In this episode of Helping Families Go Beyond, host Loryn Carpenter sits down with Chase Pettey, founder of the nonprofit Adventure For All. Chase shares the inspiring journey of building an organization that empowers individuals with exceptionalities through outdoor challenges like biking, hiking, and nature-based growth. From redefining human potential to sparking transformation in both kids and parents, this episode is full of powerful insights and stories that will resonate with caregivers, educators, and advocates alike. Tune in to hear how Adventure For All is helping families push past limits and discover what’s truly possible.

Adventure for All Website:

https://www.adventureforall.org/

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introducing Chase Pettey, Founder/CEO of Adventure for All, plus school updates

(02:45) The story of Adventure for All

(10:30) The training process and the power of positive reinforcement

(13:00) Celebrating every success

(14:30) Thought process of Adventure for All programs

(22:10) Your child is capable of much more

(28:35) Success stories and what’s coming in 2026

(35:50) Chase’s background

(40:41) Learn more about Adventure for All

Join us every month for a new episode of Helping Families Go Beyond. Visit beyondthespectrum.org for more information.

In this special holiday edition of Helping Families Go Beyond the Podcast, host Loryn Carpenter sits down with Dr. Valerie Roth and Dawn Wisniewski to share practical, compassionate strategies for families with neurodivergent learners navigating the busy holiday season. From prepping relatives for sensory-friendly gatherings to handling unsolicited comments with grace, this episode is packed with actionable advice on creating inclusive, joyful celebrations. Whether you're traveling, hosting, or just trying to keep things calm, you'll find thoughtful tips on visual schedules, sensory kits, and self-care for caregivers.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introducing Dr. Valarie Roth & Dawn Wisniewski, School updates, thank you Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation

(03:25) How can we prepare students for travel and meeting extended family?

(08:30) Software, technology, or strategies that might help

(14:50) Sensory friendly environments for holidays

(20:30) Dealing with uninformed comments

(23:30) Dealing with burnout of the holidays

(29:30) Final tips and toolkit

Join us every month for a new episode of Helping Families Go Beyond. Visit beyondthespectrum.org for more information.

In this heartwarming episode of Helping Families Go Beyond, host Loryn Carpenter sits down with professional soccer player and community leader Cade Hagan to explore his latest initiative, Sarasota Unified Sports, an adaptive sports clinic designed for individuals with exceptionalities. Cade shares the story behind his passion project, the challenges of launching it, and the incredible response from the local community. Tune in to learn how inclusive sports build confidence, connection, and resilience, not just for participants, but for families too. If you're seeking ways to help your child thrive through movement and socialization, this episode is for you.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introducing Cade Hagan, Founder, Sarasota Unified Sports and Professional Soccer Player + School Updates

(03:45) What inspired you to start Sarasota Unified Sports?

(05:00) Benefits of adaptive sports clinics

(06:15) Adapting activities to make them more accessible

(07:45) What sports do you focus on in the clinics?

(08:45) Using sports to teach “real world” skills

(10:10) Challenges during the creation phase

(11:40) Success moments that stick out

(14:30) How this benefits the rest of the family

(16:00) Collaborating

(17:45) Who are your clinics open to?

(20:10) How can people get involved?

(20:50) Advice for families

Join us every month for a new episode of Helping Families Go Beyond. Visit beyondthespectrum.org for more information.