Navigating Life as we Know It | nlawki

Navigating Life as we Know It

Navigating Live as we Know It seeks to build an educational and entertaining way to help the people around those with Special Needs better find the way to live their best, most self-determined life possible, and how to manage the challenges of the systems © 2025 Envision Media Group LLC

Transforming Adversity into Growth for Parents of Disabled Children
When you first discover you'll be parenting a child with disabilities, the road ahead can seem daunting and lonely. Kris Burbank and Linda Hoopes join me to shed light on this path, offering wisdom
64. Visual Thinking in a "Talky Culture" with Temple Grandin
Ever wondered how one's mindset shapes their success? Join us as we explore this theme with the remarkable Dr. Temple Grandin, an autism advocate who turned her diagnosis into a testament of
Inclusive Journeys: How Accessible Go is Changing Travel
Navigating the world with a disability can often feel like an uphill battle, especially when it comes to travel. We've experienced it firsthand as we journey with our son Lliam. Our struggles sparked
63. Inclusive Journeys: How Accessible Go is Changing Travel
Navigating the world with a disability can often feel like an uphill battle, especially when it comes to travel. We've experienced it firsthand as we journey with our son Lliam. Our struggles sparked
Thoughtful Spaces And Joyful Places - Custom Joy
When we first spoke with Tiffany Dill several months ago it was about her Universal Design Consulting firm, Blue Day 2. As of July 1, 2023, she has combined her talents and passion for accessible
62. Thoughtful Spaces And Joyful Places - Custom Joy
When we first spoke with Tiffany Dill several months ago it was about her Universal Design Consulting firm, Blue Day 2. As of July 1, 2023, she has combined her talents and passion for accessible
Magic Mystery Tour
Moving out of a family home is one of life's "exciting, sad, happy, and scary" events. There are so many changes that come with having a place of your own. But...there is also growth and
61. Magic Mystery Tour
Moving out of a family home is one of life's "exciting, sad, happy, and scary" events. There are so many changes that come with having a place of your own. But...there is also growth and
60. With Liberty and Access For All: MDRC
We all have two basic needs as human beings. One is to be authentic, to live our lives in a manner that reflects our true selves. The other human need is to be accepted within a
Sweet Dream are Made of These: The ZPod Story
Many people seem to have a "problematic" relationship with sleep. We take medications to keep us awake...and we take medications to make us sleep. But sleep...a GOOD night's sleep, is
59. Sweet Dream are Made of These: The ZPod Story
Many people seem to have a "problematic" relationship with sleep. We take medications to keep us awake...and we take medications to make us sleep. But sleep...a GOOD night's sleep, is
They Listen, They Care
Individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families often find themselves dealing with complexity and even intentional obfuscation as they navigate the path of
58. They Listen, They Care
Individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families often find themselves dealing with complexity and even intentional obfuscation as they navigate the path of
57. Collaborating and Trust, some help with planning for the future
"The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry!" is an old and unfortunately true statement. And "best laid plans" often "go awry" for two reasons. 1) poor planning...or no planning, and 2)
56. Barriers to the Ballot
Voting is a constitutional right for an overwhelming majority of Americans, but the reality is people with disabilities, racial minorities and economically challenged individuals face far more
55. An Anecdotal Field Guide for The Rest of Us
In this new book, Tracee offers you the tips she remembers, stories of adversity and success, to document her personal battles with self and others in a position to grant or deny life-saving tools,
55. An Anecdotal Field Guide for The Rest of Us
In this new book, Tracee offers you the tips she remembers, stories of adversity and success, to document her personal battles with self and others in a position to grant or deny life-saving tools,
54. Vitalxchange - The Uber of Diability Resources
If you set out to climb the Himalayas it would be wise to hire a sherpa. Why, you ask? Because the climb may be treacherous and your mistakes very costly! A sherpa has been on the path many times and
53. A Deep Dive into Courage
There is a gulf between changing a world and changing THE world, and the difference is the people who help build the steam needed to bring about true and lasting change to the way a society
