Jennifer Stanford Vogt is an established professional in the human services sector, with a career deeply influenced by serendipity and her belief in divine intervention. A graduate of Keuka College in 2008, Jennifer began her journey as a job readiness and GED instructor, eventually transitioning into the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Her roles have included direct support professional (DSP) and staff development trainer, and her insights are further informed by her personal experience as a parent of a child with multiple diagnoses, including autism and epilepsy. Currently, Jennifer serves as the Associate Director of Education and Training at eVero Corporation, leading teams in creating impactful learning programs and fostering innovation in the sector.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of DSP Talk, host Asheley Blaise welcomes Jennifer Stanford Vogt, whose path through the realms of human service and parenthood brings an invaluable perspective on the interplay between direct support professionals (DSPs) and families. Jennifer shares how her dual experiences as both a parent and a DSP have shaped her understanding of these roles as a partnership built on empathy and effective communication. Her narrative underscores the mutual effort needed for individuals with disabilities to flourish, spotlighting how these interactions can foster personal growth, skill development, and emotional well-being.

Jennifer dismantles common misconceptions about DSPs, emphasizing the skills, critical thinking, and emotional resilience required in their role. Her insights pave the way for families and DSPs to foster mutual respect and build healthy partnerships. By acknowledging the emotions and needs of both sides, Jennifer suggests concrete ways to strengthen these relationships, like regular check-ins, active listening, and transparent communication. Overall, the episode provides a compelling view into the complexities of caregiving, offering a call to action for both families and professionals to work cohesively towards enriching the lives of those they support.

Key Takeaways:

• Beyond 'Babysitting': The role of DSPs is often misunderstood; it involves advocacy, problem-solving, and much more than supervision.
• Building Trust and Respect: Regular communication and small gestures of acknowledgment help to build trust between families and DSPs.
• The Human Aspect: Acknowledging the emotional journey of both DSPs and families leads to better support structures and cooperation.
• Partnership over Isolation: Success relies on treating the family-DSP relationship as a collaborative effort instead of two opposing sides.

Notable Quotes:

• "It truly takes a real partnership, some empathy, and communication to make it happen."
• "DSPs are constantly problem-solving, teaching, advocating, and adapting in the moment."
• "At the end of the day, we're all just really here for the same reason: to help the person that we're both engaged with grow, develop, and thrive."
• "Assume always that there are good intentions and really listen to each other."

Resources:

• eVero Corporation

For a deeper dive into this enlightening discussion, listen to the full episode. Stay tuned for more insightful content on DSP Talk, where we continue to explore stories and strategies that enhance the lives of those working in human services.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael Alcorn is a dedicated student at Mohawk Community College, where he excels in the field of small business studies, having made the principal’s list three times and being an esteemed member of the National Honor Society. Michael is also known for his cheerful demeanor and commitment at Taco Bell, where he is training to become a manager. Despite overcoming learning disabilities, Michael is pursuing his dream to open his own restaurant, the Acorn Tree, highlighting his perseverance and passion for entrepreneurship.

Episode Summary:

Join host Asheley Blaise on this inspiring episode of DSP Talk, where she engages with Michael Alcorn, a student at Mohawk Community College and an aspiring entrepreneur currently working at Taco Bell. Michael shares his journey of overcoming learning disabilities and the pivotal role employment specialists played in helping him find and keep meaningful employment. Discover the personal challenges he faced and how he turned them into opportunities to grow, both in education and in his job.

In this enlightening conversation, Asheley and Michael delve into the significance of job coaches in the IDD field, contrasting prior unsupportive experiences with the transformative impact of dedicated employment specialists. Michael openly discusses the transitional journey from working at a sheltered workshop to thriving in a dynamic work environment, training to become a manager. As Michael approaches the completion of his studies, he aims to acquire a bachelor’s degree and eventually open his restaurant, demonstrating determination fueled by supportive resources.

