Shows
Let's Plant HousesLPHS02E14: Building a Better Education System, A Conversation with Heather EcknerInterested in improving educational outcomes for all children of all abilities?
In this episode, I talk with Heather Eckner, an education professional whose personal journey with raising two children with disabilities has led her to become a passionate advocate for inclusive education.
Heather shares her family’s experiences navigating the challenges of early intervention, finding appropriate educational settings, and advocating for her children’s needs within the school system. She discusses her transition from classroom teacher to a leader in the autism advocacy space, highlighting her work with the Autism Alliance of Michigan and her rece...2025-04-1643 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E14: Building a Better Education System, A Conversation with Heather EcknerInterested in improving educational outcomes for all children of all abilities?
In this episode, I talk with Heather Eckner, an education professional whose personal journey with raising two children with disabilities has led her to become a passionate advocate for inclusive education.
Heather shares her family’s experiences navigating the challenges of early intervention, finding appropriate educational settings, and advocating for her children’s needs within the school system. She discusses her transition from classroom teacher to a leader in the autism advocacy space, highlighting her work with the Autism Alliance of Michigan and her rece...2025-04-1600 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E13: AnnMarie Ottoy, advocate and mother, champions the creation of an inclusive playgroundWhat does it take to create an inclusive playground?
In this episode, I sit down with AnnMarie Ottoy to explore her incredible journey – from navigating her son’s early diagnoses to becoming a fierce advocate for inclusion. She shares how her family turned challenges into opportunities, creating a supportive environment that uplifts not just their son but now their entire community.
AnnMarie also takes us behind the scenes of her volunteer work in Clinton Township, Michigan, where she helped bring an inclusive playground to life – a space where all children can play, belong, and thrive.
...2025-04-0200 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E13: AnnMarie Ottoy, advocate and mother, champions the creation of an inclusive playgroundWhat does it take to create an inclusive playground?
In this episode, I sit down with AnnMarie Ottoy to explore her incredible journey – from navigating her son’s early diagnoses to becoming a fierce advocate for inclusion. She shares how her family turned challenges into opportunities, creating a supportive environment that uplifts not just their son but now their entire community.
AnnMarie also takes us behind the scenes of her volunteer work in Clinton Township, Michigan, where she helped bring an inclusive playground to life – a space where all children can play, belong, and thrive.
...2025-04-0200 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E12: Kathy Remski helps families anchor independence through SAILHow can you create a safe, independent future for your child with special needs?
Every parent wants to see their child grow into a happy, independent adult, but for families raising children with special needs, that path can feel uncertain. In this episode, I sit down with Kathy Remski, a mother who has walked this journey and is paving the way for others. She shares her family’s story, from early interventions and overcoming challenges to finding creative solutions for independent living. We also explore the game-changing role of organization she helped create, SAIL (Solutions for Adult In...2025-02-2800 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E12: Kathy Remski helps families anchor independence through SAILHow can you create a safe, independent future for your child with special needs?
Every parent wants to see their child grow into a happy, independent adult, but for families raising children with special needs, that path can feel uncertain. In this episode, I sit down with Kathy Remski, a mother who has walked this journey and is paving the way for others. She shares her family’s story, from early interventions and overcoming challenges to finding creative solutions for independent living. We also explore the game-changing role of organization she helped create, SAIL (Solutions for Adult In...2025-02-2800 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E11: Julie Bullock is finding the joy of profound autismHow do you find joy while raising a child with profound autism?
In this episode, Julie Bullock, a mother of three, opens up about her family’s journey with her son, who has profound or severe autism. She reflects on their experience, from the initial diagnosis and the flurry of therapies to embracing acceptance and discovering joy in the present moment.
Julie discusses the evolving understanding of autism, the importance of community support, and the crucial role of self-care for parents. Now that her son is an adult, she discusses the need for inclusive housing op...2025-02-1828 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E11: Julie Bullock is finding the joy of profound autismHow do you find joy while raising a child with profound autism?
In this episode, Julie Bullock, a mother of three, opens up about her family’s journey with her son, who has profound or severe autism. She reflects on their experience, from the initial diagnosis and the flurry of therapies to embracing acceptance and discovering joy in the present moment.
