In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, we talk about inclusion, IDD employment, and disability advocacy as we sit down with Kelly Rockwell, a passionate parent and community leader. She shares how her journey with her daughter who has Down syndrome inspired her to use creativity and ingenuity to build a coffee shop that hires people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Kelly explains how this idea grew into a social enterprise that brings real opportunity and dignity to adults with IDD.

Her story shows the power of inclusion, family love, and community support. It is a hopeful look at what can happen when parents and advocates work to build a better future for people with disabilities.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS | More

Join us on this episode of Let’s Plant Houses as we sit down with Star, an amazing parent who shares her deeply personal journey of navigating a special needs diagnosis and the pursuit of finding the right special education environment for her daughter. Through an honest conversation about her daughter’s needs, Star’s advocacy, special education and IEPs, she illuminates the challenges faced, the pivotal moments of discovery, and the transformative power of the right educational placement place for her child.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS | More

Join us on this episode of Let’s Plant Houses as we sit down with Jenni, an extraordinary parent who shares the inspiring story of their autistic son’s employment journey in securing a job. Through candid and uplifting conversation, her family exemplifies the powerful impact of perseverance.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS | More

Join us on this episode of Let’s Plant Houses as we sit down with Tom, a remarkable parent who shares his family’s journey of raising his son with special needs. Listen in as our guest opens up about the strength, resilience, and unwavering love that has shaped their family’s story. He also offers invaluable advice for other parents navigating similar paths.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS | More

In this first episode of Let’s Plant Houses, my husband Bill and I talk about autism, autism parenting, and the mental health crises our daughter Nicola faced. These challenges with meltdowns, crisis care, IDD support, and special needs housing pushed us deep into the healthcare system and the mental health system. We share how we tried to help Nicola while feeling like we were drowning in the stress and confusion of complex care.

We also talk about the hardest crisis we have ever faced with Nicola, who has profound autism and bipolar disorder. Our hope is that our story brings comfort, guidance, and support to anyone caring for a child with complex needs. You are not alone, and there is always a path forward.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS | More