Waves of Awareness - WOA it's A Podcast

Welcome to the final episode of Season 10 of Waves of Awareness! We're wrapping up this season with a conversation with the Waves Early Learning leadership team: Gina, Jen and Katie. Our usual co-hosts for this episode are Waves CEO Staci Davis and Waves adult Johnny Sunshine. Johnny shares a few life updates as well as what he's looking forward to this summer. The group then dives into all things Early Learning: why it matters, what referrals look like, some of the best practices they utilize, and a huge milestone Waves Early Learning just hit. Waves considers it a privilege to be able to serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilties (IDD) across all seasons of life, and we're excited to highlight the youngest ones this week! Tune in for important information about Early Intervention, some sweet stories from some of our Early Interventionists themselves, and lots of laughs. Be sure to follow us on socials @waves_serves to keep up with the tips our Early Learning team shares every Tuesday! Stay tuned for updated on Season 11 and the amazing guests WOA will be hosting.  ______________________________________ To learn more about Waves go to: wavesinc.com For volunteer opportunities with Waves go to: https://wavesinc.com/volunteer/ To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about Waves Early Learning, visit: https://wavesinc.com/early-learning-program/ To view Waves Early Learning Tuesday Tips: https://wavesinc.com/early-learning-program/early-learning-tips/

Buckle up -- this week's episode of Waves of Awareness takes place at our Fairview Day Program! We are thrilled to welcome Patti Carroll, former Mayor of Fairview and current Economic Development Officer, to the mic. Our co-hosts this week are Waves CEO Staci Davis, Johnny Sunshine, Hannah Rose, Jimmy, and Vonda. The episode is packed, and it's all about Fairview -- a town many of our folks and staff call home! Whether you've lived in Fariview your whole life, or you've never set foot in Fairview, you won't want to miss this episode. The group chats about Patti's role within the city of Fairview, some upcoming projects she's excited about, and some ways the city helps support its community in the midst of changes and growth. Our adults pick Patti's brain on the aspects of her role she most enjoys as well as some hidden gems in Fairview she wants people to know about! Tune in now to hear more about Fairview from people who cherish it everyday. ______________________________________ To learn more about Waves go to: wavesinc.com For volunteer opportunities with Waves go to: https://wavesinc.com/volunteer/ To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about the city of Fairview, visit: https://www.fairview-tn.org/

This week on WOA we are joined by the Executive Director of Autism TN, Jessica Moore. Co-hosting this episode are our usual hosts, Waves CEO Staci Davis and Johnny Sunshine. Johnny provides some life updates before diving into the conversation with Jessica about her background and work with Autism TN. She shares her full-circle experience of inquiring with Autism TN following Autism and ADHD diagnoses in her family to becoming the Executive Director of the organization. Tune in to hear about the important resources and support Autism TN provides for individuals and families across the Middle Tennessee area as well as some exciting events they have coming up. This episode also involves some humorous moments about "life in the 1900s" and some of Johnny's best movie recommendations. You won't want to miss it - we hope you enjoy listening as much as we enjoyed recording! ______________________________________ To learn more about Waves go to: wavesinc.com For volunteer opportunities with Waves go to: https://wavesinc.com/volunteer/ To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about Autism TN, visit: autismtn.org To learn more about Nashville Sounds accessibility, visit: https://www.milb.com/nashville/ballpark/accessibility If you or someone you know needs support related to Autism, consider reaching out through the Autism TN hotline: call 615-270-2077 or email Support@AutismTN.org

Waves of Awareness welcomes Megan Schwalm, the Executive Director and CEO of the Tennessee Caregiver Coalition, to the mic this week. Our co-hosts for this episode are Waves CEO Staci Davis, Johnny Sunshine, and Tripp. Johnny and Tripp share some short life updates before diving into Megan's background and her work with the Tennessee Caregiver Coalition. This organization provides respite for both independent caregivers and organizations serving individuals with disabilities, just like Waves. Megan shares her personal journey with caregiving as well as the important impact the Tennessee Caregiver Coalition has on caregivers across the state as a whole. She touches on the unique difficulties that nonprofits currently face as a result of federal spending cuts that have impacted the services individuals with disabilities have access to. This episode brings a balance of important discussion and lighthearted conversation, and we just know you'll leave feeling inspired. Tune in now to learn about the essential work being done to support caregivers across the state of Tennessee! ______________________________________ To learn more about Waves go to: wavesinc.com For volunteer opportunities with Waves go to: https://wavesinc.com/volunteer/ To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about the Tennessee Caregiver Coalition, visit: https://tncaregiver.org/ To learn more about special events and was you can get involved with the Tennessee Caregiver Coalition, go to: https://tncaregiver.org/events/ You can find the Tennessee Caregiver Coalition on Facebook: @ Tennessee Caregiver Coalition & Instagram: @tncaregiverco