Julie discusses the evolving understanding of autism, the importance of community support, and the crucial role of self-care for parents. Now that her son is an adult, she discusses the need for inclusive housing op...2025-02-1828 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E10: Julia Dapkus advocates for AAC, inclusion, and communication for all
On this episode, I talk with Julia Dapkus, a dedicated mother and advocate, about her family’s journey with her daughter, Isabelle, who has autism. Julia shares the challenges of navigating early developmental delays, the impact of early intervention, and the power of communication. She also discusses her inspiration for founding Communication is Key AAC, a Michigan-based nonprofit that ensures individuals with complex communication needs have access to the tools and support they deserve. Through scholarships, training, and essential resources – including communication devices, software, literacy materials, and playground communication boards – the organization is breaking barriers and empowering families and school...2025-02-0431 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E10: Julia Dapkus advocates for AAC, inclusion, and communication for all
On this episode, I talk with Julia Dapkus, a dedicated mother and advocate, about her family’s journey with her daughter, Isabelle, who has autism. Julia shares the challenges of navigating early developmental delays, the impact of early intervention, and the power of communication. She also discusses her inspiration for founding Communication is Key AAC, a Michigan-based nonprofit that ensures individuals with complex communication needs have access to the tools and support they deserve. Through scholarships, training, and essential resources – including communication devices, software, literacy materials, and playground communication boards – the organization is breaking barriers and empowering families and school...2025-02-0431 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E09: Todd Turner, founder of Team GUTS, talks family, fitness and communityIn this episode, I sit down with Todd Turner, the inspiring founder of Team GUTS—a nonprofit transforming lives through fitness and sports programs for individuals with special needs. Todd opens up about his family’s journey raising his incredible daughter, who has both Down syndrome and autism. He shares heartfelt stories of challenges, triumphs, and the lessons learned along the way. From the impact of early intervention and advocacy to the life-changing power of fitness and community, this conversation is packed with insights, hope, and inspiration.
2025-01-2800 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E09: Todd Turner, founder of Team GUTS, talks family, fitness and communityIn this episode, I sit down with Todd Turner, the inspiring founder of Team GUTS—a nonprofit transforming lives through fitness and sports programs for individuals with special needs. Todd opens up about his family’s journey raising his incredible daughter, who has both Down syndrome and autism. He shares heartfelt stories of challenges, triumphs, and the lessons learned along the way. From the impact of early intervention and advocacy to the life-changing power of fitness and community, this conversation is packed with insights, hope, and inspiration.
2025-01-2800 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E08: Jess Ronne on caregiving with grit, grace, and communityWhat would you do if you faced profound loss while raising a child with special needs—could you find grit and grace to move forward?
In this episode, I sit down with Jess Ronne—an author, podcaster, nonprofit executive, and passionate advocate for families of children with special needs—to explore this question and more as she shares about her family’s incredible journey. Jess opens up about raising her son, Lucas, who has profound autism, and navigating the emotional and logistical challenges of early childhood, including the heartbreaking loss of her first husband, Lucas’s father. She reflec...2025-01-1429 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E08: Jess Ronne on caregiving with grit, grace, and communityWhat would you do if you faced profound loss while raising a child with special needs—could you find grit and grace to move forward?
In this episode, I sit down with Jess Ronne—an author, podcaster, nonprofit executive, and passionate advocate for families of children with special needs—to explore this question and more as she shares about her family’s incredible journey. Jess opens up about raising her son, Lucas, who has profound autism, and navigating the emotional and logistical challenges of early childhood, including the heartbreaking loss of her first husband, Lucas’s father. She reflec...2025-01-1429 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E07: Sarah Raphael’s ‘neurospicy’ parenting, Extra Lucky Moms, and moreOn this episode, I chat with Sarah Raphael, a mom of two young children, who shares her family’s journey navigating parenting ‘neurospicy’ kids, her advocacy in schools, her focus on self-care and mental health, and the value of connecting with others through special groups like Extra Lucky Moms.