Key Takeaways:

• Employment specialists play a vital role in aiding individuals with disabilities to secure and maintain fulfilling jobs.
• Finding the "right" employment specialist can be crucial to workplace success and personal growth.
• Experience in the fast-paced environment of Taco Bell has equipped Michael with skills and confidence for his future entrepreneurial endeavors.
• Education and patience have been key to Michael's journey towards managerial roles and the dream of owning a restaurant.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Having the right employment specialist can help you succeed in your job. Not just any employment specialist, but the right one." - Michael Alcorn
2. "The two employment specialists that I had understood me, knew that I needed the experience to help open my own restaurant." - Michael Alcorn

Tune in to this episode to gain an understanding of the intricacies of support systems that empower individuals with disabilities to achieve their career goals. Stay connected with DSP Talk for more inspiring stories and insights.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Latima Anderson Mason is an inspiring advocate and a dedicated mother to her daughter who has a disability. As her daughter transitions into adulthood, Latima has taken an active role in navigating the complexities of aging out of support services and exploring guardianship options. Her personal experiences have fueled her passion for advocacy, guiding other families through similar challenges with empathy and insight. Latima is currently engaging in workshops and legal processes to ensure her daughter's rights and independence are upheld as she enters this new life stage.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of DSP Talk, host Asheley Blaise engages in a poignant conversation with Latima Anderson Mason, a devoted mother and advocate for her daughter with disabilities. As Anika approaches adulthood, Latima shares the intricacies of the aging-out process, especially focusing on the transition from high school to adult services at the age of 21. By sharing her story, Latima helps to shed light on the critical path of securing guardianship while balancing her daughter’s rights and independence—offering listeners a glimpse into the challenges and victories experienced by families navigating a similar journey.

Latima Anderson Mason provides insight into the emotional and practical challenges of securing guardianship for her daughter, Anika, who is aging out of services. The discussion highlights essential topics such as the significance of understanding legal processes and maintaining the child's voice in critical decisions. Key resources such as AHRC New York workshops are mentioned, offering needed support to families. The episode concludes with Latima's personal hopes for a future where individuals with disabilities are seen and heard beyond their limitations. This episode is a must-listen for families and advocates in the disability community, providing relatable and beneficial guidance.

Key Takeaways:

• Aging Out Process: Children with disabilities are entitled to services through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) until they turn 21 (in NY, other States it can be up to 22).
• Guardianship: is a court process that allows a parent or caregiver to make legal, medical, or financial decisions for an adult child who is unable to make such decisions independently. (Source Planning for Children with Disabilities Aging Out of the School System - , May 01, 2025)
• Effective Communication: Continuously explaining processes and decisions to a child with disabilities helps in understanding and decision-making.
• Alternatives to Guardianship: Supported decision-making (SDM) is a practice by which people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) are able to make their own decisions with the support of trusted persons in their lives and retain all their legal and civil rights. (Source: What is Supported Decision-Making? – SDMNY)

Resources:

• AHRC New York: Guardianship Services
• OPWDD Transition Services Recorded Webinar May 9, 2024

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michelle Chu is a seasoned program and community builder with over a decade of dedication towards fostering inclusion and connecting people to essential resources. Currently, she works in the Community Connections department at Job Path, where her efforts are directed towards supporting adults with autism and other disabilities. Michelle plays an integral role in the Guac Committee, which stands for Growth, Unity, Accessibility, and Community, working tirelessly to create an inclusive workplace at Job Path. With a unique background in improvisational theater and extensive experience in tech and design operations, Michelle brings innovative approaches to her social work, making people feel understood and encouraging community growth.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of DSP Talk, host Asheley Blaise speaks with Michelle Chu, an extraordinary program builder dedicated to supporting adults with autism and other disabilities at Job Path. Michelle delves into her role as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and shares her unique perspective, incorporating her background in improvisational theater into her social work. The conversation explores Michelle’s innovative approaches to community building and the impact of fostering inclusivity in workplaces, setting the tone for a thought-provoking discussion on the challenges and rewards of being a DSP.

