Shows
The Post Secondary Transition Podcast074. MD Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA)_Full DiscussionSend us a textHosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) have gone back and combined two previous discussions about Maryland's Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) and, at the same time, cleaned up the audio a bit. We emphasize the importance of completing a DDA application by age 14, including necessary documentation. We cover how the application process involves assessment and determining the young adult's support needs. We work to explain the difference between entitlement and eligibility, the various waivers (Community Pathways, Community Supports), and the importance of a person-centered plan. We also highlight the role of the Coordinator of...2025-04-2839 minThe Post Secondary Transition Podcast073. DDA Eligibility Categories Fine PrintSend us a textHosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) discuss the eligibility categories for Developmental Disabilities (DD) agencies and what that means for families. They talk about the distinction between "Future Needs" and "Current Request" levels. They cover the "Supports Only" designation, and how that can require additional documentation. Additionally, they also touch on "Crisis Prevention" and "Crisis Resolution" for urgent needs, highlighting the importance of gathering comprehensive documentation to support these requests. Join the conversation!Episode Keywords:DD services, Developmental Disabilities Administration, eligibility, future needs, current request, choice letter, coordinator, supports only, c...2025-04-2116 minThe Post Secondary Transition Podcast072. Building Futures: Business's For All FairSend us a textTypically, hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) discuss aspects of the transition process. However, this week Patrick is on his own to discuss a local business fair organized by Meghan and co-worker Erin Bourque (also a Transition Coordinator). The business fair highlighted businesses that support individuals with disabilities and emphasized the importance of visibility and opportunity for people with disabilities. Join the conversation!Episode Keywords:disability community, inclusive world, local businesses, special needs, employment opportunities, role models, micro-businesses, visibility, career paths, support systems, family involvementLinks:Humanium...2025-04-0710 minThe Post Secondary Transition PodcastPodshare: Disability Daily Podcast - Ray Curzwell & Abraham LincolnSend us a textHosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) continue to play catch-up with their schedules. In the meantime, we thank Dr. Katie Healey for letting us "borrow" one of her episodes from the Disability Daily Podcast; the podcast works to shine light on figures or events in disability history each day.From February, Katie talks about Dr. Ray Curzwell and the impact his inventions have had on modern society and good old "honest" Abe Lincoln, whose personal experiences and policies impacted individuals with disabilities.Thanks again to Dr. Healey for her...2025-03-2408 minThe Post Secondary Transition Podcast071. Financial Literacy QuicklookSend us a textHosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) have a short discussion on the importance of financial literacy for students with disabilities, noting a common stigma that they cannot manage their own money. They emphasize the shift from handling cash to using debit cards and the need for basic financial education. Practical strategies include community-based instruction, involving students in household financial decisions, and using chores and allowances to teach budgeting. They highlight the significance of understanding banking, the difference between necessities and luxuries, and the impact of taxes on paychecks. Join the conversation!...2025-03-0312 minThe Post Secondary Transition Podcast070. ABLE Accounts vs. Special Needs TrustSend us a textHost Meghan (Smallwood) and (Patrick Cadigan) discuss estate planning for individuals with disabilities, focusing on ABLE accounts and special needs trusts. They review how ABLE accounts, available in over 45 states, can be used for various expenses like transportation, medical bills and education. They also cover how a special needs trust is managed by attorneys to ensure funds are used for a beneficiary's sole benefit and other useful information. Join the conversation!Episode Keywords:estate planning, ABLE account, special needs trust, SSI, Medicaid, financial management, disability, public benefits, assistive technology, guardianship...2025-02-1711 min
The Infinite Abilities Podcast#119-Patrick Cadigan on Transitioning Challenges, Success, and Embracing ResponsibilityNick Yerhart introduces Patrick Cadigan, who shares his insights on the transition process for students with disabilities. They discuss the challenges and opportunities these students face, emphasizing the shift from entitlement to eligibility. Patrick shares personal family experiences with transition programs, highlighting the uniqueness of individualized special needs experiences. He delves into his podcasting journey and the discovery of a niche, underscoring the value of diverse conversations. The episode offers insights from experts and lessons from successful digital creators. It concludes with a focus on embracing personal responsibility.
https://www.facebook.com/pcadiganhcpss/about_work_and_education
(0:00) Introduction...2025-02-1631 minThe Post Secondary Transition Podcast069. Parent Interview: The Nirschls_Full Discussion (Ep.04 & 05 re-listen)Send us a textHosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) have re-cut their 2022 parent interview with Nick and Remy Nirschl, whose son Rich was preparing to transition out of the school system. The Nirschls share their journey, including Rich's early signs of autism, the challenges of getting a diagnosis, and their experiences with various educational and therapeutic programs. They emphasize the importance of early intervention, the benefits of SSI (Supplemental Security Income), and the decision to pursue self-direction for Rich's post-school life. The conversation highlights the need for parents to start planning early, connect with resources, and...2025-02-0338 minThe Post Secondary Transition Podcast068. Resource(s): Assistive TechnologySend us a textFor this week, hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) focus more at a local level to discuss resources around Assistive Technology (AT). They emphasize the importance of understanding AT needs which can range from low-tech to high-tech. They highlight local resources and some of the benefits they can provide. They also parallel their conversation with some potential supports for home modifications for families in need. Join the conversation! Episode Keywords:assistive technology, transition process, special education, IEP team, low tech, mid tech, high tech, funding sources, DDA, Medicaid, SSI, equipment...2025-01-2020 min
Free Range IdiocyBest In The World Covers!Ever since there has been music, people have been singing each other’s songs. Sometimes it’s a loving tribute, other times it’s a disaster, and a lot of the time it’s a fairly inoffensive, if lazy, rip-off. Occasionally though, the music gods deliver unto us a new version of a song that takes us to a new place in our minds and hearts – all in the span of about 4-5 minutes. Well, we’ve taken on the task of delving into the depths of our musical knowledge and sharing our favorite cover songs with you!
