T21 Podcast

Join Chloé and Ben for a tour of Upside Down Mercantile! Learn about our products, meet our brand ambassadors, and discover the heart behind one of Down Syndrome Group of the Ozarks’ resources for families and the community. 

This month on the T21 Podcast, we’re hanging out with Gracie Fesler! Gracie, who has Down syndrome, has recently stepped into a brand-new season of life. Living independently, working two jobs, and building a life of her own. In this episode, Gracie gives us a look into what independence means to her, what she’s learning along the way, and what she has to say about this exciting new chapter. If th...

Mike and Mary Jeppsen join us to share about their experience at the NDSC Conference in Orlando, where they presented a session on marriage. They talk about the importance of learning about the resources and opportunities available to individuals with Down syndrome, including the impact of participating in medical studies. Tune in for their perspective, experiences, and encouragement for families...

In this episode, speech-language pathologist Allyson Beary shares how Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) empowers individuals with Down syndrome and other differing abilities to communicate with confidence. We discuss common myths, when to introduce AAC, and simple ways families and communities can support every voice.  Listen now and discover how AAC opens the door to connection, in...

Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Amanda Bowden, mom to Isaiah, as we discuss prenatal testing, media representation, and the value and dignity of every life. Amanda shares her perspective as a mother raising a son with Down syndrome and offers hope and encouragement for families navigating a diagnosis. Check out Episode 13 of the T21 Podcast Welcoming a Newborn with Down Syndrome - Jon an...

In Episode 27 of the T21 Podcast, we sit down with occupational therapist Natalie Clark to talk about the beauty of inclusion, the impact of relationships, and the joy of being part of the Down syndrome community. With nearly 30 years of experience working with children and families, Natalie shares heartfelt stories, practical insight into school-based OT, and why loving and including others can c...

In this episode of the T21 Podcast, we dive into one of the most important and often uncomfortable parenting conversations: how to talk to your kids about disabilities. Using real-life moments and simple, honest language, we explore how to nurture curiosity without shame, teach inclusion in everyday situations, and model the respect we want our kids to show others. Books that we love! I Am a Maste...

Welcome back to the T21 Podcast! 🎙️ Today we’re joined by a family behind Brew21 and Extra Chromosome Coffee Co. who didn’t just open a coffee shop to serve great drinks they opened it to create opportunity and build community. ☕💛In this episode, they talk about the transition from a mobile coffee bar to a brick-and-mortar shop, and tell the story behind why they started. It’s a conversation abo...

Welcome to the T21 Podcast! In this episode, We’re joined by Dr. April Phillips, Director of Bear POWER at Missouri State University a program designed to support students with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they transition beyond graduation. Bear POWER focuses on building real-world skills, confidence, independence, and meaningful community involvement. This conversation is all ab...

In Episode 23 of the T21 Podcast, we’re starting the new year with some exciting changes and a great conversation. We welcome new co-host Ben Ward and sit down with Serah Jeppsen, a young adult with Down syndrome who brings tons of heart, creativity, and personality to everything she does. Serah talks about moving to Springfield, growing up in a big family, her love of photography and art, and wha...

From inspiring family stories to expert insights on education, behavior, health, and future planning, this special year-in-review episode highlights an incredible year of conversations on the T21 Podcast. Celebrating voices from the Down syndrome community and the growth of DSGO, we reflect on meaningful moments, community milestones, and our shared mission to inform, inspire, and connect all in 2...

In this episode of the T21 Podcast, we sit down with close friends Joseph Giordano and Morgan Gudenkauf as they begin an exciting new chapter at Jordan’s Place. Jordan's Place is a fully accessible, community-focused housing development designed to support independence and connection. Joseph and Morgan share the story of their longtime friendship, why they chose to become roommates, what daily lif...

Welcome back to the T21 Podcast! In this special episode, Chloe Jones and Amy Bullard dive into the heart of Down Syndrome Awareness Month, exploring why awareness is just the beginning and why advocacy still matters today. We break down the purpose of this month, the progress that’s been made, and the persistent barriers that still exist for individuals with Down syndrome in education, employment...

