Austin sits down for a wide-ranging conversation with Ray Horton, Executive Director of Brickways in Traverse City, Michigan, along with Brady, a Grand Traverse Industries team member and Brickways resident.

Brady shares what independent living means to him and why Brickways has made such a meaningful impact on his life. Ray reflects on the history of Brickways, his journey to becoming Executive Director, and the deeper purpose behind the organization’s mission.

Together, they explore how Brickways is creating opportunities, building independence, and changing lives in the community.

On this episode of The Way I See It , we sit down with Kristi Cole to talk about Leading with Heart in Adult Foster Care.

Kristi is a Level 3 Direct Support Professional and a certified Front Line Supervisor through the National Association of Direct Support Professionals (NADSP). She has spent many years supporting adults with disabilities in both home and employment environments. Today, she serves as a Program Manager at GTI, bringing both experience and compassion to her leadership.

In this conversation, Kristi shares:
• What an Adult Foster Care (AFC) home really is
• The day-to-day responsibilities of staff working in AFC homes
• Her favorite parts of supporting individuals in residential settings
• The real challenges that come with the work
• How she has responded to loneliness or anxiety among residents
• Why AFC homes matter — and what they mean to the broader community

This episode highlights the heart behind the work and the importance of building belonging, dignity, and stability for adults with disabilities.

If you’ve ever wondered what happens inside an AFC home — and why it matters — this conversation offers an honest and inspiring look.

Austin sits down with Professor Tom Gordon of Memory Bright and History with Papa G YouTube channel to explore how perceptual learning can help chart a path back to joy. Tom’s openness and thoughtful insights offer fresh perspectives on the importance of both personal and world history. It’s a thrilling conclusion to Season 2 of The Way I See It podcast!