This week, Waves of Awareness welcomes Melissa Smith, the Executive Director of Backlight Productions and the author of the Friends of Franklin children's book series. Backlight Productions provides opportunities for individuals with disabilities to receive education in the arts and perform lead roles in integrated productions. Staci and Johnny Sunshine co-host this episode alongside first-time co-host, Jeni, one of our Waves residents! Jeni has a leading role in one of Backlight's upcoming performances, The Spongebob Musical, that you can learn more about during this episode. Melissa shares about the journey that led her to create Backlight Productions, what she loves most about her role, and some of the ways she's seen the organization impact its students' lives. We also learn about Melissa's hopes for her Friends of Franklin book series -- that it will spark important conversations for families about disabilities and how to be a friend to all.The Great Changeup is available for purchase through Amazon (see below) and in-person at Backlight Productions events. Tune in to hear about all things Backlight Production, Friends of Franklin and how YOU can support Melissa and her endeavors. You won't want to miss this episode that features singing, laughing, and thoughtful reflection! ______________________________________ To learn more about Waves go to: wavesinc.com For volunteer opportunities with Waves go to: https://wavesinc.com/volunteer/ To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about Backlight Productions go to: https://backlightproductions.org/ You can also find Backlight Productions on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube: @backlightproductions To Learn More About the Friends of Franklin County book series visit: https://www.friendsoffranklincounty.com/ To purchase The Great Changeup, visit: https://a.co/d/d2RhCuQ You can also find Friends of Franklin County on Instagram and Facebook: @fofcbooks

Waves of Awareness welcomes Lauren Morris, founder and executive director of MOVE Inclusive Dance, to the podcast this week. Listen in as Staci, Johnny Sunshine, and Christy co-host this episode to learn about the meaningful work MOVE Inclusive does with dancers of all abilities. Lauren shares her personal journey that led her to creating MOVE Inclusive and the important mission behind the organization. She also highlights how MOVE Inclusive has grown, some of the greatest benefits she's seen dance bring individuals with disabilities, and how MOVE Inclusive ensures an inclusive and accessible environment for all of their dancers. Lauren also shares MOVE Inclusive's newest class specifically for wheelchair users! The group also hears from Johnny Sunshine and Christy as they share their own life updates and what they're looking forward to this summer. Listen in to every story, update, and how YOU can follow along and get involved with MOVE Inclusive and Waves! ______________________________________ To learn more about Waves go to: wavesinc.com For volunteer opportunities with Waves go to: https://wavesinc.com/volunteer/ To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about MOVE Inclusive Dance go to: https://www.moveinclusivedance.com/ For more information about their upcoming Get MOVE'n 5K, visit: https://runsignup.com/Race/TN/Nashville/GetMoven5k You can also find MOVE Inclusive Dance on Instagram and Facebook: @moveinclusivedance

This week WOA welcomes Audrey Kidd, the executive director of Saddle Up! Staci and Johnny Sunshine co-host the episode to learn about Saddle Up and the amazing impact it makes through equine therapy. Audrey outlines her personal journey with Saddle Up! as well as the background and legacy of Saddle Up! as an organization. She also highlights some of the important and customized programs that Saddle Up! provides, including a program that was the first of its kind created with Waves and is now in place with eight other organizations. Everyone enjoys listening to the evolution of Saddle Up! and Audrey's favorite memories with Waves adults and other amazing participants with Saddle Up! who have worked hard to achieve their dreams. Listen as Johnny shares about an exciting event that he is looking forward to and other life updates. Tune into the full episode and hear all the inspiring details and how you can get involved with both organizations. ______________________________________ To learn more about Waves go to: wavesinc.com For volunteer opportunities with Waves go to: https://wavesinc.com/volunteer/ To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about Saddle Up! go to: https://www.saddleupnashville.org/ For information about their upcoming Music Country Grand Prix event, visit: https://musiccountrygrandprix.com/ You can also find Saddle Up! on Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube: @saddleupnashville

