Episodes

  • Ep 412 - Dr.Jed Baker: Social Skills Are Everything
    May 19 2025

    Join the Interactive Journey for an insightful conversation with Dr. Jed Baker, a leading expert in social skills training! Discover the journey behind his influential "pink and purple book" and his practical approaches to helping individuals navigate social challenges. Learn about his views on everything impacting social functioning to his upcoming Social Skills Summit.

    https://www.socialskillstrainingproject.com/about

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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Ep. 411 Authenticity & Advocacy: Ray's Journey
    May 12 2025

    Meet Raymond Wos, Jr. a neurodivergent individual with ADHD and autism, who shares his experiences navigating life and education. Ray discusses the importance of accommodations, like 504 plans, and expresses concern over potential legislative changes that could impact access to these supports. He highlights the significance of self-advocacy for students with disabilities and describes his efforts to create a Disability Student Union at Rowan University. The conversation covers topics such as societal inequalities, advocacy strategies, and the need for greater awareness of disability rights.

    Check out all the things Ray is up to

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishability?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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    50 mins
  • Ep. 410 : From Mainland to Movie Sets - Emma's Story
    May 5 2025

    Join us for an inspiring conversation with Emma and her mom, Shana, as they share their journey navigating life with autism! From day program to being apart of the 'Ezra' Cast , discover the power of acceptance, advocacy, and finding your place on the spectrum. Plus, hear Shana's invaluable advice for parents and teachers on creating inclusive environments. Get ready for laughs, insights, and a whole lot of heart!

    Ezra - STREAMING NOW

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    53 mins
  • Ep. 409 ACSSSD - Bridging the Gap between Law Enforcement, Disabilities, and Community Support
    Apr 28 2025

    On this episode, Erin Lichtenwalner tells us about the development and implementation of a program designed to educate law enforcement and other first responders about interacting with individuals with disabilities. It details how a specific incident involving a student with autism prompted the creation of specialized training. The training aims to equip officers with the knowledge and tools to de-escalate situations, understand sensory sensitivities, and communicate effectively with people who have a range of disabilities. This has led to positive outcomes, including officers seeking guidance and using new strategies in real-world scenarios. The initiative has expanded to include crisis intervention team (CIT) training and the creation of a special needs registry.

    https://www.acsssd.net/

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    46 mins
  • Ep. 408 Atlantic County Special Services : Impact Beyond the Classroom - Part 1
    Apr 21 2025

    Meet Director of Instruction, Programs & Services, Erin Lichtenwalner and explore the innovative world of the Atlantic County Special Services School District, where acceptance and understanding create a one-of-a-kind learning environment. This isn't your typical school; it's a place where individualized support, community partnerships, and a sky's the limit vision are helping students of all abilities thrive. In this episode, listeners can expect to hear how the school is redefining special services through its commitment to community outreach, individualized programming, and creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all students.

    https://www.acsssd.net/

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    31 mins
  • Ep.407 Karly Forman and the Story of Raise the Bar
    Apr 14 2025

    Karly Forman Cohen shares her personal journey and the story of Raise the Bar, a nonprofit providing support and community for families with children with disabilities living in Camden, NJ. Learn about their programs and the importance of raising expectations and promoting inclusivity.

    https://raisethebarnj.org/

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    44 mins
  • Ep.406 Healing Through Play with Demi Banchs
    Apr 7 2025

    Ever wondered what it's like inside a Children Trauma Healing Center? We take you on the road with us to Turnersville, New Jersey, to visit Demi Banch and her practice. Demi shares her journey into therapy, the importance of understanding trauma beyond the event itself, and the power of play. Get ready for an insightful conversation about child-led play therapy, the neurobiology of play, and practical tips for supporting children and their families

    https://www.childrenstraumahealingcenter.com/

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    59 mins
  • Ep. 405 The Lives They Choose: The Arc of Atlantic County's Impact
    Mar 31 2025

    In this episode, "The Interactive Journey" welcomes Mary Ry Moyer and Kirby Reid from The Ark of Atlantic County to share stories about supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Discover how The Ark empowers people to live fulfilling lives through residential programs, adult day habilitation, family services, and more. Learn about volunteer opportunities, membership benefits, and upcoming events. Find out how you can get involved and make a difference in your community!

    https://thearcatlantic.org/

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    56 mins