52. Advocacy and Education for Independence
Affordable, accessible housing, transportation and internet availability are serious issues for people with disabilities in just about every state in the USA. It is especially problematic in
51. It's BROKEN - Let's Fix It: Support the NADSP
Imagine engaging an architect to create plans for the perfect house to fill all your needs.... You are excited about turning this dream into a reality…but then discovering there is no one to do the
50. Faith Love & Courage Pt 3
Episode 3 - Life together and Changing the WorldMost movements for social change are identified with a few prominent and well-known leaders. For instance, people like Martin Luther King, John F
49. Faith, Love & Courage Pt 2
Episode 2 - Love and the Audacity of Change Most movements for social change are identified with a few prominent and well-known leaders. For instance, people like Martin Luther King, John
48. Faith, Love & Courage Pt 1
Family, Faith, and the Seed of Self AdvocacyMost movements for social change are identified with a few prominent and well-known leaders. For instance, people like Martin Luther King, John F
47. Caring About and Beyond
It is not ever comfortable discussion what happens after someone dies. But when it comes to the death of care providing parents conversations need to happen and plans must be made. Legal, financial
46. The Many Flavors of Medicaid Waivers 301 - Children's Waivers & Independent Facilitation
When you have a child with a developmental or intellectual disability your life gets complex. Often it becomes overwhelming. Navigating a path to find the right resources is
45. The Many Flavors of Medicaid Waivers 201
Imagine yourself on a vacation to a country where your native language is not spoken. Let's say Portugal. You do not know how to speak or read Portuguese, but you are given a map to help you get
44. The Many Flavors of Medicaid Waivers
Our show today is “The Different Flavors of Medicaid Waivers” …. but you are also going to hear a lot of discussion about person-centered-planning (PCP) and the proper use of two assessment tools
43. Navigating The Risks/Rewards of Relationships
Growing up can be hard. Especially the teenage years. And even more so if the teenager in question has social skill deficits. As humans we are all "hard wired" for relationships with other humans.
Being Here Now, an introduction to NLAWKI's Mindful Moments
I'm probably showing my age...but some of you might remember the routine of "defragging" your computer to allow it to work more quickly and efficiently. It was once described to be as allowing your
42. The Right Place To Land - Finding the Best Nest
"There's no place like home!" In the Wizard of Oz Dorothy said these words and clicked the heels of her ruby slippers three times. Instantly she was transported back to her farm home in Kansas. This
41. Forgiveness: The Pathway from Emotional Pain to Growth
Everyone has heard the phrase "forgive and forget." That isn't always possible, or even advisable. It is important to remember. To recall emotional pain that has played a destructive
40. Finding The Emerald City
Remember Dorothy and the Wizard of Oz? She had an impossible task. First retrieve the broom stick of the Wicked Witch and deliver it to the Wizard of Oz who would grant her wish to return to her home
39. Letting Go and Letting Grow
It's hard to let go of things...and I have a garage filled with items I should have let go of years ago. But I keep thinking, maybe I'll find a use for this "thing." But I hardly if ever do. It is
38. A Short Bridge to Inclusion
Bridges create opportunities for connection. They empower travel to visit people and places that might otherwise be inaccessible. And they often unite people together to pursue common goals. Some are
37. The Risks of "Integrated Care"
The Space Shuttle, with over 2.5 million parts, 230 miles of wire and 1,060 plumbing valves was once described as the most complex "machine" ever made by man. For successful results it's mission
36. Charting The Labyrinth of Planning and Services
Most of us at one time or another have driven down a dark road and found ahead of us a deer transfixed, staring into our headlights? Have you ever felt like you have something in common with the
35. A Proven Recipe for Inclusive Employment
"You can't age out of being in a family" according to Rabbi Levi Shemtov, Executive Director of the Friendship Circle in Bloomfield Michigan. Over the past 27 years as children within the Friendship
34. A Party with a Purpose - Coordinating Goals and Support for a Self Determined Life