2025-01-1028 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E07: Sarah Raphael’s ‘neurospicy’ parenting, Extra Lucky Moms, and moreOn this episode, I chat with Sarah Raphael, a mom of two young children, who shares her family’s journey navigating parenting ‘neurospicy’ kids, her advocacy in schools, her focus on self-care and mental health, and the value of connecting with others through special groups like Extra Lucky Moms.
2025-01-1028 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E06: A Lifelong Commitment to Guardianship and Advocacy with Lee AckermanIn this episode, Lee Ackerman shares his honest experience as the sibling of his sister Gretchen, who has developmental disabilities. He reflects on growing up together and his role now as her lifelong guardian. Lee also offers valuable insights into planning for the future and supporting families when caregivers are no longer there as the executive of an advocacy, planning, and guardianship nonprofit. Join us for a candid conversation about family, responsibility, and navigating the complexities of guardianship.
2024-12-1044 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E06: A Lifelong Commitment to Guardianship and Advocacy with Lee AckermanIn this episode, Lee Ackerman shares his honest experience as the sibling of his sister Gretchen, who has developmental disabilities. He reflects on growing up together and his role now as her lifelong guardian. Lee also offers valuable insights into planning for the future and supporting families when caregivers are no longer there as the executive of an advocacy, planning, and guardianship nonprofit. Join us for a candid conversation about family, responsibility, and navigating the complexities of guardianship.
2024-12-1044 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E05: Standing Up For Family, Lauren Shares Her StoryIn this episode, Lauren Christilaw shares her experience as a mother to her young son, Henry, who has autism. She reflects on the unique challenges of welcoming a new baby during the pandemic while uncovering developmental delays and then advocating for evaluation, diagnosis, and the necessary services. She also shares some of her experience navigating the schools and the importance of blended classrooms, data-driven results, and documented goals in IEPs to secure the right educational environment for her son. Join us for an empowering conversation about the complexities of parenting a child with special needs and the strength that...2024-11-2628 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E05: Standing Up For Family, Lauren Shares Her StoryIn this episode, Lauren Christilaw shares her experience as a mother to her young son, Henry, who has autism. She reflects on the unique challenges of welcoming a new baby during the pandemic while uncovering developmental delays and then advocating for evaluation, diagnosis, and the necessary services. She also shares some of her experience navigating the schools and the importance of blended classrooms, data-driven results, and documented goals in IEPs to secure the right educational environment for her son. Join us for an empowering conversation about the complexities of parenting a child with special needs and the strength that...2024-11-2628 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E04: Theresa Reflects on the Power of Family, Community, and Down SyndromeIn this heartwarming episode of Let’s Plant Houses, Theresa Gutierrez shares the beautiful story of growing up with her brother, Peter, who has Down syndrome. With a perfect mix of humor and love, Theresa reflects on the brave choice her parents made to embrace Peter’s life, defying the expert advice of the time. But that’s just the beginning—Theresa takes us on a tour of their incredible relationship and the joy Peter brings everyone around him. From his moments in the Special Olympics to the incredible community that has rallied around him and his family, this episode is a cel...2024-11-1228 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E04: Theresa Reflects on the Power of Family, Community, and Down SyndromeIn this heartwarming episode of Let’s Plant Houses, Theresa Gutierrez shares the beautiful story of growing up with her brother, Peter, who has Down syndrome. With a perfect mix of humor and love, Theresa reflects on the brave choice her parents made to embrace Peter’s life, defying the expert advice of the time. But that’s just the beginning—Theresa takes us on a tour of their incredible relationship and the joy Peter brings everyone around him. From his moments in the Special Olympics to the incredible community that has rallied around him and his family, this episode is a cel...2024-11-1228 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E03: Christa Andrews Makes Dream Family Vacations a Reality – Special Needs IncludedDisney vacations have become a childhood rite of passage, but for families with children who have special needs, it can feel out of reach. Enter Christa Andrews from Practically Perfect Vacations, a Certified Autism Travel Professional and a specialist with Disney and Universal resorts. In this episode, she shares how she helps families plan the vacations they’ve dreamed of. Her certification equips her to support individuals on the autism spectrum, ensuring they have a magical and stress-free experience. Tune in to learn how to make your next family getaway possible!
