The Post Secondary Transition Podcast
Meghan Smallwood; Patrick Cadigan
A podcast focused on the ins and outs (and everything in between) of the secondary transition process for families of students with disabilities! Hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) serve as supportive guides, leading families step-by-step up each rung of the transition ladder.Also check out our parent website: https://www.postsecondarytransition.com
070. ABLE Accounts vs. Special Needs Trust
Send 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 Ke
069. 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 deci
068. Resource(s): Assistive Technology
Send 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 techn
067. Resource: Vocational Rehabilitative (VR) Agency Locator
Send 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,
066. Interview: YouTube Content Creator Cody Leach_Full Discussion
Send 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
065. Interview: YouTube Content Creator Cody Leach Pt. 2
Send 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 fe
064. Interview: YouTube Content Creator Cody Leach Pt. 1
Send 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 t
063. 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
062. Resource: Developmental Disabilities (DD) Agency Locator
Send 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 st
061. Interview: Donna & Bayo from The Difference 2-17_Full Discussion
Send 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 maintain
060. Interview: Donna & Bayo from The Difference 2-17 Pt. 2
Send 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 m
059. Interview: Donna & Bayo from The Difference 2-17 Pt. 1
Send us a textThis week, hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) interview Donna Pidel and Adebayo (Bayo) Sodunke from "The Difference 2-17. Their discussion covers how the program focuses on self-direction and community building; emphasizing the importance of independence, relationships, and a supportive environment. They talk about how the program has grown from a small initiative to multiple sites, with strong partnerships. They highlight the significance of building a community t
058. Community Discussion: Zabrina Kearns - Home Turf Transitions_Full Discussion
Send us a textHosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) invite Zabrina Kearns to have a discussion with them about what transition looks like for families in her New Jersey district. Zabrina shares out from her extensive background in special education, applied behavior analysis and her current roles as Work-Based Learning supervisor, & transition coordinator. The trio discuss the differences in transition programs and outcomes between states, the importance of independent living skills, an
057. Community Discussion: Zabrina Kearns - Home Turf Transitions Pt. 2
Send us a textHosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) continue their conversation with educator, supervisor and transition coordinator Zabrina Kearns. They cover the importance of teaching soft skills like professionalism & interactions, the need for students to gain experience in various industries, the complexities of funding and the need for better communication with families about available resources through local DD and VR agencies. Join the conversation!Episode Keywords:DVRS, tr
056. Community Discussion: Zabrina Kearns - Home Turf Transitions Pt. 1
Send us a textHosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) invite Zabrina Kearns to have a discussion with them about what transition looks like for families in her New Jersey district. Zabrina shares out from her extensive background in special education, applied behavior analysis and her current roles as Work-Based Learning supervisor, & transition coordinator. The trio discuss the differences in transition programs and outcomes between states, the importance of independent living skills, an
055. Empowered Beginnings Pt. 3 - Junior Year
Send us a textHosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) are back for Season 3! At the start of the upcoming school year, they continue their discussion of what transition can look like during junior year. They talk about considerations around applying for medical assistance and Social Security, healthcare transitions, the importance of financial planning, career exploration and never forgetting the importance of those basic independent living skills (for all levels). Join the conversation.E
PodShare: T21Mom - Meeka Caldwell
Send us a textAs hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) continue to prep for their upcoming school year, they wanted to share out a conversation from their friend, Mary Cardle of the T21Mom Podcast. In Episode 90 of T21Mom Podcast, Mary talks with author Meeka Caldwell about her "My Friend Anian" book series. Meeka couldn't find any books about down syndrome and a black family, so she decided to write her own. It's an open conversation about race, down syndrome and having representation
PodShare: Future Forward IEP Advocacy with Ashely Barlow
