The Expanding Worlds Podcast

In this episode, host Debra Caldow speaks to some of the young people and the families who are part of the JubyLee Bakes Project. From what they enjoy most about baking to the impact it has on their lives, the young people themselves reinforce the importance of projects like JubyLee for not only changing individual lives but also altering societal perceptions.   https://www.jubyleebakes.org.uk/  ...

In this episode, Debra Caldow talks to Julie about her role at JubyLee Bakes. Julie runs weekly baking sessions and organises volunteers. She shares what motivated her to get involved. Having seen first-hand how support for young people can drop off after full-time education, she felt compelled to act. Julie also discusses the challenges around moving young people into paid employment. She explain...

In this episode, Debra Caldow talks to Ellen Tomlinson from JubyLee Bakes. Ellen explains how she joined together with other families to create JubyLee Bakes. Their goal was to provide meaningful work for her son and other young adults with additional needs. She discusses why they chose baking and how they financed the startup. Ellen also talks honestly about the challenges they faced along the wa...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow discusses why planning is such an essential part of how we support our children. She addresses why planning is often delayed because of overwhelm. But starting small, moving slowly, and doing something every day is a good way to get started. She talks about why using a planning "route map" across four areas—daily living, purpose, relationships, and finance —can a...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow explores the idea of purpose and engaging with purpose. She discusses why having a day-to-day purpose—something meaningful to engage with, not a single life mission—is especially valuable for people with additional needs because it enhances self-worth, emotional wellbeing, independence, and dignity. She discusses why purpose shift's identity from being defined by...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow reflects on the value of making New Year's resolutions. She discusses some of the reasons they fail, including the focus on making dramatic changes without considering daily life demands.   She suggests that rather than relying on the symbolic significance of January 1st, sustainable change requires gradual habit formation, realistic goal setting, and flexibility...

In this episode, Debra Caldow continues her conversation with Rhiannon Gogh, a specialist financial planner, discussing the challenges around deciding who will support your child when you are no longer around. She goes on to talk about the importance of contingency planning, including the role of professional trustees vs. family members. Rhiannon also explains some of the consequences of inadequat...

In this episode Debra Caldow talks to Rhiannon Gogh, a specialist financial planner, who talks about the importance of planning for the future of young people with additional needs. She discusses estate planning, including creating trust funds and the role of life insurance policies as well as the importance of ensuring plans are tailored to each person's unique needs. Rhiannon also explains the f...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow discusses the balance between providing support and fostering independence. Drawing on her personal experience, she reflects on the challenges of co-dependency, the emotional journey of letting go, and the importance of allowing our children to become their own advocates and problem-solvers. Debra addresses the need to sometimes re-assess our motivations behind w...

 In this episode Debra Caldow talks to Julie Walker, from Esteamed Coffee, who explains how they provide employment and social opportunities for young people with additional needs. She discusses why the cafe's physical location and community involvement play a crucial role in its success. Julie also discusses the future of Esteamed, which will focus on developing partnerships with employers and ex...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow explores the concept of independence and why it might be time to redefine how we see independence and include dignity as a core component. She talks about why focusing on small, achievable goals and adaptable are useful strategies in helping developing independence.   Debra also talks about the importance of understanding that independence is not a one-size-fits-...

In this episode, Debra Caldow continues her conversation with Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye talking about practical methods to foster independence. Gwyn discusses the importance of stepping back to avoid "learned helplessness". She also explains why recognizing our children as effective problem solvers aids their long-term goal of greater independence as adults. Gwyn also talks about the positi...

In this episode, Debra Caldow talks to Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye about her innovative approaches to teaching. She discusses why using everyday objects, like wooden spoons, enables a more holistic contextual learning experience. Gwyn also discusses her 'Marvin's Storytime Show,' which is an online literacy program designed for children with complex needs. Marvin's Storytime Show utilizes hig...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow explains why hiring people with additional needs is not only a socially responsible choice but also a smart business decision.  She discusses how inclusive hiring provides companies access to talented employees but can also boost employee morale and enhance customer loyalty. Debra also talks about why the focus should be on removing barriers rather than reducing...

In this episode, Debra Caldow continues her conversation with Dave Friedman, from AutonomyWorks. He discusses the changes required in business recruiting to better match people's talents with business needs. Dave addresses the impact of AI, highlighting both potential risks and opportunities. Dave also talks about the transformational effect of employment and how it represents the positive shift f...

In this episode, Debra Caldow talks to Dave Friedman from AutonomyWorks. He shares the inspiration and journey behind AutonomyWorks, a company that provides meaningful employment opportunities for adults with autism. Drawing from personal experience Dave explains the challenges faced by individuals with autism in securing employment, particularly due to structural job design and traditional hiring...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow talks about the importance of promoting independence in our children with additional needs. She addresses the unintended consequences of doing too much for our children and the value of allowing them to try things on their own to build their resilience and confidence. Debra also speaks of her personal experiences and shares successful strategies, such as habit st...

In this episode, Debra Caldow talks to Claire Wannell from Springboard about  teaching essential daily live skills, such as cooking and personal hygiene. She discusses the methods that can be used to make learning these skills accessible and enjoyable. Claire also talks about the importance of empowering young people to become independent and provides practical tips for families on how to involve...

In this episode, Debra Caldow talks to Francesca Diana from Springboard who shares insights on the challenges of finding work experience . She explores potential solutions, such as increasing business support and involving families in building confidence and essential skills. Francesca also addresses the role of volunteering in helping bridge the gap between education and work.   https://www.sprin...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow talks about the importance of dynamic  planning in areas like education, work, housing, and finances. She explains that while planning is important, it needs to change as life changes and sticking too strictly to one plan can hold people back. She discusses why dynamic  planning helps people adjust when needed, giving clear direction while still leaving room for...

In this episode, Debra Caldow continues her conversation with Ben Simmonds as he provides insights into how parents and educators can better support young people with additional needs. He discusses the importance of listening to and understanding individual perspectives. Ben also talks about the significance of parental belief and involvement in advocating for greater inclusion and supporting the...

In this episode, Debra Caldow's guest is Ben Simmonds, who shares his experiences from being diagnosed with autism, being nonverbal until the age of five, moving through school and university, and then to employment. He discusses how autism impacts his life in multifaceted ways. Ben also touches on the medical and social models of disability and the importance of recognizing both the challenges an...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow addresses the critical question of what happens to our children, when we are no longer around. She outlines some of the challenges family members may face if they are expected or were to assume taking over the role of main support. She also discusses how and why less traditional support models like micro-boards can also offer a personalized and holistic support s...

In this episode, Debra Caldow continues her conversation with Tom Roberts from the Brighton and Hove Care Co-operative discussing some of the reasons why the cooperative approach isn't as popular as it should be. He also talks about the benefits of cooperative care including greater job satisfaction and a more engaged, person-centered approach. Tom also discusses the issues around having a diverse...

In this episode, Debra Caldow talks to Tom Roberts, Chair of the Brighton and Hove Care Co-operative, about how the cooperative model offers an alternative approach to providing care and support. He explains the concept of care cooperatives as organizations that are owned and run by both care providers and receivers. Tom also discusses how this model contrasts with traditional charities and for-pr...