Shows
Challenges and choices a special-needs perspectiveEpisode one: Exploring Orlando, Florida with DIANE BenitezFollow Joey as he sits down with his sister, DIANE Benitez, to explore the city of Orlando, Florida. In this episode, DIANE helps Joey learn his way around the city — from discovering must-try restaurants to learning about helpful programs and resources for people with special needs. Together, they share stories, local tips, and the meaningful ways Orlando supports inclusion, family life, and community connection.
Whether you’re visiting or living in Orlando, this episode highlights places that are truly worth it!
Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to support Joey’s journey and amplify the voices in the spec...
2025-07-0710 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspectiveAnn Foyt interview Friends dance Part 1In this episode of "Challenges and Choices: A Special-Needs Perspective," hosts Anne Ford and Joey dive into an inspiring conversation about the Frend Dance Program, a unique initiative designed to support individuals with Down syndrome. The episode highlights the incredible opportunities for personal growth, creativity, and community building provided by this program.
Anne Ford shares her heartfelt journey in advocating for individuals with Down syndrome, inspired by her personal experiences. She discusses the transformative power of dance as a medium for expression and inclusion, emphasizing how it has become a vital tool for building confidence and social connections among participants.
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2024-05-2216 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspectiveSallie Douglas Dennison interview teacher appreciation weekWhen I started volunteering as an adult in the library at my old elementary school , I found out a few of my teachers were still here. Mrs. Dixon, and Mrs. Dennison both recognized me almost 20 years after I was in the class. Mrs Dixon remembered my name first and then Mrs. Dennison tried to put a face to the name. Once she made the connection she realized my picture was still in her classroom.
Podcast Episode Interview
Title: Challenges and Choices: A Special-Needs Perspective
Theme: Teacher Appreciation Week Special
Host: Joey
Guest: Mrs. Sally Douglas Dennison
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Introduction:
Welcome to our speci...
2024-05-0611 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspectiveCounting our BlessingsThanksgiving is a holiday, when people gather with their families and friends and count their blessings, and I did just that. Our family came in from New York and we had a great time. Our final day together was spent at Universal Orlando and that is where my podcast is coming from. I would like to thank my sister, brother-in law, mother and our cousins for being my blessings.
2023-11-2905 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspectiveSHARING THE WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER WITH THE SPECIAL NEEDS COMMUNITYLUMUS - “I solemnly swear I am up to no good!”Podcast Episode Summary: Exploring The Wizarding World of Harry Potter with Tressa
In this magical episode of “Challenges and Choices: A Special-Needs Perspective,” host Joey dives into the enchanting universe of "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter." Joining Joey is his friend and fellow Gryffindor, Tressa. Together, they share their mutual passion for the Harry Potter series, recounting their adventures and experiences from various Harry Potter locales and Universal Studios.
Tressa and Joey discuss their favorite books and movies from the series, while also reminiscing about the rides and attracti...
2023-11-1632 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspectiveThe Knights of Columbus of Light of Christ ChurchPodcast Episode Summary: Knights of Columbus Charity Car Show
In today's episode of "Challenges and Choices: A Special-Needs Perspective," host Joey collaborates with the Knights of Columbus organization in Clearwater at Light of Christ Church. This dedicated volunteer group discusses their upcoming charity event—a car show at St. Catherine of Siena Church on Saturday, November 4, 2023, from 10:00 AM to 2:30 PM.
The car show is a thrilling competition featuring 150 cars on display, drawing car enthusiasts and community members alike for a day filled with excitement and camaraderie. Importantly, the proceeds from the event will benefit Kimberly Home, a charitable organization supporting mo...
2023-11-0314 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspectiveHogwarts LegacyHogwarts Legacy is an immersive game set in the Wizarding World where players embark on a journey to uncover ancient magic. The storyline follows a boy sorted into Slytherin who befriends a visually impaired descendant of Salazar Slytherin, navigating the challenges of dark magic aspirations by characters like Sebastian Salo. The game's narrative enriches the lore of Hogwarts, founded by powerful witches and wizards, through engaging and diverse characters such as Natsai Onai, Zenobia Noke, and Poppy Sweeting. Sebastian Salo, one of the key characters, harbors a fascination with dark magic, aiming to become a formidable wizard, which instills fear...