This episode features Gary, the brother of Jeff, who is currently a recipient of Waves Fairview Day Program. Jeff has been involved with Waves for the past 46 years and Gary shares his experience has been during this time. Listen to Gary shares several stories from their childhood and adult lives as well as the meaningful impact Waves has had on Jeff and on their family as a whole. Alongside Gary are our regular hosts, Waves CEO Staci Davis and Waves adult Johnny Sunshine. To highlight Gary's walk with Waves in Fairview, this episode is recorded at our Fairview Day Program and welcomes our other adult recipients: Hannah, Jimmy, Eric, Roger and Adam. Listen to the whole group ask Gary questions and share their own life updates! Follow along amazing stories as well as some powerful advice from Gary to those facing similar situations and wondering what the future of someone they know with IDD will look like. Prepare to smile, laugh and maybe even shed a tear when you listen to this episode. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves go to: wavesinc.com For volunteer opportunities with Waves go to: https://wavesinc.com/volunteer/ To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/

This week WOA welcomes Tish Etter, the new Adult Services Director at Waves. Alongside Tish is Jen Choate (Waves Early Interventionist), Staci Davis, Christy Webb, and John Lynch to chat about the Adult Services and Early Learning Departments at Waves. Tish offers a unique perspective to the full lifespan of support offered at Waves as her son currently receives developmental therapy from Jen through Waves Early Learning Program. Tish shares her experience in discovering she needed Early Intervention support and how Waves has supported Tish and her son. Jen also shares her experience in providing support for Tish's son and how through developmental therapy they have been able to witness growth over the year. The group discusses the importance of early intervention and then the continued support of in adulthood that is offered through Waves Adult Services. Listen to the full story and subscribe to Waves of Awareness for episode drop notifications! ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves go to: wavesinc.com For volunteer opportunities with Waves go to: https://wavesinc.com/volunteer/ To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/

Waves is kicking off Season 10 with Brandy Blanton from the Circle of Giving! Christy Webb, Johnny Sunshine, and Staci Davis host the podcast this episode, ready to learn more about Brandy and share their own updates. Brandy Blanton is the President and CEO of the Circle of Giving, a nonprofit fostering philanthropy and uplifting local non-profits. Their mission is to enrich our local community through engaging experiences and curated events, who proceeds support non-profits benefiting Williamson County. This year the Circle of Giving will be launching the Carousel of Dreams by Ken Means where residents and tourists them the opportunity to uplift others, while experiencing the timeless joy of carousel rides, complemented by curated experiences and events at The Factory at Franklin. Listen to Brandy share about the origin of the Circle of Giving, how the Carousel of Dreams came to Franklin, and what our community can look forward to with this new venture! We also hear life updates from Christy Webb and Johnny Sunshine as well as updates on Waves as a whole from Staci Davis, CEO of Waves. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves go to: wavesinc.com For volunteer opportunities with Waves go to: https://wavesinc.com/volunteer/ To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn about the Circle of Giving visit: https://www.thecircleofgiving.org/home

For our Season 9 finale, WOA welcomes Mackenzie Wasner from Mack Hatcher Events to discuss her company and all things Christmas! Along with Johnny Sunshine, Matt Moore, Tripp Abney, and Staci Davis, the group dives into questions for Mackenzie. We learned about their event rental company which began in 2023 and continues to grow to this day. Originally in the music industry, Mackenzie first became familiar with Waves through our Brews & Grooves fundraising event where she sang for the event. Over time, however, it became obvious to Mackenzie and her husband that their passion for events would be the direction they would take in their career. Listen to Johnny Sunshine share his joy when he finds out Mackenzie has a special surprise coming in the new year! The group also shares their favorite Christmas traditions, songs, and goals for the new year. Listen to the full episode and don't forget to give Waves of Awareness a 5-star review! As we wrap up Season 9 of Waves of Awareness, we want to thank everyone who made this season a huge success.

This week on Waves of Awareness, Alecia Talbott joins us from the Down Syndrome Association of Middle Tennessee (DSAMT). Alecia is the current Executive Director of DSAMT and an advocate for the Down syndrome community. Alecia tells us her personal journey as a mother to a son with down syndrome and the experiences she's gone through that have furthered her passion as an advocate for inclusion and acceptance for those with Down syndrome. Matt, Norris, and John all take turns asking Alecia about the mission of DSAMT, key programs they help bring the community closer together, and what kind of message DSAMT hopes listeners take from this conversation. Listen to the full interview, including updated from Matt, Norris, John, and Staci on their life and the Waves community. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com To learn more about the Down Syndrome Association of Middle Tennessee, visit: https://somethingextra.org/ To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness Follow Waves of Awareness on Instagram at @waves_awareness_pod To learn about Spread The Positive go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/