2024-10-2932 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E03: Christa Andrews Makes Dream Family Vacations a Reality – Special Needs IncludedDisney vacations have become a childhood rite of passage, but for families with children who have special needs, it can feel out of reach. Enter Christa Andrews from Practically Perfect Vacations, a Certified Autism Travel Professional and a specialist with Disney and Universal resorts. In this episode, she shares how she helps families plan the vacations they’ve dreamed of. Her certification equips her to support individuals on the autism spectrum, ensuring they have a magical and stress-free experience. Tune in to learn how to make your next family getaway possible!
2024-10-2932 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E02: No One Left Behind: Mireya Turns Love into Purpose for Young Adults with Special NeedsOn this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, I sit down with Mireya Martinez, a single mother who has navigated life’s challenges with grace, all while raising her two children—one of whom, Bianca, has autism. Mireya shares her story about how she turned her love and dedication into a powerful force, creating a community of support through her nonprofit, Just 4 Me. With the motto, “No young adult with special needs or disability is left behind,” Mireya’s mission is to ensure that every individual finds a place to belong. She opens up about building a space where friendships...2024-10-1534 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E02: No One Left Behind: Mireya Turns Love into Purpose for Young Adults with Special NeedsOn this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, I sit down with Mireya Martinez, a single mother who has navigated life’s challenges with grace, all while raising her two children—one of whom, Bianca, has autism. Mireya shares her story about how she turned her love and dedication into a powerful force, creating a community of support through her nonprofit, Just 4 Me. With the motto, “No young adult with special needs or disability is left behind,” Mireya’s mission is to ensure that every individual finds a place to belong. She opens up about building a space where friendships...2024-10-1534 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E01: Kim, a mother navigating her son’s mysterious health journey with love and strengthIn this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, Kim Cascardo opens up about her son Enzo’s journey through significant medical challenges since infancy. Although Enzo remains without a formal diagnosis, his symptoms closely resemble Leigh Syndrome. Kim shares her own wisdom and how her family has come together to support Enzo through his ongoing health battles. Tune in for a powerful conversation about love, strength, and hope in the face of uncertainty.
2024-10-0131 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS02E01: Kim, a mother navigating her son’s mysterious health journey with love and strengthIn this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, Kim Cascardo opens up about her son Enzo’s journey through significant medical challenges since infancy. Although Enzo remains without a formal diagnosis, his symptoms closely resemble Leigh Syndrome. Kim shares her own wisdom and how her family has come together to support Enzo through his ongoing health battles. Tune in for a powerful conversation about love, strength, and hope in the face of uncertainty.
2024-10-0131 min
IT in the DA Podcast about Families with Children with IDD with Wendy Ernzen of Let’s Plant Houses – IT in the D 490Wendy Ernzen joins us to talk about her podcast Let's Plant Houses where she discusses the victories and successes of families whose children—young and adult—have intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Whether you’re a parent on a similar journey or just seeking to expand your understanding, you should subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
If you are interested in learning more about or contributing to Autism Alliance of Michigan, reach out to Wendy.2024-08-1533 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E15: David with Jack is Building a Better World for Down Syndrome and BeyondDavid Buckley joined us to talk about his son Jack’s diagnosis of Down syndrome and the whole new world it opened up for their entire family. Not only are they creating a better life for Jack, but also for others through their involvement with some amazing organizations like the Miracle League, Gigi’s Playhouse, and Angel’s Place to name a few. Come listen to our last episode of the season.
2024-07-1832 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E15: David with Jack is Building a Better World for Down Syndrome and BeyondDavid Buckley joined us to talk about his son Jack’s diagnosis of Down syndrome and the whole new world it opened up for their entire family. Not only are they creating a better life for Jack, but also for others through their involvement with some amazing organizations like the Miracle League, Gigi’s Playhouse, and Angel’s Place to name a few. Come listen to our last episode of the season.