Send us a textAs hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) are on break, they wanted to share out a talk they recently heard from Podcaster/Advocate/Educator & Parent, Ashley Barlow.In this recent talk from her own podcast, Special Education Advocacy with Ashley Barlow, Ashley, a special education attorney in Kentucky, muses on her own experiences with her son, Jack, and thinking about his future. She talks about the importance of building skills and habits for independent living, consi
054. Interview: Audri Levering (Parents Place of MD) & Supported Decision Making_Full Discussion
Send us a textHosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) are taking off the month of August to prep for the upcoming season. In the meantime, here is the full discussion with Audri Levering, Transition Program Coordinator at Parents Place of Maryland (PPM). The conversation covers the resources available for families of students with disabilities through PPM and the importance of considering all options available to families when considering the future of children as they grow into adults. T
053. Interview: Audri Levering (Parents Place of MD) & Supported Decision Making Pt. 2
Send us a Text Message.Hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) continue their talk with Audri Levering, Transition Program Coordinator at Parents Place of Maryland (PPM). They discuss options available to families as they consider guardianship. They talk about the need to create opportunities for individuals to make choices, the value of lessons learned from failure and avoid doing things for children with disabilities that they can do for themselves. Please, join the conversation! Episod
052. Interview: Audri Levering (Parents Place of MD) & Supported Decision Making Pt. 1
Send us a textFor Part 1 of a two-part discussion, hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) take the opportunity to talk with Audri Levering, Transition Program Coordinator at Parents Place of Maryland (PPM). The conversation covers the resources available for families of students with disabilities through PPM and the importance of considering all options available to families when considering the future of children as they grow into adults. Ms. Levering talks about her grant-funded work t
051. Empowered Beginnings Pt. 2 - Sophomore Year
Send us a Text Message.Hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) shift their focus to the transition planning process as it continues to take shape in sophomore year (of high school). The conversation highlights the importance of opening an ABLE account, attending transition fairs and exploring school-based options such as work programs. Additionally, they discuss various strategies for supporting diploma-bound and non-diploma-bound students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in
050. Empowered Beginnings Pt. 1 - Updates for Middle & Onto Freshman Year
Send us a textHosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) hit #Episode50! Their discussion involves the changes seen in the IEP over this past school year and focus their attention to the transition planning process as it begins to take shape in freshman year (of high school). The conversation highlights the need for families to explore state-funded agencies, keep track of documentation and familiarizing themselves with disability-related vocabulary and transition acronyms. Join the conversa
049. Interview: Doug DeHaan & The Hussman Center (at Towson University)
Send us a textThis week, hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) have the opportunity to speak with Doug DeHaan, Director of the Hussman Center at Towson University. Together, they discuss the importance of understanding and supporting individuals with autism. They talk about how the Hussman Center offers safe spaces and activities for autistic adults to socialize and build connections, while also acknowledging the significance of family involvement. Join the conversation!Episode Keywords
048. Community Discussion: Tim Markle & the Wisconsin Integrated Transition Planning Project (WITPP)
Send us a textThis week, hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) jump states to sit down with Tim Markle and discuss the Wisconsin Integrated Transition Planning Project (WITPP). That collaboration brings together self-advocates, family members, and professionals with the goal of improving transition for young adults with disabilities, including advocating for a greater understanding and say in healthcare transition. Join the conversation!Episode Keywords:transition, Wisconsin, families,
047. Transition Planning: Where to Start (Ep. 12 Re-listen)
Send us a textSo, hosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) had a scheduling challenge around their next discussion, so they'll need some more time 😞In the interim, they thought it would be a good idea to push an "oldie but goodie." They have re-edited Ep 12 so that you get straight to their discussion about where to begin (starting in a student's freshman year of high school and working through to senior year). They've also updated the audio (a bit) and the episod