The Executive Director of Jacob's Audible, Brad Meshell, joins Waves of Awareness for this week's episode. Brad founded Jacob's Audible after his son, Jacob, was diagnosed with Autism and Jacob found himself going through the same journey many parents in similar situations find themselves going through. Jacob shares with Trent, John, Matt, and Tripp the mission and goals of Jacob's Audible. From fundraising walks to collaborations with local businesses, Jacob shares his focus to spread the mission of Jacob's Audible and connect the community with resources that have changed his family's life. Listen to the full story, including updates with the WOA team as we move through the busy holiday season. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com To learn more about Jacob's Audible go to: https://www.jacobsaudible.org/ To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness Follow Waves of Awareness on Instagram at @waves_awareness_pod To learn about Spread The Positive go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/

This week Waves of Awareness celebrates Thanksgiving! Join Staci, John, Matt, and Norris as the group chats about everything they are thankful for including our favorite holiday food items! From Staci's favorite Thanksgiving memory in Massachusetts to a heated pumpkin or pecan debate the group fills the table with talk of thanks. Norris announces what he's most looking forward to this holiday season and Staci shares more details on the Franklin Christmas Day Parade that Waves will be participating in on December 7th. Staci also shares Waves' participation in the Festival of Trees for Disability Awareness with The Arc of Williamson County. Listen to Matt share what he's thankful for and John throw out a few shout-outs to our furry family at Waves. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com To learn more about the Franklin Christmas Parade, go to: https://franklinis.com/event/the-franklin-christmas-parade-presented-by-downtown-franklin-rotary/ To learn more about the Festival of Trees, go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-festival-of-trees-tickets-1051973640477?aff=oddtdtcreator To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness Follow Waves of Awareness on Instagram at @waves_awareness_pod To learn about Spread The Positive go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/

This week Waves of Awareness welcomes Christina and Kathy from The Downtown Franklin Rotary Club. Alongside these ladies, we have Norris Peterson, Tripp Abney, John Lynch, and Staci Davis. Together the group learns about the Rotary Club and its mission to make our community and the world a better place by living the Rotary International motto of “Service Above Self.” Our WOA hosts take turns asking Christina and Kathy how the Rotary Club plans a role in bringing the Franklin community together. Christina and Cathy each share how the Rotary Club connects the community through events like the Franklin Christmas Parade. The Franklin Christmas parade is an annual event held the first Saturday in December that showcases our community and brings everyone together to celebrate the season. Waves will be participating in this year's Franklin Christmas parade, creating a float that matches the parade's theme of "Miracle on Main St." Norris also takes the opportunity to share his support for the troops and various groups he has been involved with who have participated in the parade in the past. Listeners find out how they can support the Rotary Club and various events hosted by the Rotary Club for the community. Listen to the full episode for a deep dive into the Rotary Club, their amazing sponsors, and the organizations that will help make the Franklin Christmas Parade a success! ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com To learn more about the Downtown Franklin Rotary Club, go to: https://downtownfranklinrotary.com/about/To learn more about the Franklin Christmas Parade, go to: https://franklinis.com/event/the-franklin-christmas-parade-presented-by-downtown-franklin-rotary/ To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness Follow Waves of Awareness on Instagram at @waves_awareness_pod To learn about Spread The Positive go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/

This week's Waves of Awareness episode features Sasha, a mother receiving Early Intervention services from Waves Early Learning Department. Alongside Sasha is Jen Choate, her Early Interventionist with Waves, to chat with the group about how families can help their child and family prepare for the holiday season. John, Matt, and Tripp all ask Sasha about her family story and how her family has had to adjust their holiday expecations over the years for everyone to enjoy the season. Jen shares what her experience as an early interventionist supporting various families has shown her the best tips for families to utilize during the season. John, Matt, and Tripp also take turns sharing their experiences during holiday season and the activities they look forward to the most. Listen to Sasha's amazing story with her family and how she has learned to make the holidays enjoyable for everyone in her family. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com For volunteer opportunities with Waves, go to: https://wavesinc.com/volunteer/ To learn more about Waves Early Learning, go to: https://wavesinc.com/early-learning-program/ Follow Waves Early Learning on Instagram at @earlylearningwaves To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness Follow Waves of Awareness on Instagram at @waves_awareness_pod To learn about Spread The Positive go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/

As we dive into the holiday season, this podcast episode welcomes Katie McDonald to discuss how families can approach tech over this busy time of year. Katie is a Lead Early Interventionist with Waves and has several years experience working with families to maintain some normalcy while also embracing a holiday vacation. Together with Tripp, Matt, John, and Staci Davis the group listens to Katie share her tips that families can use with their children. Whether it's receiving tech gifts or balancing how much time children spend with tech over the holidays, every family has struggled finding the balance. Katie offers tips on how to set limits, how parents can incorporate tech, and strategies that can help make the holiday season a success! When it comes to gifts, Katie even shares her favorite tech gift that children can benefit from. The guys all ask Katie great questions that help listeners understand the advice she has and her experience in the area. Listen to the full episode for details. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com For volunteer opportunities with Waves, go to: https://wavesinc.com/volunteer/ To learn more about Waves Early Learning, go to: https://wavesinc.com/early-learning-program/Follow Waves Early Learning on Instagram at @earlylearningwaves For more info on Katie's tech recommendation, go to: https://us.tonies.com/pages/homepage To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness Follow Waves of Awareness on Instagram at @waves_awareness_pod To learn about Spread The Positive go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/

