP Talk" featuring Patrick and his collaboration with Emme, a thoughtful and dedicated DSP. In a world where it's easy to make quick decisions on behalf of others, this episode emphasizes the difference between helping and empowering. Through Patrick's experience, the story reveals how listening and respe...

Patrick is known for his vibrant personality and a knack for making people laugh. As a dedicated participant in various programs, including day programs and night recreational events, he is celebrated for his enthusiasm and love for dance. Patrick holds the proud title of the biggest fan of Stewart's Shop and is recognized for the positivity he brings to every environment he enters. Emme Emme is a...

In this episode of DSP Chat, Asheley Blaise explores how the revised Code of Ethics reflects the direct support profession's evolution from a caregiver focus to a more multifaceted role that includes advocacy, community connection, and relationship building. The conversation addresses critical topics like cultural humility, technology equity, and self-care, emphasizing their importance in providin...

John Raffaele is the Director of Educational Services at the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP), with over 40 years of experience in the human services field. Throughout his career, John has focused on direct support, social work, professional education, and workforce development. He has made significant contributions to training and mentoring thousands of direct support pr...

In this episode of DSP Chat, host Asheley Blaise delves into the power of appreciative inquiry in direct support work. When we shift from traditional 'fix-it' methods to approaches that emphasize listening, co-creation, and honoring the voices of individuals being supported we support the whole person. Emphasizing the importance of asking better questions, this episode invites listeners to reconsi...

Baturu Mboge : Baturu Mboge is a dynamic advocate for person-centered systems in the field of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). With a diverse career that began in community-driven initiatives across Africa, Mboge brings a unique blend of global and local insights. He has progressed from being a Direct Support Professional (DSP) to holding the position of Vice President of Learnin...

Asheley Blaise explores the intersection of AI and human services, focusing on its impact on Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). The episode navigates concerns about AI replacing DSPs, emphasizing AI's role in eliminating repetitive tasks and enhancing support quality. Key insights include the need for DSP involvement in tech development and the importance of human judgment and empathy. Ethical c...

Doug Golub is a seasoned thought leader in the healthcare technology and human services sector with over 20 years of pioneering experience. As a founding member of Microsoft Health Solutions Group, Doug has been pivotal in promoting person-centered practices, Medicaid transformation, and data-driven solutions. Currently, he leads Data Potato LLC, focusing on responsible technology and data utiliza...

In this episode we unravel the common transition challenges faced when a direct support professional is promoted to a supervisor. Asheley breaks down several key themes, including the importance of developing people, the art of clear and open communication, cultivating problem-solving capabilities among staff, and the ongoing creation of positive program cultures. From actionable tips on schedulin...

Monica Robinson is a seasoned leader in workforce advancement, with a rich background as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and various leadership roles within the field. She currently serves as the Vice President of Workforce Advancement at the New York Alliance for Inclusion and Innovation, where she advocates for the workforce's voices and perspectives to be at the forefront. Monica's career t...

In this insightful episode, Asheley Blaise delves into the concept of "Dignity of Risk," exploring its crucial role in the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. This episode is a compelling narrative that challenges conventional practices and calls for a transformative shift in thinking among caregivers and support professionals. Through Asheley's lens, dignity of risk isn't about...

Christopher Lyons is the CEO of AIM Services Incorporated, a role he has held since 2018. With a rich background as a trial attorney, Christopher has over 25 years of legal experience across various U.S. jurisdictions. He has also served in the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities and has worked as national counsel for a major human services insurance program. Christoph...

Explore the essential themes of rights, responsibilities, and advocacy for people with developmental disabilities with Asheley Blaise in DSP Chat. This episode simplifies complex topics like self-advocacy, supported decision making, and creating life plans, emphasizing that people with disabilities are active decision-makers and self-advocates. Learn about promoting independence while respecting a...

Katrina Hazell is a dynamic motivational speaker, life coach, and author, known for her inspiring book "Special Education to College the Katrina Story, Breaking Those Glass Ceilings". As the founder and Executive Director of Disability Champion Mentoring Network Incorporated, Katrina is dedicated to empowerment, self-direction, and disability advocacy. She holds the position of Vice Chair of the C...

Nick Filarelli is the Executive Director at Core Services of Northeast Tennessee. With nearly two decades of experience, Nick has been transformative in the field of disability services, particularly in integrating technology to promote independence for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He began his career as a direct support professional and became an advocate for enab...

Mike Veny is a renowned mental health advocate and certified corporate wellness specialist who has profoundly influenced conversations on emotional wellness in both professional and personal spheres. He is celebrated for his transformative journey from a professional drummer dealing with his own mental health challenges to becoming an esteemed leader in mental health advocacy. Mike is the recipien...

Michael Hollis is an expert in food systems and urban agriculture, with over two decades of experience at the intersection of food, community, and resilience. He currently holds the position of Vice President for Community Food Security at Services for the Underserved in New York City. Michael has previously managed feeding operations in disaster zones and has a background in environmental complia...

Jennifer Stanford Vogt is an established professional in the human services sector, with a career deeply influenced by serendipity and her belief in divine intervention. A graduate of Keuka College in 2008, Jennifer began her journey as a job readiness and GED instructor, eventually transitioning into the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Her roles have included direct su...

Sindy McKinnies is a dedicated registered nurse with a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing. She has been associated with Cardinal Hayes Home for Children for nearly 17 years, beginning her journey in 2006 as a Direct Support Professional (DSP). Over the years, Sindy transitioned into her current role as a nurse, bringing her hard-earned expertise and passionate commitment to making a difference in th...