2024-07-1832 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E14: Joel and Debbie, creators of the Dani Plan, are simplifying caregiving and future planningJoel and Debbie are the visionary creators of the Dani Plan, an innovative tool inspired by their eldest daughter, Dani, who has autism. The Dani Plan serves as a secure, centralized hub that organizes and consolidates all essential information needed to care for an individual with special needs. This makes caregiving more manageable and helps families plan for the future. Tune into this episode to hear about their family’s journey and their mission to simplify caregiving and future planning for families with loved ones who have special needs.
2024-06-1223 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E14: Joel and Debbie, creators of the Dani Plan, are simplifying caregiving and future planningJoel and Debbie are the visionary creators of the Dani Plan, an innovative tool inspired by their eldest daughter, Dani, who has autism. The Dani Plan serves as a secure, centralized hub that organizes and consolidates all essential information needed to care for an individual with special needs. This makes caregiving more manageable and helps families plan for the future. Tune into this episode to hear about their family’s journey and their mission to simplify caregiving and future planning for families with loved ones who have special needs.
2024-06-1223 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E13: Rachelle is a visionary committed to unyielding inclusionThis week on Let’s Plant Houses, I had the privilege of interviewing Rachelle Vartanian, the founder of the Living and Learning Center in Northville, Michigan. Rachelle’s journey began with an autism diagnosis for her son. Once she understood the lack of autism resources, she leveraged her expertise as a special education professional and her dedication as a parent to create new opportunities for him and others. What started with social skills sessions at a public library has grown into the Living and Learning Center, a special and unique place that provides therapeutic, social, work-based, and community engagement for peop...2024-05-2924 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E13: Rachelle is a visionary committed to unyielding inclusionThis week on Let’s Plant Houses, I had the privilege of interviewing Rachelle Vartanian, the founder of the Living and Learning Center in Northville, Michigan. Rachelle’s journey began with an autism diagnosis for her son. Once she understood the lack of autism resources, she leveraged her expertise as a special education professional and her dedication as a parent to create new opportunities for him and others. What started with social skills sessions at a public library has grown into the Living and Learning Center, a special and unique place that provides therapeutic, social, work-based, and community engagement for peop...2024-05-2924 minLet's Plant HousesEp. 13: LPH – Rachelle is a visionary committed to unyielding inclusionThis week on Let’s Plant Houses, I had the privilege of interviewing Rachelle Vartanian, the founder of the Living and Learning Center in Northville, Michigan. Rachelle’s journey began with an autism diagnosis for her son. Once she understood the lack of autism resources, she leveraged her expertise as a special education professional and her dedication as a parent to create new opportunities for him and others. What started with social skills sessions at a public library has grown into the Living and Learning Center, a special and unique place that provides therapeutic, social, work-based, and community engagement for...2024-05-2924 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E12: Janice and her son Micah, trailblazers who are changing the world for disabilitiesOn this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, I am joined by Janice Fialka, a nationally-recognized lecturer, author, and advocate for families and people with disabilities, who tells her family’s origin story. Micah, her son, was born with a cognitive impairment, but that didn’t stop him from sharing and seizing his dreams. Janice recounts Micah’s pioneering path towards complete inclusion, spanning from his early education to college, work, and beyond. His journey and their collective advocacy has had a lasting impact on the entire disabilities community. You can learn more about Janice, Micah, and their work at: https...2024-05-0830 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E12: Janice and her son Micah, trailblazers who are changing the world for disabilitiesOn this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, I am joined by Janice Fialka, a nationally-recognized lecturer, author, and advocate for families and people with disabilities, who tells her family’s origin story. Micah, her son, was born with a cognitive impairment, but that didn’t stop him from sharing and seizing his dreams. Janice recounts Micah’s pioneering path towards complete inclusion, spanning from his early education to college, work, and beyond. His journey and their collective advocacy has had a lasting impact on the entire disabilities community. You can learn more about Janice, Micah, and their work at: https...2024-05-0830 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E11: Benji and Sarah, inspired by Ellah, are shining a light on CSS and ACCJoin me on Let’s Plant Houses for a heartfelt conversation with Benji and Sarah as they reflect on their family’s extraordinary journey with their daughter, Ellah. Born with Coffin-Siris Syndrome (CSS) as well as a rare defect, Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum (ACC), Ellah faces unique health and developmental hurdles. Yet her resilience and push to be understood has created remarkable communication breakthroughs. Benji and Sarah delve into this story and more as well as their own incredible advocacy that has brought awareness of this rare condition to our local communities and beyond.