This week the guys meet with Staci to provide in-depth life updates! Between Tripp, Matt, and Johnny Sunshine we hear a conversation full of twists and turns. Staci chats with John about his favorite tips recently, his trips to Gentry Farms. John continues to discuss the events that have kept him busy this October. Matt shares with the group his favorite Best Buy moments, what he's been working on with Backlight, and upcoming trips we can look forward to getting updates on! Staci asks Tripp what he's got planned for the holidays, how his job with Publix is going, and what his thoughts on the podcast are. Listen to the full episode including Tripp's ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves go to: wavesinc.com For volunteer opportunities with Waves go to: https://wavesinc.com/volunteer/ To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness Follow Waves of Awareness on Instagram at @waves_awareness_pod To learn about Spread The Positive go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/

This week's episode of Waves of Awareness featured the Waves Fairview Day Program. Together with Staci Davis and Johnny Sunshine, the group discusses all things Halloween. From Fairview we have Stephanie, Hannah, Roger, Eric, and Jimmy ready to share their thoughts on Halloween. From favorite movies to worst Halloween candy the group shares what they think Halloween is all about. When it comes to Halloween activities, the group agrees that Fairview's Halloween Party has everyone beat. The Fairview Day Program Manager, Misty Bowker, is known for going all out with Halloween decor, music, and snacks for everyone to enjoy. Staci goes around the table finding out what everyone will be for Halloween and what everyone has been up to while WOA was on break. Listen to the full episode and share your own answers to these Halloween questions with WOA! ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves go to: wavesinc.com For volunteer opportunities with Waves go to: https://wavesinc.com/volunteer/ To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness Follow Waves of Awareness on Instagram at @waves_awareness_pod To learn about Spread The Positive go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/

Waves of Awareness is back for Season 9 with special interviews from behind the scenes at Brews & Grooves. Brews & Grooves was Waves' 4th Annual Fundraising event, with live performances and an auction that supports Waves programs supporting adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Listen to our WOA Producer Trent Denson with Spread The Positive sit and interview guests and share their experience with Waves. From our CEO to local companies who have volunteered with Waves, Trent gathers passionate stories about the impact Waves and those we support have made on the community around us. This episode also features local businesses throughout Williamson County including Games To Go and The Workman Group. Listen to the full episode and share your favorite interview! ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves go to: wavesinc.comFor volunteer opportunities with Waves go to: https://wavesinc.com/volunteer/ To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ Find Jim Littlefield's book Seeing Abilities at: https://a.co/d/18x7VTc To listen to Jim Littlefield's Seeing Ability Podcast go to: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/seeing-ability-podcast/id1660807539 For information on The Workman Group go to: https://workmangroup.kw.com/ To rent Games To Go for your own event go to: https://gamestogonashville.com/

Season eight's finale of Waves of Awareness welcomes Ashley Hart to the table. Together with John, Matt, and Staci, the group dives into conversation together covering everything from life updates to the impact volunteering has on everyone involved. Ashley has volunteered with Waves, Inc. through Cropssoint Church for years and has done an immeasurable amount of good for the community. From working on the homes a part of the Waves, Inc. Residential Program to spending time decorating Waves' Day Programs for the holidays, Ashley has organized countless groups through Crosspoint church to make a positive impact at Waves. Matt picks Ashley's brain on her journey from beginning volunteer work to what she feels the impact made through volunteering can do for everyone involved. John also dives in and shares how different volunteer groups have helped work on his home in the Semi-Independent Residential Program with Waves. From planting a garden to clearing a walking path, there is no act a volunteer can do that is too small to make an impact.  To learn more about volunteering through Crosspoint go to: https://crosspoint.tv/get-involved/ To learn more about volunteering with Waves go to: https://wavesinc.com/volunteer/ or email emontelongo@wavesinc.com