In this episode of the T21 Podcast, hosts Chloe Jones and Amy Bullard welcome special guest Jen Welton, Board President of the Down Syndrome Group of the Ozarks and sister to Trent. Jen shares her sibling story, from childhood memories to stepping into a caregiver role. She also offers heartfelt advice for others walking a similar path. Tune in for an honest and inspiring conversation about family...

In Episode 18 of the T21 Podcast, hosts Chloe Jones and Amy Bullard welcome special guest Brittany Stoeklein, a passionate second-grade teacher known for creating an inclusive classroom environment. The episode explores what true inclusion looks like in schools starting with the belief that all children can learn. Brittany shares practical insights on building school-wide inclusive attitudes, effe...

In this episode, hosts Chloe Jones and Amy Bullard sit down with work incentives practitioner Nate Mort to unpack the essentials of benefits planning for individuals with Down syndrome and other disabilities. From understanding SSI to learning about ABLE accounts, Special Needs Trusts, and the importance of the BPQY, Nate shares practical advice for families looking to build financial security and...

Welcome back to the T21 Podcast! In Episode 16, hosts Chloe Jones and Amy Bullard sit down with Katie Adams, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, to dive into the topic of behavior in individuals with Down syndrome. From stubbornness to learned helplessness, Katie shares practical strategies and insights for parents, educators, employers, and anyone who wants to better understand and support indivi...

Welcome to the T21 Podcast! Hosts Chloe Jones and Amy Bullard are joined by special guest Kenlyn Shettlesworth from the University of Missouri Extension to discuss all things nutrition for individuals with Down syndrome. In this episode, they explore strategies for healthy eating, budget-friendly grocery shopping, kitchen safety, physical activity, and promoting independence through routine. Kenly...

In Episode 14 of the T21 Podcast, we sit down with Amber Peck, a dedicated local Special Education teacher, for an insightful conversation about accommodations and modifications within the general education classroom. Amber shares her expertise on how educators can effectively support students with diverse learning needs by following Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). We explore the differe...

In this special podcast episode, we celebrate World Down Syndrome Day by discussing the powerful journey of welcoming a newborn with Down syndrome. We start by celebrating the moment when parents become part of “The Lucky Few,” embracing the blessing of raising a child with Down syndrome. This episode highlights how this journey can be filled with joy, love, and growth, while also exploring the im...

In this episode we explore the topic and importance of support coordination with our guest Jennifer Giordano! Jennifer is the Director of Support Coordination for Webster County. We talk about the importance of advocacy and action steps you can take to support your loved one with Down syndrome. If you are wanting to start an intake to receiving services, you can contact the Springfield or Joplin R...

Meet Rosie (Jon) and his son Tyson! Rosie is a retired firefighter and shares with us how they navigated learning and supporting independence during Rosie's 24-48 hour shifts at work. Watch to see their fun loving relationship and learn their steps in working towards Tyson's independence.

For this episode we got to learn more of the behind the scenes of the holiday season with the non-profit Down Syndrome Group of the Ozarks! Scott and Sarah shared about the events of the season and throughout the year. We got to hear about their fundraising efforts and a recap of this year’s DSGO Santas Workshop! If you would like to learn more about Down Syndrome Group of the Ozarks you can searc...

Join Amy Bullard and Chloe Jones as they explore what it’s like to be a direct support professional for families. Providing support to an individual with disabilities and how it can be a positive life changing experience. To view your Regional Office information visit https://dmh.mo.gov/dev-disabilities/r... For topics you’d like to know more about you can email them to info@dsgo.life

Meet Cindy Lyons. She plays a vital role of Down Syndrome Group of the Ozarks and we are so thankful to have her on the T21 Podcast. Cindy is often one of the first people a new family meets after receiving a Down syndrome diagnosis. Not only does she encourage them by sharing her own story but she walks a long side them and is a consistent presence for many families. Listen to EP. 8 to learn more...