2023-09-041h 59Challenges and choices a special-needs perspectiveVideo game collectionWhen I was a little kid, my grandpa and I would play on the computer. We would play a game called Sesame Street, and then Harry Potter games started to make their way onto the computer. Eventually, I got myself an Xbox for Christmas, which marked the beginning of my video game collection journey.
My collection began to grow as I added a Game Boy Advance, followed by a PlayStation 2. Afterward, I got a portable PlayStation (PSP) and then a Nintendo Wii. The excitement of gaming led me to purchase an Xbox 360 bundle, and then an Xbox One. My enthusiasm...
2023-08-2213 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspectiveEvan Johnson’s interviewPodcast Episode Summary: Interview with Evan Johnson on the Challenger Little League and Disney World History
Join host Joey in this episode of "Challenges and Choices: A Special-Needs Perspective" as he sits down with Evan Johnson for an exciting and insightful conversation. Evan will walk us through the incredible journey of the Challenger Little League program, sharing stories that highlight the positive impact this initiative has had on individuals with special needs. The program provides opportunities for personal growth and community involvement through the love of baseball.
In addition to exploring the Challenger Little League, Evan and Joey take us...
2023-06-2619 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspectiveJohn Cook’s interview about Clearwater Challenger Little LeaguePodcast Episode Summary: Challenges and Choices: A Special-Needs Perspective with John Cook
In this insightful episode of “Challenges and Choices: A Special-Needs Perspective,” host Joey sits down with John Cook, a dedicated coach of the Clearwater Challenger Little League. John shares his heartfelt journey and the choices he made while coaching a special-needs baseball league.
John discusses his personal experiences and the unique challenges he encountered while coaching the Challenger Little League, a league designed for children with special needs. His daughter, Victoria, has been a passionate participant since the age of six, inspiring John to create a nurturing environment for...
2022-05-3010 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspectiveMother’s DayMother's Day is a special day celebrated to honor mothers and motherhood. In the United States, it is observed on the second Sunday in May, where children express their gratitude and love for their mothers through gifts and special gestures. In Poland, Mother's Day is a cherished occasion where children, especially those in schools and daycares, create laurki for their mothers. Laurki are decorative papers adorned with flowers and heartfelt personal messages, showing appreciation and affection. This tradition highlights the universal nature of Mother's Day as a time to recognize the invaluable role of mothers in our lives.
2022-05-2613 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspective9 Osmar SoccerHere's the story of how Cady Grootwassink and I became friends at a young age. We both started getting into soccer when we discovered there was a soccer program up by Countryside. Someone mentioned there was also a soccer program in Oldsmar, and that's where I first met Cady. Cady was 4 years old at the time, and we quickly became friends. Over the years, our friendship grew stronger as we continued to play soccer and support each other both on and off the field. Our shared passion for the sport and the camaraderie we found in the team solidified a...
2022-04-0806 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspective8 2005 morning star memoriesDuring my tenure at Morning Star School, I had the privilege of forming new friendships and acquaintances with my classmates. Mrs. Castaneda, our esteemed educator, captivated us with readings of the Harry Potter literary series, creating an unforgettable and enriching experience. Additionally, we dedicated Wednesdays to attending Sacred Heart Church, while I also actively participated in the Special Olympics.
2022-04-0712 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspective7 2007 Clearwater Challenger Little League
Here’s the story of how I became part of Clearwater Challenger Little League. It all started when I was looking for a community activity to involve myself in. I stumbled upon the Clearwater Challenger Little League and was immediately intrigued by their mission and the energy surrounding the games.
The league focuses on providing a platform for children and families to enjoy baseball in a fun and inclusive environment. I decided to attend one of their meetings and was welcomed warmly by the members, who were passionate about the sport and the inclusive atmosphere they had created.
I quickly fo...
2022-04-0406 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspective6 Caitlin Granby’s interviewCaitlin Granby attended Morning Star School before moving on to Northeast High. At the age of four, she was diagnosed with autism. In her interview, Caitlin shared experiences from her educational journey and how her early diagnosis has shaped her life.