046. Interview: Meredith Gregoire-Cope - Constantly Thinking Outside the Box
Send us a textThis week, hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) are joined by Transition Coordinator Meredith Gregoire-Cope. The dynamic three-oo talk about the importance of work opportunities for students with disabilities, how transition for diploma-bound students looks different, out of the box thinking that can lead to breakthroughs and the need to put yourself out there to build partnerships. Join us in the conversation! Episode Keywords:students, jobs, transition, conversations, o
045. Person-Centered Planning: Your Personal Compass
Send us a textHappy April Fools Day! But, no joke, we have another conversation for your listening ears. Pivoting from their recent parent interview, this week hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) discuss Person Centered Planning (PCP). They'll cover the benefits establishing a Person Centered Plan can bring, clarify some of the roadblocks you might encounter and highlight some of the resources they have found useful when doing research. Join in the conversation! Episode Keywords:
044. Parent Interview: Jane Plapinger - Transition is a Million Pieces Pt. 2
Send us a textThis week, hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) return to finish their parent interview with Jane Plapinger. For this part of the discussion, Jane ruminates on things she wish she knew ahead of time, the importance of being flexible and her son David building an adult life. Please join in the conversation!Episode Keywords:agency, residential staff, families, experience, working, information, admissions, school, transportation, provider, program, housematesLinks:Adult Agen
043. Parent Interview: Jane Plapinger - Transition is a Million Pieces Pt. 1
Send us a textThis week, hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) return to their favorite format, the parent interview. For this conversation, the duo welcome Jane Plapinger whose son David has autism and continues to work through the transition process. Jane discusses how she managed to navigate with her son including resources she found most helpful, challenges they faced and the little victories they learned to appreciate. Please join in the conversation!Episode Keywords:agencies, tran
042. Interview: Laura Karp - Functional IEP Goals & Real-world Impact
Send us a Text Message.This week, hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) are joined by Occupational Therapist Laura Karp as the trio discuss the presence of functional IEP goals. The conversation covers defining functional goals, examples of what functional IEP goals could be and the role functional goals can play in the transition process for students with disabilities. There is so much more, so please join in the conversation! Episode Keywords: functional goals, families, IEP, skills,
041. Transition101: Coordinator of Community Service - Symphony of Support
Send us a textHosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) tackle another rung of the transition ladder. This week they discuss the role that families can expect a Coordinator of Community Service will play. They cover what happens at around age 18, discuss the "choice letter" and share out tips and tricks that can help families navigate the process of decision. Join the conversation! Episode Keywords:coordinator, transition, DDA, agency, exit, county, information, letter, service, f
040. Transition101: Rx for Resilience - Navigating Health Care Transition
Send us a textHosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) converse around the discussion of Health Care Transition. They talk about how things change at age 18, differences in adult care versus pediatric care, guardianship as it relates to healthcare and some alternative models that could be helpful. Empower your family with information and let's create a community of support!Episode Keywords:guardianship, transition, doctor, decisions, disabilities, information, form, health care, paren
039. Transition101: Digital Portfolios - Portraits of Progress
Send us a Text Message.And we're back for the NEW YEAR! Happy 2024!Hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) continue their walk up the transition ladder. This time, the discussion covers digital portfolio's and the information they can share for students (and their families). The conversation includes information on informal portfolios that students and families can make themselves to some of the more formal portfolios that school systems are pushing out. Join the conversation!Episode Ke
038. Interview: Amy D'Agati & TerpsEXCEED - the Inclusive College Experience
Send us a Text Message.Please note that we'll be taking break over this holiday season to be with our families. So Happy Holiday's and well talk with you very soon in the New Year!Hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) talk with Amy D'Agati from University of Maryland's TerpsEXCEED program discussing what college can look like for students with intellectual disabilities. The conversation covers a wide range of topics including mentoring, job exploration, campus life and the process of le