This week we are joined by the Program Director of Backlight Productions, Jordan Scott. Jordan has been with Backlight for 5 years, starting first as a teacher and then growing into her current position as her passion for Backlight and its mission has grown. Matt Morre, John Lynch, and Staci Davis gather with Jordan to learn about Backlight Productions and what the nonprofit strives to do for the community. As a seasoned performer with Backlight Productions, Matt shares his love for Backlight Productions and his experience in various roles. As a nonprofit passionate about the arts, their mission is to "Providing opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to gain education in the arts and perform significant roles in integrated performances, enabling them to enhance their social skills through artistic expression and grow in confidence both on and off the stage." Jordan also shares Backlight's newest venture, Backlight Kids. Offering classes for 11 and under, Backlight will be giving kids with IDD the opportunity to be introduced to performing arts. The group discusses everything from Backlight Productions to upcoming events for both Backlight Productions and Waves. Matt shares with the group what he'll be singing at the Brews & Grooves event on Sept. 19th, while Johnny Sunshine takes the conversation to the wildest animals in a safari. Listen to full episode and find out which animals Johnny thinks the group doesn't stand a chance against.  To learn more about Backlight Productions, go to: https://backlightproductions.org/ To sign up for classes with Backlight Productions, go to: https://backlightproductions.org/classes/ To learn more about Backlight Kids, go to: https://backlightproductions.org/blkids/ To learn more about Waves' Brews & Grooves event, go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brews-grooves-a-concert-benefitting-waves-tickets-971143244587?aff=oddtdtcreator

For families that care for a member with an intellectual or developmental disabilities, ensuring your child has an advocate after you are no longer able to is a top priority. At The Arc Davidson County & Greater Nashville they have created a new program centered around supporting families as they plan the care for their child after they are gone. Sharing about this program is Sheila Moore, the Executive Director of The Arc Davidson & Greater Nashville, and Donna Bryant, the Director of Program Development. Together with Staci, John, and Hannah Rose, the group listen to Donna and Sheila share how this program came to life and what exactly it means for a family. The Arc Lifelong Advocacy Program ensures a parent that their son or daughter will have an advocate for life. Listen to the full episode and learn if you or someone you know would like to be connected with this program. To learn more about The Arc Davidson County & Greater Nashville, follow the link here To learn more about The Arc Life Advocacy Program contact Sheila at smoore@arcdc.org

Can you guess what this week's episode covers? Staci, Eric, John, and Matt come together to talk about their favorite scenes from The Sandlot! Eric kicks the episode off with a re-cap for John and Matt, reminding the table about his favorite scenes and the characters that made The Sandlot great. Eric and Staci chat about the scenes in the movie that made it impactful. The group plays Fact or Fiction, learning about the details that came together to make The Sandlot one of a kind! John shares what's close to his heart including how his roommate and neighbors are doing. Matt gives some big life updates including his feature on the radio where he shares about his time with Backlight Productions. Listen to the full episode to catch the entire conversation!

This week of Waves of Awareness features Debby Rainey from United Way and our entire Fairview crew. WOA sets up shop at the Waves Fairview Day Program with Stephanie, Hannah, Jimmy, and Eric to chat about new projects United Way has on underway. Debby shares news of the counties United Way has expanded to support, while getting serenaded by Eric. The crew also shares life updates covering everything from music, The Simpsons, Justin Bieber, Meals on Wheels, and the upcoming Food Truck Friday being hosted in Fairview. Listen to the full episode to catch Eric's musical debut and Debby Rainey's updates on all the ways United Way continues to support its community.  For details on the Fairview Food Truck Friday, click here: https://www.facebook.com/share/WGnNUUi7ih64zrEj/ For details on United Way, click here: https://www.unitedway.org/our-impact/mission

The end of summer vacation is coming close for a lot of families, which makes it a perfect time for our Waves Early Interventionists Cheryl Vooris and Kate Harris to join this week's episode of WOA! Cheryl and Kate join Staci and Matt at the table to discuss how parents can help the transition from a summer schedule to a new school routine. Matt asks the Interventionists everything from scheduling tips, specific areas that can be difficult, to tools and resources caregivers can use to make the transition positive for their child. Cheryl and Kate provide so many useful strategies, tools, and techniques they've developed through their years of experience as Early Interventionists working with a range of behaviors. The group even highlights the importance of parents preparing themselves for a summer transition, keeping in mind that it isn't only the child facing changes.  Keeping on theme, Matt gives us the best updates on how his summer has been going and exciting things to come! Listen to the full episode and subscribe to Waves of Awareness for future updates.  To access the backpack giveaway mentioned in the episode, follow the link here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/vVVEAcFDLBzfB6pd/?mibextid=WC7FNe To hear Kate's story with her son Hayden, follow the link here: https://wavesofawareness.libsyn.com/woa-lets-talk-about-adoption For details on Best Buy's tax free sale, follow the link here: https://corporate.bestbuy.com/shop-your-states-2024-tax-free-sale-at-best-buy/ For details on Tennessee's tax free criteria, follow the link here: https://www.tn.gov/revenue/taxes/sales-and-use-tax/sales-tax-holiday/sth-traditional.html