2022-04-0409 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspective5 2020COVID-19Podcast Episode Summary: Challenges and Choices During the COVID-19 Pandemic
In this thoughtful episode of "Challenges and Choices: A Special-Needs Perspective," host Joey reflects on the unprecedented challenges and significant changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The episode delves into the personal and collective experiences of adjusting to a new normal, highlighting how these changes affected the special-needs community.
Joey shares insights on how the pandemic introduced a brand-new Challenger baseball season, providing an opportunity for growth and adaptation. The year also marked the beginning of a new school term, which, like many other routines, was abruptly disrupted...
2022-04-0408 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspective4 Kevin Pettet Challenger Little League coachPodcast Episode Summary: Challenges and Choices: A Special-Needs Perspective with Kevin Pettet
In this engaging episode of “Challenges and Choices: A Special-Needs Perspective,” host Joey interviews Kevin Pettet, a passionate coach for the Challenger Little League, where he coaches both baseball and basketball teams. Kevin shares his journey and experiences raising his son, Kyle, who has autism and ADHD.
Kevin discusses the joys and challenges of raising a son with special needs, highlighting the positive impact sports have had on Kyle's development. Kyle's involvement in both Challenger Baseball and Basketball has been instrumental in fostering his confidence, social skills, and over...
2022-04-0313 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspective3 Countryside high school storyMy favorite subjects of countryside high school was PE CBI mr. crabs Mr. Titus mr. Zimmerman Instagram https://www.instagram.com/reel/Ccv0sltskGU/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= Facebook Challenges and Choices special needs perspective https://www.facebook.com/Challenges-and-Choices-a-special-needs-perspective-podcast-103325229025474/ YouTube channel Challenges and Choices hey special-needs perspective https://youtu.be/426NwIkQmLI
2022-04-0305 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspective2 Childhood storiesIn this heartwarming episode of "Challenges and Choices: A Special-Needs Perspective," host Joey takes a nostalgic journey back to his childhood, sharing personal stories and experiences that shaped him. Growing up in an era filled with beloved children's programs and toys, Joey reflects on how these influences impacted his early years and his perspective today.
Joey fondly remembers spending countless hours watching classics such as "Barney," "Sesame Street," and "Tots TV." These shows not only provided entertainment but also instilled values of friendship, kindness, and creativity. He reminisces about the characters and episodes that left a lasting impression on him...
2022-04-0207 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspective1 Podcast opening introductionsPodcast Episode: Challenges and Choices - A Special-Needs Perspective with Joey
In this engaging episode of "Challenges and Choices: A Special-Needs Perspective," host Joey delves into various scenarios where individuals face challenges and make pivotal choices. This episode highlights the importance of decision-making within the special-needs community, providing insights and stories that resonate with many.
Segment 1: Facing Challenges and Making the Right Choices in School
Joey begins by exploring the educational landscape for students with special needs, discussing the unique challenges they encounter. He talks about the importance of creating inclusive classrooms that cater to diverse learning styles and abilities...
2022-04-0208 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspectivepodcast trailerPodcast Episode Trailer: Challenges and Choices - A Special-Needs Perspective
Join host Joey in “Challenges and Choices: A Special-Needs Perspective” as he delves into the unique experiences and inspiring stories of individuals with special needs. This series aims to shed light on the challenges faced by those who are visually impaired, have Down syndrome, or are on the autism spectrum, while highlighting the remarkable choices and paths they forge.
In our latest episode, Joey faces the challenges and celebrates the choices that define the lives of those in the special-needs community. Through profound conversations, Joey explores the resilience and creativity inhe...
2022-04-0202 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspectiveEpisode 2: Interviews with Diane and Emma who both are involved in the special needs community.Diane is Joey's sister. Hear her work background and her involvement in special needs communities.
Emma works as a consultant with CDC plus. Learn what the CDC Plus offers people with special needs and how family and friends could help out their loved ones with companion services.
https://m.facebook.com/Joey-and-Sarah-ChallengesChoices-Podcast-10344937
2021-07-2821 minChallenges and choices a special-needs perspectiveA Special Journey in our lives with Special Needs by Joey and SarahA Special Journey about our lives with Special Needs by Joey and Sarah
Telling the story of their podcast journey and
their special need Relationships. people who are special who need each other
2021-05-3113 min2021-04-1807 min