037. Well That's...Something & A New Resource!
Send us a textWith the start of the Holidays, hosts Meghan & Patrick ran into scheduling challenges. So, in lieu of a conversation, they're posting about a new useful resource and look forward to more discussions coming very soon. Enjoy & Sorry for the delay!Episode Keywords:information, links, skills, resource, updates, Maryland, transition, localWell That's Helpful - My Life Learning Center (site)Support the showHelp Support the show; https://buymeacoffee.com/p2transitionTo
036. Interview: Maria Paiewonsky & ThinkCollege - Schools for Every Mind
Send us a Text Message.Hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) talk with Maria Paiewonsky from the Institute for Community Inclusion at the University of Massachusetts/Boston. Together, they discuss ThinkCollege, a national effort that works to promote inclusive higher education opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. During the conversation, Maria emphasizes the importance of promoting self-determination, self-advocacy, and independence skills in high
035. Transition101: Career Academies
Send us a textHosts Meghan (Smallwood) & Patrick (Cadigan) discuss career acadamies (within the school system) and what they can offer students. Their discussion covers career research and development, apprenticeships and how best to use career academies for students who don't think college is right for them. Join the conversation.Episode Keywords: students, work, county, apprenticeship, career academies, conversation, school, transition, college, information, employer, guidance counsel
034. Self Direction Deep-dive with CCS Jamie Brodnax_Full Discussion
Send us a Text Message.Bonus: We cut together the two episodes of our deep-dive discussion with Jamie into one; it includes discussion on benefits of self direction versus the traditional Agency model, hiring friends/family, recent challenges around Fiscal Management Services, budgeting, Patrick saving families from acronym-vomit and lots more!Episode Keywords:families, provider, fiscal management, person centered, self directed, support, services, staffing, coordinator, DDA, agencies, challeng
033. Self Direction Deep-dive with CCS Jamie Brodnax Pt. 2
Send us a textHosts Meghan (Smallwood) & Patrick (Cadigan) return and continue their deep-dive discussion into Self Directed Services with Coordinator of Community Service, Jamie Brodnax. Topics include the benefits of Agency model, budgeting, tips/advice when starting services and Patrick saving everyone from more acronym vomit. Join us in the conversation.Episode Keywords:families, provider, fiscal management, person centered, self directed, support, services, staffing, coordinator, DDA,
032. Self Direction Deep-dive with CCS Jamie Brodnax Pt. 1
Send us a Text Message.This week, hosts Meghan (Smallwood) & Patrick (Cadigan) are one again joined by Coordinator of Community Service, Jamie Brodnax. Together they do a deep-dive into talking about Self Directed Services. Topics of discussion include benefits of self direction (versus the traditional Agency model), the ability to hire friends/family, recent challenges around Fiscal Management Services and so much more. Join us in the conversation.Episode Keywords:families, provider, fiscal m
031. Hard Transition Discussions That Are Important
Send us a Text Message.This week, host's Meghan and Patrick discuss some of the topics that prove challenging to parents of students with disabilities. They cover moving students from the diploma-bound track to certificate, making long term goals that lead to uncomfortable truths, and some of the mundane transitions that families experience. Episode Keywords:conversations, families, parents, transition, diploma, hard discussions, disabilities, students, opportunities, certificate, focus, process
030. Transition EXIT YEAR! What To Expect
Send us a textHost's Meghan and Patrick discuss what parents of students with disabilities can expect from the exit year. They cover some of the milestones to watch out for, tips on communicating/collaborating with your Coodinator of Community Service and discuss a timeline of events throughout the school year. Episode Keywords:coordinator, DDA, parents, young adult, conversation, specialist, waiver, exit, resource, funding, families, DORS, agencies, self-directed, Hussman FoundationLinks:S
029. Season TWO, New School Year, New Info
Send us a Text Message.Host's Meghan and Patrick are excited to shift into their second season; they discuss the roots for their passions and focus their discussion on some of the updates that have populated their Post-Secondary Transition website. They drop hints about some of the new things coming up this season and details about future discussions.Episode Keywords:transition, information, families, guardianship, conversations, website, updates, links, resources, helpful Links:Transition Sourc
028. Well That's Helpful - "new" Collection 3