Waves of Awareness gathers around the table to hear the heartfelt story of Brittany and her daughter Isabella (Bella). Brittany and Bella have been receiving services with Waves Early Learning for 3 years and going through an inspiring journey of hard work and perseverance. Staci and Co-Host Tripp Abney are joined by Waves Early Learning Director Gina Wilson and Waves Early Interventionist Deana Rothwell, who supports Brittany and Bella. Together the group listens to Brittany share her impactful journey through pregnancy with Bella and the fears and trials Brittany went through to make it to the hospital. Brittany shares her experience giving birth to Bella, the diagnosis she received for Bella telling her every struggle Bella may face in life, and how that has shaped Brittany as a mother today. The courage and strength Brittany has faced through motherhood is inspiring to everyone at the table and, as Brittany's story merges with Waves Early Learning, the group discusses with importance for a strong team connection. The group listens to how the support of Deana and her service coordinator was the support she needed to advocate for her daughter. Listen to Brittany, Deana, Gina, Staci, and Tripp all discuss the powerful story Brittany shares and how Early Learning and TEIS are important to families going through similar journeys. If you believe your child may need services with TEIS, go to: https://www.tn.gov/content/tn/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/teis.html For more information on Waves Early Learning, go to: https://wavesinc.com/early-learning-program/

We wouldn't have an amazing season without an episode in Fairview! Staci, Matt, and Eric take a trip to the Waves Fairview Day Program for episode three. There we were welcomed by Adam, Stephanie, and Hannah for a whirlwind conversation that spans everything from favorite movies and TV shows to the Waves, upcoming Brews and Grooves event on Sept. 19th. Eric shares his excitement for the upcoming Despicable Me movie which leads Hannah to share about her newest figurine and facts she just learned. Adam makes his presence known throughout the episode with a signing debut, priming everyone to talk about the upcoming Brews and Grooves event with Waves. Stephanie shares her passion for Justin Bieber, inspiring Eric to pick a Bieber song for his performance! Listen to the full episode now for every exciting turn of the conversation.  To view Waves' upcoming events head to wavesinc.com/events for a list of future events scheduled.

This week's episode features Kaci Fisher with Northwestern Mutual. Kaci works in Financial Planning at Northwestern and has personally been involved with the IDD community through her son. Matt, Eric, and Staci gather together to hear Kaci share her story about her family and personal journey over the years. Eric picks Kaci's brain about how she found herself in the world of Financial Planning. Kaci specializes in Special Needs Financial Planning, allowing her to help the community that has played a key role in her family's journey. As a parent who had to manage the financial stress that can come with accessing all the support needed for her child, Kaci is passionate about helping others navigate this process and find resources to relieve that financial stress. Kaci shares the #1 advice she would give families or caregivers who are looking to establish financial success. Listen to the entire conversation including life updates from Matt and Eric!  To contact Kaci for your own Financial Planning, you can contact her directly at kaci.fisher@nm.com or visit the Northwestern Mutual site at northwesternmutual.com

Friends of Franklin Park's Development Director, Scout Hardin, joins this week's episode of Waves of Awareness. Staci Davis and co-host Matt Moore get to know Scout, how she came to build a relationship with the IDD community, and what Friends of Franklin Parks has in store for the future. Scout shares her past working at a non-profit supporting adults with disabilities and how it educated her on the world of IDD in an amazing way.  Having joined Friends of Franklin Parks in the fall of 2023, Scout has enjoyed connecting with the community and learning about the rich history associated with their parks. Looking to the future, Friends of Franklin Parks has been undergoing their Ellie G project which will become the first inclusive playground in Franklin, Tennessee. The park will be in memory of Elliot Grace, who was born with Rhizomelic Chondrodysplasia Punctata (RCDP) and passed away at the age of 4 in 2019. Ellie G received services through Waves and has continued to impact so many families and individuals, being an example of strength and joy. The group discusses how Ellie G's playground is progressing now and when we can hope to celebrate its opening. Listen to this week's and learn how parks impact the community and how Friends of Franklin Parks aims to create more that will help make an inclusive community.  Listen to Waves of Awareness past episode with Elli G's mom here. To learn more about Friends of Franklin Parks and how you can get involved, follow the link here.