Today’s episode is an interview with Annette Downey, the Executive Director of Community Living Services, an organization that provides Independent Support Coordinators, (abbreviated as ISCs) for
Special 4. The Art of Conversation via Chat Chains
We're back and we've got a new trick! NLAWKI Returns a couple weeks ahead of our OFFICIAL SEASON 2 START DATE with a special release about a new way to learn conversation skills - CHAT CHAINS! Check
33. Nothing About Me Without Me 2; Finding Strength in Circles
Imagine growing older...but never growing up. Never being allowed to make decisions or choices that influence your future, or bring you happiness. Never being able to "grab the brass
32. Nothing About Me Without Me; Understanding the Dignity of Risk Pt 1
We all seek advice from time to time. Especially when confronted with a challenge that is unique to us. Sometimes that trusted advisor is a friend who has expertise in solving the problem we face, or
32. Nothing About Me Without Me; Understanding the Dignity of Risk Pt 1
We all seek advice from time to time. Especially when confronted with a challenge that is unique to us. Sometimes that trusted advisor is a friend who has expertise in solving the problem we face, or
31. Finding a Vision for Community's Future
Community (Cambridge Dictionary)“all the people who live in a particular area, or a group of people who are considered as a unit because of their shared interests or background.”Vision (Cambridge
30. How to Bridge The Gap Between Disability and Employment
Everyone benefits when all are included!Many of us have experienced challenges obtaining employment. If you have a developmental or intellectual disability those challenges take on a whole new
29. Let's talk about Disability, Housing, and the Awesome Power of Coalitions
Our culture places great emphasis on rugged individualism. Our heroes and role models are risk takers who face overwhelming odds and obstacles but, in the end, through grit and determination
28. Let's Talk About Changing your Dreams...
Everyone wants to live a beautiful life, but in every life we are faced with challenges. Many of those challenges involve processing grief over the loss of a loved one, the loss of a
27. You Know You're thinking about it: Legal Planning & Disability
Legal planning is intimidating, but nobody wants to leave others on shaky ground. The key is a Well Laid Foundation, and friend of the show Dan Blauw is here to help us understand some of the
26. Exploring Autism Pt IV - What's going on age 11 and up?
Part 4 of our Exploring Autism Series digs into what happens after 10 years old? As usual our friends at Brains give us plenty of amazing information, and there is a followup powerpoint ON OUR BLOG
Exploring Autism Pt IV - What's going on age 11 and up?
Part 4 of our Exploring Autism Series digs into what happens after 10 years old? As usual our friends at Brains give us plenty of amazing information, and there is a followup powerpoint ON
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25. Let's Chart a Life Course Pt 2
We return with our 2nd episode about Charting the life course, a more intensive way to plan for the future that is applicable to ANYONE!Please follow along on OUR BLOG and let us know if you have
24. Let's Chart a Life Course Pt 1
Join us as we discuss "Charting the Life Course" with Resource Analyst Tracy Vincent in our 2 part series about this wonderful framework that can be applied in everyone's life!We've posted the slides
23. Disability And Me - Let's Talk Taxes with the ARC of Michigan!
Tax Season is here and at the request of a listener we've reached out to the ARC of Oakland County's Executive Director Tom Kendziorski Esq. to go over their incredibly helpful tax guide! Find the
22. Exploring Autism Pt III - Resources for Families and Overcoming Barriers
Today's episode provides some tips on how to effectively reduce stress and improve communications within families living with ASD and other developmental disabilities. This podcast is based
21. Understanding SSA Pt 2 - Work Incentives
Few people enjoy walking on a tightrope, but that is what working while depending on SSI for benefits feels, lose your balance and everything falls to the floor.We continue our episode with Hillary
20. Understanding SSA Pt 1 -SSI and SSDI
Most government benefit programs are infused with a level of complexity that is inappropriate for the faint of heart. Social Security is no exception., This episode is part 1 of a 2 part
19. Let's Talk about Advocacy - Legal Protection and Advocacy with Disability Rights Michigan
Today, Navigating Life As We Know It explores how Disability Rights Michigan (DRM) advocates and DRM lawyers advise individuals with disabilities of their rights and responsibilities while they