Send us a textHosts Meghan & Patrick ran into a scheduling snafu, so they're posting a "new" collection of useful resources from their website (link found below). Enjoy!Well That's Helpful1. Certificate Track (page)2. Adult Agency Snapshot (page)3. Health Care Transition (page) - Heath Care Timeline (page)4. Guardianship (page)Also visit our Podcast webpage to find links to all of our other discussions; go to www.p2transition.com.Download a transcript of the episode
027. Well That's Helpful - Collection 2
Send us a textHosts Meghan & Patrick are still taking off the month in July. Instead, they're posting a second set of resources from episodes 22 - 25 and put them in one place. Enjoy! Well That's Helpful1. T21Mom.com Podcast2. Shared Support MD3. MD Department of Education- Specially Designed Instruction & Transition Planning (site)4. Disability Rights of Maryland (site)Download a transcript of the episode here. For this episode:Transition music Artist: http://audionautix.com/I
026. Well That's Helpful - Collection 1
Send us a textJust a reminder, hosts Meghan & Patrick are taking off the month in July, so no new content is posting. Instead, they've gathered the resources from episodes 18 - 21 and put them in one place. Enjoy! Well That's Helpful1. Acronyms & Definitions page, Service Coordination: Glossary of Terms2. The Parents Place of Maryland/Resources3. ThinkCollege.net4. SSI/SSDI YouTube playlistDownload a transcript of the episode here. For this episode:Transition music Artist: http
025. Interview: Liz Burley (retired Transition Coordinator) pt. 2
Send us a Text Message.Hosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) continue their discussion with Liz Burley, a transition consultant and retired teacher/transition coordinator with 40 years experience. Liz discusses the integration of students with disabilities into the classroom, the importance of peer influence and considering/planning for the future. Join the conversation!Episode Keywords:parents, young adult, transition, disabilities, families, students, jobs, programs, teachers, convers
024. Interview: Liz Burley (retired Transition Coordinator) pt. 1
Send us a textHosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) interview Liz Burley, a transition consultant and retired teacher/transition coordinator with 40 years experience. Liz discusses how she came to work transition, critical points she hopes parents will consider about a child's future, the importance of independence, and so much more. Join the conversation!Episode Keywords:parents, students, transition, agency, work, families, programs, services, young adult, Maryland, adult, school,
023. Transition101: Guardianship
Send us a Text Message.Hosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) take another rung on the ladder; this time the discussion focuses on guardianship. They introduce the two types of guardianship, discuss possible questions families should consider and the how guardianship effects personal decision-making. DISCLAIMER: This is not designed or intended as legal advice. Guardianship is just one of many tools in the transition toolbox; families need to do the research and may consider alternatives
022. Interview: Betsy Dooley (retired Transition Coordinator)
Send us a textHosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) interview Betsy Dooley, a retired teacher/transition coordinator. Betsy discuss her varied career, some of the difficult topics she had to talk about with families, her approach to having students understand their IEPs and so much more!Episode Keywords:students, transition, conversations, IEP, classes, work, family, coordinator, accommodations, high school, college, career, strengths, movingLinks:Disability Support Services (for college
021. Transition101: Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Send us a textUpdated links 11/9/2024!Hosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) continue climbing the ladder by discussing the complexities of Supplemental Security Income (SSI). They lay out how adults may receive monthly payments, how eligibility starts at age 18 and includes automatic Medicaid. The conversation also covers preparation for SSI applications, the importance of housing agreements, and the role of a representative payee to manage funds. Join the conversation!Episode Keywords:S
020. Interview: Barrier-Free (Lauren & Britt)
Send us a Text Message.Hosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) interview Britt & Lauren Burr, founders of Barrier-Free, a program that incorporates theater arts to enrich the lives of of adults with disabilities. Lauren & Britt discuss the founding of Barrier-Free, why they do what they do, a few of the challenges and so many of their successes. Join us in the conversation!Episode Keywords:folks, neurodivergent, skills, transition, community, theater, program, Carroll County, navigate, wor
019. Transition101: School-based Work Programs
Send us a textUpdated Links 11/2024!Hosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) traverse the ladder; they drill down and do an overview of work programs offered by their school system for both non-diploma and diploma-bound students, the criteria including some of the expectations these programs have for their participants.Please Note: this is by no means intended to be comprehensive, simply just a conversation around some of the programs that one school system offers; of course there will be d