Michelle insights reveal the emotional depth and commitment required in the DSP role, describing it as more than just a job, but a vocation filled with meaningful connections and personal growth. The episode uncovers both the rewarding experiences and the challenges faced by DSPs, highlighting Michelle's creative solutions, such as adapting games like Uno to assist participants in expressing their emotions. Throughout the podcast, valuable keywords such as "fostering inclusion," "creative expression," "emotional connection," and "community growth" echo the essence of Michelle's impactful work. Her ability to transform daily interactions into profound experiences underpins the core theme of the episode, focusing strongly on empowerment and self-direction within the communities she supports.

Key Takeaways:

• The role of a Direct Support Professional (DSP) is about empowering people to achieve personal goals.
• Michelle Chu leverages her improvisational theater background to create innovative solutions that facilitate emotional expression for those with disabilities.
• Building strong support systems and maintaining open communication with team members and families are vital for successfully overcoming challenges in the DSP role.
• Recognizing and celebrating small wins can significantly affirm the importance and impact of a DSP's work, offering deep professional satisfaction.
• Emotional resilience, combined with creativity, can transform everyday interactions into meaningful growth opportunities for individuals and communities.

Notable Quotes:

1. "I think for me, definitely one of the most rewarding, because who would have thought that you could take a deck of Uno and turn it into, like, a vehicle for helping somebody better communicate how they feel emotionally?"
2. "I really think that the participants we serve are capable of so much more than they're given credit for."
3. "Sometimes it's just like a gentle nudge to do something that we don't know is a possibility that makes it happen."
4. "At the end of the day, what I most care about is making sure my team felt supported."
5. "I think the heart of being a DSP is really empowering them to feel like they can do it."

Resources:

• JobPath : Home - Job Path NYC

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Geneira Poulis is a seasoned Behavior Intervention Specialist (BIS) with over 14 years of experience in the field of developmental disabilities. She has served in various pivotal roles, ranging from Assistant Program Director to Program Director, and is now dedicated to fostering person-centered, equitable behavior support. Geneira 's approach is deeply informed by her firsthand experiences with systemic injustice. Holding a Master’s of Social Work from Stony Brook University, she uniquely blends clinical expertise with a strong commitment to social justice, aiming to empower both the individuals served and the professionals who support them.

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode of DSP Talk, host Asheley Blaise engages in a rich dialogue with Geneira Poulis, a respected Behavior Intervention Specialist (BIS), to explore the critical role that Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) play in the development and execution of behavior intervention plans. Geneira emphasizes the importance of including DSPs in the creation process, describing them as the 'backbone' of behavior support plans, and illustrating how their firsthand experiences, insights, and daily interactions with individuals can significantly enhance the efficacy and relevance of these plans.

Geneira Poulis provides an innovative perspective on empowering DSPs through collaboration and inclusion in the planning process. By underscoring the importance of fostering environments where DSPs can actively contribute, ask questions, and feel valued, Geneira outlines strategies to bridge the gap between clinical teams and direct support staff. This approach not only improves behavioral outcomes but also nurtures professional growth and satisfaction among DSPs. This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in the field of developmental disabilities, offering practical advice and key strategies for improving team collaboration and client care.

Key Takeaways:

• DSPs are the "backbone" of behavior support plans, providing crucial insights from their close work with individuals.
• Collaboration between DSPs and clinicians is essential for crafting effective, real-world interventions that cater to individuals’ specific needs.
• Empowering DSPs through dialogue and understanding the why behind behavior plans enhances their ability to implement these plans effectively.
• The inclusion of DSP experiences and observations in behavioral planning fosters a sense of pride and ownership, leading to better adherence and outcomes.

Notable Quotes from Geneira Poulis:

• " I often feel like they're [DSPs] the writers and the behavior intervention specialists are the editors.."
• "An observation gives us a snapshot, but the DSP gives us the whole picture. They're able to paint everything they see."
• "When we include them in creating the plan, it gives them a certain kind of pride behind the plan."
• "A strong, trusting relationship between the DSP and the people that they're supporting always gives positive behavior outcomes."
• "Make collaboration a built-in part of your system and not an afterthought."