Also, we t...2025-01-172h 13The Post Secondary Transition Podcast067. Resource: Vocational Rehabilitative (VR) Agency LocatorSend us a textHosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan), take a few minutes this week to highlight a resource to locate Rehabilitative Agencies. They emphasize the need for families to research specific states as each has its own eligibility criteria and service offerings; VR agencies typically provide job training, assistive technology, and career counseling. Join the conversation!Episode Keywords:vocational rehabilitation, developmental disabilities, job placement, assistive technology, career assessments, counseling services, eligibility criteria, state-specific agencies, resource website, waiting lists, transition processLinks:Vocational Rehabilitative Agency (page)State Vocational Rehabilitation A...2025-01-0606 minThe Post Secondary Transition Podcast066. Interview: YouTube Content Creator Cody Leach_Full DiscussionSend us a textHosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) have a discussion with Cody Leach, a movie review YouTuber with 176k+ subscribers, about his journey to becoming a full-time content creator. Cody discusses the importance of focusing on a niche, managing negative feedback, navigating challenges like copyright issues and YouTube’s complexities. Cody also shares advice for aspiring YouTubers on content planning, balancing creativity with business, and building resilience in the face of criticism. Join the conversation! Episode Keywords:YouTube content creator, transition process, student interviews, journey, video editing, audience engagement, recording space, li...2024-12-3050 minThe Post Secondary Transition Podcast065. Interview: YouTube Content Creator Cody Leach Pt. 2Send us a textThis week, hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) finish their discussiono about the challenges and realities of becoming a YouTube content creator with Cody Leach. Cody shares his experiences around copyright issues (even when using royalty-free music!) and the complexities of YouTube admin and copyright laws. Cody shares insight on his monthly content planning process, advice for aspiring YouTubers including understanding risk, maintaining a thick skin against negative feedback and balancing creativity with business savvy. Join the conversation!Episode Keywords:YouTube, challenges, copyright issues, content creation, audience engagement, video editing...2024-12-2325 minThe Post Secondary Transition Podcast064. Interview: YouTube Content Creator Cody Leach Pt. 1Send us a textThis week, hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) feature a conversation with content creator Cody Leach. Cody's YouTube channel boasts 175k subscribers and he shares his journey to becoming a full-time YouTube content creator specializing in movie reviews. Cody emphasizes the importance of focusing on a niche, differences in sound for video-only content, the challenges of dealing with negative feedback and differences between live streaming and pre-recorded content. Join the conversation! Episode Keywords: YouTube content creator, horror movie reviews, transition process, student interviews, college experience, podcasting journey, video editing, audience...2024-12-0927 minThe Post Secondary Transition Podcast063. Empowered Beginnings Pt. 4 - Senior Year(+)Send us a textThis week, hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) conclude a series of discussions charting transition through school years. For senior year, they differentiate between diploma-bound students and those on a certificate track. Key points include finalizing student-centered transition plans, participating in transition meetings, and ensuring students are aware of their accommodations and supports. They also stress the importance of building a support network and self-advocacy skills. Join the conversation!Episode Keywords: senior year transition, diploma bound, certificate track, student centered plan, transition meetings, financial aid, FAFSA, standardized tests, college applications...2024-11-2522 minThe Post Secondary Transition Podcast062. Resource: Developmental Disabilities (DD) Agency LocatorSend us a textHosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) had challenges around their school schedules, so a full discussion is still forth coming. Not wanting to leave listeners without new content, they have a quick chat about a resource from the National Association of State Directors of Developmental Disabilities Services that is linked to their parent website, www.postsecondarytransition.com. They discuss the importance of developmental disability (DD) agencies and highlight that each state has their own agency, typically provide services like case management, housing, vocational training, and employment services. Listen up!Episode Keywords:2024-11-1106 minThe Post Secondary Transition Podcast061. Interview: Donna & Bayo from The Difference 2-17_Full DiscussionSend us a textHosts Meghan and Patrick interview Donna Pidel and Adebayo Sodunke from “The Difference 2-17.” The discussion covers the program’s growth, focusing on self-direction, community building, and the importance of independence, relationships, and a supportive environment. They emphasize the program’s focus on personalized care, community inclusion, and giving individuals a voice, with a strong commitment to accessibility and being centrally located. Challenges discussed include maintaining quality during expansion and addressing housing needs. Join the conversation!Episode Keywords: community creation, self-directed services, Alexander, legacy, personal touch, engagement, member happiness, housing challeng...2024-11-0451 minThe Post Secondary Transition Podcast060. Interview: Donna & Bayo from The Difference 2-17 Pt. 2Send us a textThis week, hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) continue to talk with Donna Pidel and Adebayo (Bayo) Sodunke from "The Difference 2-17." This time, their discussion focuses on The Difference 2-17's emphasis on personalized care, community inclusion, and the importance of giving individuals a voice; they stress the importance of being in the heart of towns for accessibility and how that is essential for inclusion. They cover overcoming challenges including maintaining quality as they expand and the desire to address housing needs. Join the conversation!Episode Keywords:community creation...2024-10-2831 min