018. Transition101: MD Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS)
Send us a textHosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) move up another rung on the ladder, by giving an overview of the Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS). They discuss the five parts of the pre-employment transition services including the referral process, vocational rehabilitation and some of the differences in supports between agencies. Episode Keywords:student, DORS, counselor, services, transition, individual, disability, vocational rehabilitation, conversations, school, refer
017. Interview: Adult Life Planner Sarah Hammond
Send us a textHosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) interview Sarah Hammond, who works as an Adult Life Planner (under the Autism Waiver) for a private agency. Sarah shares insights on being a resource for families, person-centered planning, aspects of the job she loves in addition to the things that keep her on her toes. Join in on the conversation!Episode Keywordstransition, families, work, support, person-centered planning, role, parents, adult, information, services, resources, clie
016. Interview: Coordinator of Community Service (CCS) Jamie Brodnax
Send us a textHosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) interview Jamie Brodnax who works as a Coordinator of Community Services. Jamie shares her insights into a world that so many families are focused on right now. We discuss what benefits coordinators offer to families, what self-direction looks like from a coordinators perspective, and tips/tricks that families can use to stay organized & stay ahead of the curve. Episode Keywords:support, transition, families, parents, coordinator, p
015. Towson Project: Transition Interview (Supplemental)
Send us a textDue to a scheduling snafu, there will not be a "new" episode, per say. Instead, we've unearthed an artifact from the past; while at Towson, Patrick conducted a project interview with Meghan so as to learn more about transition (please note, Patrick received an A+++ on the project). Fair warning! the audio...sucks, but it's a decent interview and the information is consistent. So, enjoy this blast from the past; Boy oh boy, how far we've come!We will be bac
014. Transition101: MD Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) Pt.02
Send us a textLinks updated 10/2024!Happy New Year!Hosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) continue their climb up the ladder, with Part 2 of their overview of the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA); the state agency that provides funding and services to eligible people with disabilities. They work to explain the difference between entitlement vs eligibility, more information on the differences between waivers and more.Keywords:young adult, DDA, transition, support, coordina
013. Transition101: MD Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) Pt.01
Send us a textLinks Updated 10/2024!Happy New Year!Hosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) climb another rung on the ladder, by giving parents an overview of the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), the state agency that provides funding and services to eligible individuals. Keywords:DDA, young adult, application, coordinator, transition, families, parents, funding, supports, eligible, documentation, assessment, specialist, services, agencies Links:What is Developmental Disa
012. Transition101: Where to Start
Send us a textHosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) give parents an overview of what to expect from the transition process, starting in a student's freshman year of high school and working through to senior year (or the super-senior year). Episode keywords:transition, student, DDA, parents, conversations, SSI, young adult, coordinator, milestones, IEP, work, guardianship, ABLE account, disability, file, participate Links (updated 4/22/2024):- Where to Start- Acronyms
011. Transition101: Timelines
Send us a textHosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) work to explain timeline(s) for students on a Certificate Track. Starting with information about transition fairs, they move to discuss events at age 14 and the proceeding milestones up to age of 21. Episode keywords:DDA, transition, coordinator, age, SSI, agency, soft skills, Allied Sports, day program, self-directed, services, guardianship, school timeline, information, milestones, community, Best Buddies, pandemicLinks:- Howard Coun
010. Transition101: Transition Coordinator
Send us a textUpdated Links 10/2024!This is a re-upload of a previous chapter in keeping with our Transition101 series of informational episodes. #enjoyHosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) work to explain the responsibilities of a Transition Coordinator, including student interviews, progress monitoring, data tracking and collaboration with teachers & service providers. The conversation also touches on the evolving IEP requirements to better integrate transition planning and the cha