Discover more about creating effective behavior support strategies and empowering those on the front lines by tuning in to the full episode. Stay engaged for more enlightening content from DSP Talk, where we continue to explore pivotal topics in the developmental disabilities field.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jonathan Meagher-Zayas is the founder and chief strategist of Equity Warrior Strategies LLC, a consulting firm dedicated to advancing equity and social justice within the nonprofit and social impact sectors. With over 14 years of experience, Jonathan specializes in capacity building, leadership development, community engagement, and DEI strategy. He is a queer Latinx nonprofit leader, a social work adjunct professor, a certified fundraiser, a certified diversity professional, and a doctoral candidate focused on critical pedagogy in nonprofit leadership.

Episode Summary:

Join Asheley Blaise as she welcomes Jonathan Meagher-Zayas, a prominent leader in advocating for equity and inclusion in nonprofits. This episode delves into the pervasive issue of ableism in workplaces, particularly for individuals with developmental disabilities, and explores strategies for creating inclusive environments. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of recognizing inherent biases, co-creating solutions, and shifting organizational culture to promote genuine belonging.

Throughout the episode, Jonathan shares valuable insights into the common misconceptions that employers and the public have about people with developmental disabilities, including assumptions about competency and the notion that accommodations are costly. He advocates for the power of language and the role it plays in either reinforcing or dismantling stigma. With educational examples from organizations like AHRC Nassau, Jonathan illustrates how effective advocacy and inclusion efforts can transform communities and workplaces. The conversation also highlights the continuous journey of self-improvement and actionable steps that allies can take to combat ableism.

Key Takeaways:

• Cultural Transformation: True inclusion transcends policy changes and is deeply rooted in shifting organizational culture.
• Co-Creation and Leadership: Involving people with disabilities in decision-making processes is crucial to developing impactful strategies against ableism.
• Language and Representation: The ways we communicate and represent individuals can either reinforce stigma or foster belonging.
• Continuous Learning: Addressing ableism requires an ongoing commitment to education and unlearning of societal biases.

Notable Quotes:

• "If employers really want to center people with disabilities, they need to co-create solutions together."
• "Belonging is a human need…language helps us connect, understand, and create that belonging."
• "Giving grace is going soft on the person but hard on the problem."
• "If you are most impacted by ableism in the workplace, you have the most expertise and perspective to share, how to better address it."

Resources:

• Equity Warrior Strategies LLC
• AHRC Nassau NYS Community of Practice on DEI

Encouraging you to dive into this insightful episode, it's clear there's much to learn and reflect upon when it comes to inclusion and equity. Stay tuned for more discussions on DSP Talk as we continue to explore ways to better our communities and workplaces.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Sarah Gonzalez Noveiri is a prominent Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at AHRC Nassau, serving since 2022. With a global perspective, they excel in orchestrating evidence-based transformations within organizations to cultivate healthier and more inclusive work cultures. Known as an interdisciplinary scholar and cultural researcher, Dr. Gonzalez Noveiri's work revolves around unraveling how identity, power, and culture influence daily life and professional environments. Their innovative approach seamlessly combines academic research with actionable strategies to advance equity, belonging, and justice.

Episode Summary:

Welcome to this enlightening episode of DSP Talk. Today, host Asheley Blaise invites Dr. Sarah Gonzalez Noveiri to explore the nuanced intersection of sexuality, gender identity, and developmental disabilities within provider supported environments. Dr. Gonzalez Noveiri shares valuable insights into how these spaces can either suppress or support the expressions of LGBTQIA identities. The conversation highlights the systemic tendency to assume straight, cisgender norms and underscores the significance of comprehensive sexuality education, LGBTQIA training, and community and peer connections.

This episode dives into actionable strategies for direct support professionals, clinicians, and family members to create affirming spaces. Dr. Gonzalez Noveiri emphasizes the role of self-reflection to recognize and combat personal biases, as well as the necessity of embracing a trauma-informed approach to support those with developmental disabilities. Important interventions are discussed, such as employing visual aids, enhancing peer connections, and collaborating with external LGBTQIA organizations. By centering on autonomy and challenging prevailing biases, the discussion seeks to honor the full humanity of individuals with developmental disabilities while equipping caregivers and support professionals to better support their journeys.

