Empowering Ability Podcast

In this episode, Eric Goll dives into the real fears families face when considering community inclusion developmental disabilities and offers compassionate, practical advice to move forward. If you’ve been feeling stuck between the safety of segregated programs and the promise of ordinary community life, this episode is for you.   Listeners will discover: - The four most common fears families have...

In this episode, Eric Goll shares a personal story about his sister Sarah and the challenges of traditional disability-only day programs. He explores why these segregated settings often create isolation rather than connection. Listeners will learn what true community inclusion means and why it matters deeply for the quality of life of people with developmental disabilities.   Discover: - The hidde...

In this episode, Eric Goll explores the empowering concept of self determination disability and how it can transform the way families support their loved ones with developmental disabilities. Whether you’re new to the concept or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode breaks down the key ideas, benefits, challenges, and practical steps to get started.   Listeners will discover:   - What...

In this episode, Eric Goll dives into one of the most essential yet often overlooked topics for families: teaching safety skills to loved ones with developmental disabilities. Eric shares practical strategies to empower your loved one to recognize danger, set boundaries, and respond confidently to emergencies.   What you’ll discover: - Why adults with developmental disabilities face higher safety...

In this episode, Eric Goll tackles the challenging but crucial question that every family member faces: What Will Happen to My Loved One with a Disability When I'm Gone? Rather than avoiding the topic, Eric shares practical insights and real-life stories to help you create a customized Life Plan that protects your loved one’s independence and well-being.   Listeners will discover: - The common ris...

In this episode, Eric Goll shares the powerful 8-step roadmap that transformed his family’s approach to future planning for adults with disabilities. If you’ve felt overwhelmed or unsure where to begin, this episode offers clear guidance to create a customized life plan centered on your loved one's strengths, dreams, and independence.   Listeners will discover: - Why defining a "good life" must co...

As 2025 ends, many families care deeply about creating a secure, independent future for their loved ones with developmental disabilities. In this episode, Eric Goll shares four essential keys—from persistence to positivity and planning—that families can use to make 2026 their best year yet.   Listeners will discover: How to turn persistence into intentional, strategic action Why pacing goals to yo...

In this episode, Eric Goll shares a powerful personal story about his sister Sarah and the mindset shifts that unlocked her potential. Discover why focusing on what your loved one can do, rather than what they can’t, is the most important step you can take.   Listeners will discover: - How low expectations limit opportunities and how to break that cycle - The importance of strength-based thinking...

In this episode, Eric Goll shares heartfelt and practical insights gained from his sister Sarah’s journey to more independent living. Discover how shifting your role from caregiver to coach can unlock your loved one’s potential and build their confidence step by step. Eric breaks down essential life skills into manageable groups and offers actionable guidance to help families support adults with d...

In this episode, I share the story of my sister Sarah and how we found better alternatives to group homes that gave her a life of independence, dignity, and joy. Many families feel forced to accept group home placements, but there are real options that offer more privacy, control, and community connection.   What you’ll discover: - What group homes are and why they may not suit everyone - The ins...

In this episode, Eric Goll opens up about a common but challenging question many families face: what is a group home, and is it truly the right choice for your loved one with a developmental disability?   Listeners will discover: - The three main types of group homes and how they differ - The real pros and cons families experience with group homes - Important safety considerations every family sho...

Whether you're getting ready for your loved one to move out of the family home, OR - just trying to prepare them for independence, There is one important life skill they need to learn. And no, it's not about cooking, cleaning, or handling money... It's about knowing how to ask for help. I remember when I first started to gain more independence. Then when I moved out of my parents home for the firs...

There's a cafe a few towns over that hires mostly individuals with developmental disabilities. You may have seen these types of businesses in your area: a cafe, a thrift store, or a packaging facility. The family behind the cafe started it to provide employment for their daughter and to create opportunities for other people with disabilities. A heartwarming story...BUT once you look past the feel-...

Learn how to help your loved one live an awesome, ordinary life! Register for the Life Plan Workshop now: https://www.empoweringability.org/2024lifeplanworkshop/   To get more videos like this, Subscribe to my YouTube channel here: https://bit.ly/YoutubeEricGoll Once Your loved one is defined as 'Special,' their life trajectory changes drastically. You might have been told they will never graduate...

Register now to get your spot in the free Life Plan Workshop: https://www.empoweringability.org/2024workshop/   To get more videos like this, Subscribe to my YouTube channel here: https://bit.ly/YoutubeEricGoll There are times that you get worried about the future of your loved one with a developmental disability... You are not alone. My sister, Sarah, finished high school without any good opportu...

Learn how to create your loved one's Life Plan. Join the Life Plan Workshop Waitlist now: https://www.empoweringability.org/workshopwaitlist/ The 'Special' plan that others have for your loved one with a developmental disability is not a good one. (i.e. a group home and a day program) This is why you must work with your loved one to build your life plan. Person-centered planning is about building...

Download a FREE copy of my “Life Planning 101 Guide” to start your loved one's Life Plan Now:  https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-guide/ To get more videos like this, Subscribe to my YouTube channel here: https://bit.ly/YoutubeEricGoll At 16, I faced a pivotal moment when my parents told me that they named me in their wills to care for my older sister.  As a sibling, being told I have...

Download a FREE copy of my “Life Planning 101 Guide” to start your loved one's Life Plan Now:  https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-guide/   In this story, I share Gabby's journey from loneliness to empowerment. Just like you, Gabby's mom, Jane, wrestled with the worry of who would be there for her child when she couldn't.  That's where support circles stepped in. Come along as we analy...

Download a FREE copy of my “Life Planning 101 Guide” to start your loved one's Life Plan Now:  https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-guide/ To get more videos like this, Subscribe to my YouTube channel here: https://bit.ly/YoutubeEricGoll As a caregiver, you're the backbone of support for your loved one with a disability. But what happens when you're not there?  This fear might haunt man...

Download a FREE copy of my “Life Planning 101 Guide” to start your loved one's Life Plan Now:  https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-guide/ Let me share a personal story about my sister, Sarah. Despite initial challenges, she now lives independently. Initially, I thought Sarah was lazy, but I was wrong. She had learned helplessness. So, I shifted from telling her what to do to coaching h...

Download a FREE copy of my “Life Planning 101 Guide” to start your loved one's Life Plan Now: https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-guide/ To get more videos like this, Subscribe to my YouTube channel here: https://bit.ly/YoutubeEricGoll Are you looking for ways to get more support for your loved one with a disability?  You're not alone.  In this episode, I'll share a heartfelt story and...

Download a FREE copy of my “Life Planning 101 Guide” to start your loved one's Life Plan Now: https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-guide/ To get more videos like this, Subscribe to my YouTube channel here: https://bit.ly/YoutubeEricGoll Ever wonder what it's really like for our loved ones to live in group homes for adults with disabilities? Let me tell you, it's a tough reality. In my l...

Worried about what's ahead for your loved one with a developmental disability? It's totally okay to feel unsure, especially when you are trying to plan for their future. In this episode, I share Jamie's story—a powerful reminder of why just having a Special Needs Trust might not be enough. Jamie's parents did what they thought was best and set up a special needs trust, but when they were gone, Jam...

Download a FREE copy of my “7 Strategies for More Independence” guide to boost your loved one's independence: https://www.empoweringability.org/independence-tips/ To get more videos like this, Subscribe to my YouTube channel here: https://bit.ly/YoutubeEricGoll As a caregiver, you dream of your loved one leading an independent life, meaning more freedom for your loved one... and for you! In this v...

Download a FREE copy of my “7 Strategies for More Independence” guide to boost your loved one's independence: https://www.empoweringability.org/independence-tips/ To get more videos like this, Subscribe to my YouTube channel here: https://bit.ly/YoutubeEricGoll Do you want your loved one with Autism or a developmental disability to have better social skills so that they can have more friends and b...