009. Transition101: Up the Ladder
Send us a Text Message.Hosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) do a "soft reboot," by using a ladder metaphor and introduce some of the very basics around the transition process for parents and students. They discuss what post-secondary transition means, how middle school plays a part in the transition process and how parents should use research to aid in their understanding of the process. Episode Keywords: transition, information, talk, podcast, IEP, interest, students, prepare,
008. Parent Interview: Selina & Curtis Gray
Send us a textHosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) interview Selina & Curtis Gray; they are foster parents to an adult with autism. They give insight and personal views on their post-secondary experiences; successes, warts and all.Episode Keywords: job, parents, agency, self-direction, teacher, people, client, Enclave, adult, school, work, students, food pantryLinks:- AllAutismTalk Podcast- Self-directed (Maryland)Download a transcript of the episode here.PLEASE NOTE: We a
007. Parent Interview: Pam Paris
Send us a textHosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) interview Pam Paris; she is a special educator and the mother of a child with autism. She gives both background on her son and her views on the post-secondary "process," including trials, tribulations & triumphs.Episode keywords:parents, transition, job, SSI, transition fair, high school, friends, milestones, question, resources Links:- P2Transition Calendar page (for information on upcoming events)- Mission BBQ-
006. Transition Coordinator
Send us a Text Message.Hosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) work to explain the roles and responsibilities of the transition coordinator. Episode keywords:students , transition , parents , coordinator , school , IEP, certificate , CRD , information , goals , resume , diploma , families , teachers , DDA , milestones , collaborate Links:- DDA information page- DORS information page (under construction)Download a transcript of the episode here.We have updated the audio so t
005. Parent Interview: The Nirschls pt.2
Send us a textLinks updated 10/2024!Hosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) continue their interview with Remy and Nick Nirschl, parents of a student with autism. They continue to give insight on their experiences as they prepare for post-secondary transition. We focus on a variety of topics and still find more than a few "rabbit holes." Join us as we walk with this family on their journey. Episode Keywords:parents, talk, resources, decision, guardianship, self-direction, researc
004. Parent Interview: The Nirschls pt.1
Send us a textLinks updated 10/2024!Hosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) interview Remy and Nick Nirschl, parents of a student with autism. Nick and Remy give insight on their current experiences around post-secondary transition. The family discusses a wide variety of topics and find more than a few "rabbit holes." Join us as we walk with this family on their journey. Episode Keywords:SSI, parents, child, autism, school, transition, Maryland, ABA, life, intensive therapy, ques
003. Definitions (for Transition)
Send us a text(Updated audio 4/23/2024)Hosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) discuss a working definition for post-secondary transition for families. They emphasize the importance of starting transition planning at age 14, with middle school teachers initiating discussions about career interests. They highlight the challenges families face, such as dealing with bureaucratic agencies and obtaining Social Security benefits. The podcast aims to provide practical advice and support, with fut
002. Hello World (again)- Host Interview: Patrick Cadigan
Send us a Text Message.Hosts Megan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) introduce themselves and layout the format for the show moving forward: - roughly 15 min. shows released every 2 weeks (should be no more than 30 min.) - plan to introduce/interview families to hear their stories and provide advice/feedback - interview teachers - (if things work out) interview service providers This episode, you will find out about co-host Patrick (Cadigan) and what brought him to working with special
001. Hello World- Host Interview: Meghan Smallwood
Send us a textHosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) introduce their new podcast that focuses on transition for students with disabilities (and their families). They aim for 15-minute bi-weekly episodes featuring discussions on various topics related to preparing students for life after high school. Meghan, with 18 years of experience in the education system, shares her background, including her sister's journey through special education and her own educational path. From her story,