Key Takeaways:

• Creating LGBTQIA affirming environments in support settings requires challenging systemic assumptions and championing person-centered planning.
• Direct support professionals should practice inclusive language, foster an environment that visually represents diversity, and create opportunities that provide space for self-discovery and self-expression.
• Self-reflection and honest acknowledgment of biases are crucial for caregivers and professionals to avoid imposing personal discomfort onto those they support.
• Understanding trauma histories and integrating trauma-informed approaches are fundamental to facilitating healthy personal exploration and relationships.
• Collaborating with LGBTQIA organizations and fostering peer-led education can fundamentally empower individuals with developmental disabilities.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Exploring your identity is a fundamental human right." – Dr. Sarah Gonzalez
2. "Limited communication should not limit the exploration of identity." – Dr. Sarah Gonzalez
3. "Being honest with ourselves about biases allows us to better support individuals authentically." – Asheley Blaise
4. "Building peer connections and partnerships is key to shifting support from protection to empowerment." – Dr. Sarah Gonzalez

Resources:

• AHRC Nassau
• The LGBTQ Community Center, New York State

This 2-part interview is packed with thoughtful insights and practical strategies for anyone engaged in the support of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Sarah Gonzalez Noveiri is a prominent Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at AHRC Nassau, serving since 2022. With a global perspective, they excel in orchestrating evidence-based transformations within organizations to cultivate healthier and more inclusive work cultures. Known as an interdisciplinary scholar and cultural researcher, Dr. Gonzalez Noveiri's work revolves around unraveling how identity, power, and culture influence daily life and professional environments. Their innovative approach seamlessly combines academic research with actionable strategies to advance equity, belonging, and justice.

Welcome to this enlightening episode of DSP Talk. Today, host Asheley Blaise invites Dr. Sarah Gonzalez Noveiri to explore the nuanced intersection of sexuality, gender identity, and developmental disabilities within provider supported environments. Dr. Gonzalez Noveiri shares valuable insights into how these spaces can either suppress or support the expressions of LGBTQIA identities. The conversation highlights the systemic tendency to assume straight, cisgender norms and underscores the significance of comprehensive sexuality education, LGBTQIA training, and community and peer connections.

This episode dives into actionable strategies for direct support professionals, clinicians, and family members to create affirming spaces. Dr. Gonzalez Noveiri emphasizes the role of self-reflection to recognize and combat personal biases, as well as the necessity of embracing a trauma-informed approach to support those with developmental disabilities. Important interventions are discussed, such as employing visual aids, enhancing peer connections, and collaborating with external LGBTQIA organizations. By centering on autonomy and challenging prevailing biases, the discussion seeks to honor the full humanity of individuals with developmental disabilities while equipping caregivers and support professionals to better support their journeys.

Key Takeaways:

• Creating LGBTQIA affirming environments in support settings requires challenging systemic assumptions and championing person-centered planning.
• Direct support professionals should practice inclusive language, foster an environment that visually represents diversity, and create opportunities that provide space for self-discovery and self-expression.
• Self-reflection and honest acknowledgment of biases are crucial for caregivers and professionals to avoid imposing personal discomfort onto those they support.
• Understanding trauma histories and integrating trauma-informed approaches are fundamental to facilitating healthy personal exploration and relationships.
• Collaborating with LGBTQIA organizations and fostering peer-led education can fundamentally empower individuals with developmental disabilities.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Exploring your identity is a fundamental human right." – Dr. Sarah Gonzalez
2. "Limited communication should not limit the exploration of identity." – Dr. Sarah Gonzalez
3. "Being honest with ourselves about biases allows us to better support individuals authentically." – Asheley Blaise
4. "Building peer connections and partnerships is key to shifting support from protection to empowerment." – Dr. Sarah Gonzalez

Resources:

• AHRC Nassau
• The LGBTQ Community Center, New York State

This 2-part interview is packed with thoughtful insights and practical strategies for anyone engaged in the support of individuals with developmental disabilities. For a deep dive into these transformative discussions, listen to the full episode.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.