18. Exploring Autism Pt II - What's Going On Between Ages 0 and 10?
Today we're back with our friends at BRAINS to discuss autism between ages 0 and 10 as part of their workshop program.This is the 20th Episode of NLAWKI and the 2nd out of 4 episodes with BRAINS. If
17. Together for Choice
Join our discussion with Together For Choice national director Amy Kim and board chair Scott Mendel as we delve into the complex choices around housing and the principles of choice for the disability
16. Getting to know Therapeutic Riding a little better
Therapeutic Riding can be incredibly helpful for many individuals, but we've always wanted to know more about why horseback riding can be so helpful. Thankfully we have a riding center here in West
15. Exploring Autism Pt I - Diagnosis and the Mind-Body Connection
Visiting with our friends at BRAINS we dived into the first part of their program by trying to understand the Diagnostic Criteria and Mind-Body Connection related to Autism. Check out OUR WEBSITE and
14. What are ABLE accounts and how can they help you?
Join us for a discussion about ABLE accounts with Sarah Kirkpatrick.If you're dependent on SSI, at this time you are limited to less than $2,000 in significant assets and savings, but we all know
13. At Home with The Kelsey
Today NLAWKI Welcomes Micaela Connery, CEO and founder of The Kelsey. Micaela will share their work in advancing disability-forward housing solutions through development, advocacy, and
Specials 3. Navigating Life with Lliam Part 2
***WARNING***The topics in this episode might not be suitable for everyone. This episode covers the period of time during which one of the twins passes. This is an intense and very raw subject that
12. Workforce Solutions for Individuals with Disabilities
We take a dive into Michigan Rehabilitation Services programs and offerings with Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Cassaundra Wolf.Support the Show.Thank you for listening to our
11. Creative Housing Options
Steve's visit with Attorney Dan Baluw, discussing the various legal aspects of Housing for people with disabilities!Support the Show.Thank you for listening to our podcast and for your continued
Specials 2. Navigating Life with Lliam
Part one of a special miniseries that will be aired on key dates, Navigating Life with Lliam is a walk through of the experiences and circumstances that have defined our own journey and eventually
10. Grassroots Activism
Take a few steps towards understanding Grassroots activism with local organizer, lawyer, and candidate for state legislature Lily Chen Schulting.Support the Show.Thank you for listening to our
9. Ableism, The Media, & You with Prof. Beth Haller!
When discussing Ableism, Media, and how they interact, there are few people as qualified Dr. Beth Haller, so of course we went and got ahold of her and from that comes an episode in a slightly
8. Legislation You Should Know About
Earlier this year we met with Brett Williams and went over several bills currently moving through various legislative circles that will have an impact on several aspects of life for individuals with
7. The Friendship Circle - Seeking the "Secret" to an Inclusive Community
Early in our Podcast journey we had the pleasure of touring the Friendship Circle location in West Bloomfield Michigan, seeing the work done at the Soul Studio, and enjoying a nice lunch at the Soul
6. Legislation and You - HCBS And the Olmstead Act
Nearly every special needs parent or caregiver has heard at some point the acronym HCBS or mention of the venerable Olmstead Act, and Michigan DD Council Legislative Liaison Brett Williams is
5. Michigan's Best Kept Secret - The DD Council
Steve talks to the Executive Director of the Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council Vendella Collins about the Council, what it does, and what that means to you, and for our non-Michigan
4. CIF - The Full Life Model
Part two of our interview with Jackie Eddy and Ann Sickon of the Center for Independent Futures is about The Full Life Model®. The tasks of everyday living often leave us exhausted but
3. CIF - Creating Living Options in your Community
One of our first interviews back in October 2019, Steve's interview with the Center for Independent Futures (CIF) Executive Director Ann Sickon and New Futures Initiative Consultant Jacqueline Eddy
2. Feisty and Non Compliant Pt 2 - An Advocate for Change
Part 2 of our interview with Liz Bauer.This is our interview with a pioneer in disability rights, self-determination and inclusion. Liz Bauer, a woman of uncommon determination and courage,
1. Feisty and Non Compliant Pt 1
Elizabeth "Liz" Bauer has been fighting for disability rights on the ground from the very beginning. Liz is a legal advocate for disability rights nationally and internationally starting the 1980s.
Specials 1. An Introduction to Navigating Life as we Know It
The first look at Navigating Life as we Know It. This is a "special" episode where Steve and Kerry talk a little about what can be expected in upcoming episodes. Support the Show.Thank you for

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