2024-04-2444 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E11: Benji and Sarah, inspired by Ellah, are shining a light on CSS and ACCJoin me on Let’s Plant Houses for a heartfelt conversation with Benji and Sarah as they reflect on their family’s extraordinary journey with their daughter, Ellah. Born with Coffin-Siris Syndrome (CSS) as well as a rare defect, Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum (ACC), Ellah faces unique health and developmental hurdles. Yet her resilience and push to be understood has created remarkable communication breakthroughs. Benji and Sarah delve into this story and more as well as their own incredible advocacy that has brought awareness of this rare condition to our local communities and beyond.
2024-04-2444 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E10: What’s available in our local community? A resource roundup with Wendy ErnzenWe covered a lot of ground with the first nine episodes of Let’s Plant Houses. On this 10th episode, I am a sharing a Top 10 List of resources mentioned in our stories in just 15 minutes. This episode is perfect for parents, caregivers, and professionals who are looking to learn about what’s available in our local area and why they might want to reach out to learn more.
2024-04-1113 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E10: What’s available in our local community? A resource roundup with Wendy ErnzenWe covered a lot of ground with the first nine episodes of Let’s Plant Houses. On this 10th episode, I am a sharing a Top 10 List of resources mentioned in our stories in just 15 minutes. This episode is perfect for parents, caregivers, and professionals who are looking to learn about what’s available in our local area and why they might want to reach out to learn more.
2024-04-1113 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E09: Tracie’s story about autism, innovation, and soapJoin us on Let’s Plant Houses when I sit down with Tracie, a savvy and resourceful mother and entrepreneur. Tracie discusses pivotal moments including her son’s diagnosis of autism to the creation of his thriving business Expedition Soaps, the completion of his college degree, his well traveled passport, and his future just beginning. In turn, Tracie has used her own lived experience to launch the IEP Advantage, a groundbreaking resource that equips parents with the knowledge and confidence to advocate effectively for their children.
2024-03-2730 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E09: Tracie’s story about autism, innovation, and soapJoin us on Let’s Plant Houses when I sit down with Tracie, a savvy and resourceful mother and entrepreneur. Tracie discusses pivotal moments including her son’s diagnosis of autism to the creation of his thriving business Expedition Soaps, the completion of his college degree, his well traveled passport, and his future just beginning. In turn, Tracie has used her own lived experience to launch the IEP Advantage, a groundbreaking resource that equips parents with the knowledge and confidence to advocate effectively for their children.
2024-03-2730 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E08: Rhonda shares her family’s story of resilience and entrepreneurshipJoin us on this episode of Let’s Plant Houses when we sit down with Rhonda, who shares her family’s story of resilience and entrepreneurship. When her son with autism finished high school and a trade program, Tyler could not find a job even with his advanced degree. Rather than remaining unemployed, Rhonda helped Tyler transform his household chore of returning bottles into a thriving business, Tyler’s Bottle Service. Stay tuned as we learn about the challenges they faced, their successes, and the lessons learned along the way.
2024-03-1334 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E08: Rhonda shares her family’s story of resilience and entrepreneurshipJoin us on this episode of Let’s Plant Houses when we sit down with Rhonda, who shares her family’s story of resilience and entrepreneurship. When her son with autism finished high school and a trade program, Tyler could not find a job even with his advanced degree. Rather than remaining unemployed, Rhonda helped Tyler transform his household chore of returning bottles into a thriving business, Tyler’s Bottle Service. Stay tuned as we learn about the challenges they faced, their successes, and the lessons learned along the way.
2024-03-1334 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E07: Lisa’s story about her daughter’s extraordinary life and legacyJoin us on this episode of Let’s Plant Houses when we sit down with Lisa. Lisa talks about Shay, her daughter with complex special needs who passed away and the amazing legacy she has left. Come learn about Shay’s extraordinary life, the remarkable imprint she left on others, and the inspiring work Lisa is now doing in our communities.