This episode features the State Director of Enabling Technology, Milton Neuenschwander, from the Department of Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities (DIDD). Milton joins Waves of Awareness with Staci David, Matt Moore, and Marci Cohen to discuss what Enabling Technologies is and how it impacts individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities (IDD). Matt asks everything from what Milton loves most about Enabling Technologies to where he thinks it's going in the future. The group discuss Virtual Reality and Artificial Intelligence, how it's already integrated in today's society, and how it has helped those with IDD live more independently today. Staci shares how Milton played a key role in the grant that made Waves of Awareness come to life! Listen to Matt share life updates and the whole group discuss superpowers on this week's episode of Waves of Awareness.

Waves Fairview Day Program joins another episode of Waves of Awareness for National Down Syndrome Day! Staci Davis leads the table with Hannah, Eric, Roger, Stephanie, Adam, and Matt "The Man" Moore into a great conversation. First, the group discusses "Stereotypes" and what they can look like not only in the IDD community but everywhere around us. The group then dives into National Down Syndrome Day and what important message that lies behind it. Listen to updates from the Fairview team including Roger's newfound love for cats after volunteering at the Williamson County Animal Center! Matt shares how his job at Best Buy came about and how he's doing now. Hannah discovers a new interest and potential work venture, Adam and Stephanie talk about their relationship, and Eric makes sure the conversation stays entertaining with his favorite jokes. This episode is full of life, humor, and spreading awareness. 

Lance Jordan picks Dr. Harris' brain on how parents can first start gaining information on receiving Adult Services and where to even begin. Together the group go over where to gain information, what makes Adult Services so important, and how those services have evolved to become focused on the individual.

Staci takes the discussion into everyone's favorite movies, the movies we love and the movies we hate. The conversation dives deeper into how losing loved ones makes you value the good memories you have across the board. Roger takes the mic and leads us into his favorite topic ever, Elvis Presley. 

Along with Staci Davis, Gina Wilson, Matt Moore, and Eric Wilson, the group begins by hearing Chelsey's story. Chelsey's daughter, Hazel, received a diagnosis of Down Syndrome during pregnancy and began receiving services from Waves Early Learning not long after Hazel was born. Because of Covid, however, Hazel's first sessions were done through a screen (as many families were during this time). By the time Hazel was able to transition to in-person sessions, there were still many goals set for her. 

What is a Holistic Approach and how does it apply to Adult Services and Early Learning? This week's Waves of Awareness episode welcomes back Gina and Marci from the Waves Early Learning and Adult Services Departments to discuss how a Holistic Approach can positively impact the individuals Waves supports. Waves Development and Community Relations Director, Staci Davis, leads the table alongside Christy Webb, Eric Wilson, and Matt Moore to shed some light on Holistic Approaches and how it is incorporated into the services Waves offers. Learn about a person-centered approach to IDD and how looking at an individual as a whole can help them achieve their goals. Christy, Eric, and Matt share their own experience with Waves and what their favorite moments have been with Waves. Finish the episode by hearing our guests dream big and answer what everyone would do with Waves if money and resources weren't an issue!

This episode marks the start of season 7 for Waves of Awareness! To kick start the season, we welcome guests from both Waves Early Learning and Adult Services Departments to speak on goals. Gina Wilson and Marci P. Cohen join the table alongside our host Trent Denson. Additionally, WOA welcomes Matt "the Man" Moore, Eric Wilson, Tripp Abney, and Christy Web! With the table packed, the group dives into their goals for the year and what they hope to work on in the coming months. We hear everything from work goals to personal health, as well as a few off-the-mic tips from our season 6 regular Izzy! Gina and Marci also share their personal goals as well as what the Early Learning and Adult Services Departments aim to focus on this year. The group chats about the importance of goals and how setting them gives us something to look forward to and focus on. Enjoy the first episode of the season and let us know if it inspired you to add anything to your own goals!

When it comes to treatment for Autism, WOA welcomes Jenny Baggett to share the best, current information for you to learn from. Jenny Baggett works with Vanderbilts Treatment and Research Institute for Autism Spectrum Disorders (TRIAD) as a Behavioral Analyst. Jenny is joined by Waves Early Learning Director Gina Wilson to talk about their many collaborations together over the years, having supported the same families and assisted their growth. Trent and Matt listen to Gina and Jenny discuss how research and treatment have evolved over the years for autism and how some of the treatments would be useful for anyone to use. Listen to Matt give life updates after his big Cinderella debut and what's coming up down the line. This podcast is made possible through partnerships with Spread the Positive, TN's Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, and the Community Foundation of Middle TN. If you like what you hear, share it with a friend and leave a review on any streaming service. Got an idea for a guest, email us at podcast@wavesinc.com.