The Expanding Worlds Podcast

In this episode, host Debra Caldow explores the impact we can have as role models for our children with additional needs. She talks about the importance of consistent behavior modeling and why it is so effective in teaching a variety of skills. Debra also shares some practical strategies like breaking down tasks, using visual aids, and video modeling to build on what we show them and to support th...

In this episode, Debra Caldow continues her conversation with Alison Thomas from Unique & Loved talking about uniqueness. Alison discusses the pressure to conform and the societal tendency to highlight differences rather than uniqueness.   She talks about some strategies for fostering self-acceptance and suggests practical steps for understanding and celebrating individuality. Alison also discusse...

In this episode, Debra Caldow's guest is Alison Thomas from Unique & Loved, who shares her journey as a parent. She discusses the challenges of feeling isolated and the societal fears surrounding children with additional needs and why embracing uniqueness has become so fundamental in how she supports her son. Alison also talks about the importance of recognizing the individuality in everyone and w...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow discusses some of the myths around employing young people with additional needs . She discusses why the language we use can often reinforce negative perceptions and employer misconceptions. She also talks about the myths around the concept of 'reasonable adjustments' in the workplace, and the reality that these adjustments are often simple and low cost. Debra als...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow talks to Laura Hutt from the Sand Project about what a job coach does. She discusses the misconceptions, rewards, and challenges the role brings. Laura explains the importance of job matching and vocational profiling, and why one of the key job coach roles is to work with employers to address any apprehensions they might have.   https://www.thesandproject.co.uk/...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow's guest is Katie Shephard, the Work Engagement lead at the Sand Project. She discusses her role encouraging businesses to employ more people with additional needs. Katie talks about how her role encompasses connecting with organizations and working to break down common misconceptions to highlight the positive impact that hiring Sand Project trainees can have on w...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow talks to Nicki Rugman from the ArtiSAND Creative Goods Store, part of the Sand Project, about how this enterprise shop and business helps young people build both their creative and business skills. Nicki explains the importance of balancing creativity with market needs and how that guides the shop's product and promotional strategies. She talks about the importan...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow talks to Carol Noble from the East Toast Cafe, part of the Sand Project, about why working in a café offers young people opportunities to enhance communication, self-esteem, and practical work skills. She also highlights the importance of a structured routine and adaptable tasks to ensure that every student can always participate and remain part of the team. Caro...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow talks to Marita Bianco from The Sand Project about how the project started and why it has evolved into a multi pathway enterprise-based organization. Marita discusses how the project supports trainees preparing them for employment and independent living using an experiential approach. She also explains the importance of tailored support including family support w...

In this milestone episode, host Debra Caldow celebrates the 200th episode of the podcast by focusing on the importance of sharing stories and solutions that support the futures of children with additional needs. Reflecting on the podcast's journey since 2017, Debra talks about the need for letting go of limiting beliefs and building on existing solutions rather than starting from scratch. She disc...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow discusses the concept of hope. She examines the four types of hope: realistic, utopian, chosen, and transcendent. She explores the role hope plays in motivating action and fostering resilience. Debra also talks about the need to have a more active approach to hope, transforming it from passive wishfulness into a driving force for positive change. Check out our In...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow talks to Laura Wells from Hope North Carolina about the innovative housing model they use that integrates people with and without disabilities. Laura discusses how Hope NC fosters a sense of belonging through their community facilitator role and various community projects. Laura also touches upon the future directions for creating affordable and inclusive housing...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow talks to Ginny Dropkin from Hope North Carolina about the emotional and logistical challenges of ensuring a good life for our children, even after we're no longer around. Ginny explains why this has been a central issue in her life and how she's become involved in various organizations to address the problems. Ginny talks about how she with two other parents foun...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow discusses the importance of developing a positive and growth-oriented mindset for us and our children. She explains the practical steps that can lead to developing a positive mindset, including self-talk, embracing challenges, and surrounding ourselves with supportive influences. Debra also talks about how developing a positive mindset requires time and persisten...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow talks to Katherine Jennick from What's Your Strength about how a positive self-perception can have a genuine impact on young people with additional needs. Katherine offers practical strategies that you can adapt at home, and she argues we need more inclusive interview practices and better career discussions rather than focusing on just traditional academic achiev...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow talks to Katherine Jennick from What's Your Strength about the project she has developed to help young people translate their life experiences into strengths. She discusses how this evolved into packs of cards which are used by both families and professionals. Katherine also talks about why project-based learning is more effective and why everyone has a role to p...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow explores the crucial role of choice in the lives of young people with additional needs. She discusses the barriers that exist, such as low expectations, inadequate funding, and social policies that limit young people's choices. Debra also talks about the importance of family support and practical strategies to foster decision-making skills, supporting the shift f...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow shares conversations she had with students from Brighton Forward. This is the chance to hear first-hand from the young people Brighton Forward works with about the support they receive , what skills they find valuable as well as their individual plans they have for the future. https://brightonforward.co.uk/   Check out our Independent Cooking Made Easy Course - ...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow talks to Laura Vallone from Brighton Forward about how this project provides a nurturing and secure environment for young people who may have struggled elsewhere . She explains how their 3-year program works by focusing both on personal development and work skills . Laura also discusses the need for policy changes and highlights the significance of using the 'lan...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow discusses the social isolation challenges faced by young people with additional needs. Debra explores the barriers that exist, including lack of confidence and lack of social skills, alongside external barriers such as geographic limitations and societal attitudes. She also talks about possible solutions, like the role of paid work and the importance of empowerin...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow continues her conversation with Bob Etzel   from iSocial. Bob explains the different motivators for going on the program as well as the importance of having supportive peers and role models who reflect your experiences. He also talks about how iSocial provides a framework that enables individuals to leverage their unique strengths within a workplace. Bob also dis...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow talks to Bob Etzel about how the iSocial program works, using a structured approach and the role of moderators in fostering confidence and social skills. He details the transformation of iSocial from a research program using avatars to a Zoom-based, real-world community.   Bob also talks about the importance of matching people with common interests to lead to las...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow discusses her experience of supporting her daughter while she was on a supported internship. Debra explains the importance of trusting the internship process and why focusing on creating a supportive home environment provides the support a young person needs. She also talks about the challenge of letting go and learning to respect and trust the young person's gro...

In this episode, host Debra Caldow shares four tips for getting your young person ready for going on a supported internship. Debra talks about the the importance of talking about work early, doing thorough research, building essential skills and attitudes at home, and seeking out work experiences.   Check out our Independent Cooking Made Easy Course https://bit.ly/independentcooking

In this episode, host Debra Caldow talks to Ellie Hedley-Dent about the approach Team Domenica takes in engaging with employers to hire young people with additional needs. She discusses the importance of understanding employer preconceptions, maintaining an open conversation, and sharing other employer stories. Ellie also explains the importance of providing bespoke training and providing ongoing...