2024-02-2825 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E07: Lisa’s story about her daughter’s extraordinary life and legacyJoin us on this episode of Let’s Plant Houses when we sit down with Lisa. Lisa talks about Shay, her daughter with complex special needs who passed away and the amazing legacy she has left. Come learn about Shay’s extraordinary life, the remarkable imprint she left on others, and the inspiring work Lisa is now doing in our communities.
2024-02-2825 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E06: Julie’s journey navigating special needs in higher educationJoin us on this episode of Let’s Plant Houses as we sit down with Julie, a remarkable parent who shares her family’s journey of navigating a special needs diagnosis during her son’s pursuit of higher education at a university. Through heartfelt storytelling, she shares the challenges faced, the pivotal moments of growth, and the unwavering commitment to creating an inclusive and successful college experience.
2024-02-1436 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E06: Julie’s journey navigating special needs in higher educationJoin us on this episode of Let’s Plant Houses as we sit down with Julie, a remarkable parent who shares her family’s journey of navigating a special needs diagnosis during her son’s pursuit of higher education at a university. Through heartfelt storytelling, she shares the challenges faced, the pivotal moments of growth, and the unwavering commitment to creating an inclusive and successful college experience.
2024-02-1436 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E05: Kelly’s journey from advocacy to an inclusive coffee shopJoin us on this episode of Let’s Plant Houses when we sit down with Kelly, a passionate parent who courageously embraced inclusion by establishing a coffee shop dedicated to employing individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Kelly’s advocacy, initially inspired by her remarkable daughter with Down syndrome, has blossomed into a transformative social enterprise.
2024-01-2422 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E05: Kelly’s journey from advocacy to an inclusive coffee shopJoin us on this episode of Let’s Plant Houses when we sit down with Kelly, a passionate parent who courageously embraced inclusion by establishing a coffee shop dedicated to employing individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Kelly’s advocacy, initially inspired by her remarkable daughter with Down syndrome, has blossomed into a transformative social enterprise.
2024-01-2422 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E04: Star’s pursuit for the best education for her daughterJoin 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 educational environment for her daughter. Through an honest conversation, she illuminates the challenges faced, the pivotal moments of discovery, and the transformative power of a supportive place for her child.
2024-01-1227 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E04: Star’s pursuit for the best education for her daughterJoin 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 educational environment for her daughter. Through an honest conversation, she illuminates the challenges faced, the pivotal moments of discovery, and the transformative power of a supportive place for her child.
2024-01-1227 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E03: Jenni empowered her son to find employmentJoin 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 son’s journey in securing a job. Through candid and uplifting conversation, her family exemplifies the powerful impact of perseverance.
2024-01-1227 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E03: Jenni empowered her son to find employmentJoin 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 son’s journey in securing a job. Through candid and uplifting conversation, her family exemplifies the powerful impact of perseverance.
2024-01-1227 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E02: Tom’s inspiring journey raising his son with complex needsJoin 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.
2024-01-1230 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E02: Tom’s inspiring journey raising his son with complex needsJoin 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.
2024-01-1230 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E01: Our story navigating crisis with our adult autistic daughterJoin us for this episode of “Let’s Plant Houses,” where my husband, Bill, and I engage in a heartfelt conversation about the most challenging crisis we’ve encountered with our beloved daughter, Nicola, who has profound autism and bipolar disorder. In this candid discussion, we will openly share our harrowing journey through the intricacies of the healthcare system, with the hope that our story can serve as a beacon of guidance and support for others facing similar challenges.
2024-01-0735 minLet's Plant HousesLPHS01E01: Our story navigating crisis with our adult autistic daughterJoin us for this episode of “Let’s Plant Houses,” where my husband, Bill, and I engage in a heartfelt conversation about the most challenging crisis we’ve encountered with our beloved daughter, Nicola, who has profound autism and bipolar disorder. In this candid discussion, we will openly share our harrowing journey through the intricacies of the healthcare system, with the hope that our story can serve as a beacon of guidance and support for others facing similar challenges.
2024-01-0735 min