Journey Skills Podcast

In this episode, host Debra Caldow reflects on the value of making New Year's resolutions. She discusses some of the reasons they fail, including the focus on making dramatic changes without considering daily life demands.  She suggests that rather than relying on the symbolic significance of January 1st, sustainable change requires gradual habit formation, realistic goal setting, and flexibility. Debra also talks about the importance of focusing on small, achievable actions, and celebrating progress over perfection.

In this episode, Debra Caldow continues her conversation with Rhiannon Gogh, a specialist financial planner, discussing the challenges around deciding who will support your child when you are no longer around. She goes on to talk about the importance of contingency planning, including the role of professional trustees vs. family members. Rhiannon also explains some of the consequences of inadequate planning and why specialized financial strategies are a necessity to protect the future of our children.  Planning With Love Book  Carers Academy – Free Resources  

In this episode Debra Caldow talks to Rhiannon Gogh, a specialist financial planner, who talks about the importance of planning for the future of young people with additional needs. She discusses estate planning, including creating trust funds and the role of life insurance policies as well as the importance of ensuring plans are tailored to each person's unique needs. Rhiannon also explains the framework she uses to help families develop comprehensive plans which reflect their different financial situations.  Planning With Love Book Carers Academy – Free Resources  

In this episode, host Debra Caldow discusses the balance between providing support and fostering independence. Drawing on her personal experience, she reflects on the challenges of co-dependency, the emotional journey of letting go, and the importance of allowing our children to become their own advocates and problem-solvers. Debra addresses the need to sometimes re-assess our motivations behind wanting to protect our children and the need to give them the space to make mistakes and grow. 

 In this episode Debra Caldow talks to Julie Walker, from Esteamed Coffee, who explains how they provide employment and social opportunities for young people with additional needs. She discusses why the cafe's physical location and community involvement play a crucial role in its success. Julie also discusses the future of Esteamed, which will focus on developing partnerships with employers and expanding their visibility through initiatives like a coffee cart.  https://www.esteamedcoffee.com/  

In this episode, host Debra Caldow explores the concept of independence and why it might be time to redefine how we see independence and include dignity as a core component. She talks about why focusing on small, achievable goals and adaptable are useful strategies in helping developing independence.  Debra also talks about the importance of understanding that independence is not a one-size-fits-all concept, or about doing everything alone, but is about having the right support to make choices about what personal independence looks like.

In this episode, Debra Caldow continues her conversation with Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye talking about practical methods to foster independence. Gwyn discusses the importance of stepping back to avoid "learned helplessness". She also explains why recognizing our children as effective problem solvers aids their long-term goal of greater independence as adults. Gwyn also talks about the positive impact of having a long-term vision and why everyone, including educators, need to think about the future and not just the now.  https://positiveeye.co.uk/

In this episode, Debra Caldow talks to Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye about her innovative approaches to teaching. She discusses why using everyday objects, like wooden spoons, enables a more holistic contextual learning experience. Gwyn also discusses her 'Marvin's Storytime Show,' which is an online literacy program designed for children with complex needs. Marvin's Storytime Show utilizes high-contrast visuals and engaging storytelling to sustain engagement.   https://positiveeye.co.uk/

In this episode, host Debra Caldow explains why hiring people with additional needs is not only a socially responsible choice but also a smart business decision. She discusses how inclusive hiring provides companies access to talented employees but can also boost employee morale and enhance customer loyalty. Debra also talks about why the focus should be on removing barriers rather than reducing expectations, ensuring that all employees can contribute meaningfully.

In this episode, Debra Caldow continues her conversation with Dave Friedman, from AutonomyWorks. He discusses the changes required in business recruiting to better match people’s talents with business needs. Dave addresses the impact of AI, highlighting both potential risks and opportunities. Dave also talks about the transformational effect of employment and how it represents the positive shift from a past-oriented to a future-oriented perspective, which in turn fosters independence and builds confidence and self-belief.  https://www.autonomy.works/

In this episode, Debra Caldow talks to Dave Friedman from AutonomyWorks. He shares the inspiration and journey behind AutonomyWorks, a company that provides meaningful employment opportunities for adults with autism. Drawing from personal experience Dave explains the challenges faced by individuals with autism in securing employment, particularly due to structural job design and traditional hiring processes. Dave explains how AutonomyWorks addresses these challenges by matching the specialized skills of individuals with autism to roles that align with their strengths.  https://www.autonomy.works/  

In this episode, host Debra Caldow talks about the importance of promoting independence in our children with additional needs. She addresses the unintended consequences of doing too much for our children and the value of allowing them to try things on their own to build their resilience and confidence. Debra also speaks of her personal experiences and shares successful strategies, such as habit stacking and visual aids, that have helped her daughter become more resilient and confident.

In this episode, Debra Caldow talks to Claire Wannell from Springboard about teaching essential daily live skills, such as cooking and personal hygiene. She discusses the methods that can be used to make learning these skills accessible and enjoyable. Claire also talks about the importance of empowering young people to become independent and provides practical tips for families on how to involve young people in daily home activities. https://www.springboardsupport.org/  Check out our Independent Cooking Made Easy Course https://bit.ly/independentcooking

In this episode, Debra Caldow talks to Francesca Diana from Springboard who shares insights on the challenges of finding work experience. She explores potential solutions, such as increasing business support and involving families in building confidence and essential skills. Francesca also addresses the role of volunteering in helping bridge the gap between education and work.  https://www.springboardsupport.org/ Check out our Independent Cooking Made Easy Course https://bit.ly/independentcooking

In this episode, host Debra Caldow talks about the importance of dynamic planning in areas like education, work, housing, and finances. She explains that while planning is important, it needs to change as life changes and sticking too strictly to one plan can hold people back. She discusses why dynamic  planning helps people adjust when needed, giving clear direction while still leaving room for growth, change, and unexpected opportunities. Check out our Independent Cooking Made Easy Course https://bit.ly/independentcooking

In this episode, Debra Caldow continues her conversation with Ben Simmonds as he provides insights into how parents and educators can better support young people with additional needs. He discusses the importance of listening to and understanding individual perspectives. Ben also talks about the significance of parental belief and involvement in advocating for greater inclusion and supporting the development of independence skills. Check out our Independent Cooking Made Easy Course https://bit.ly/independentcooking

In this episode, Debra Caldow’s guest is Ben Simmonds, who shares his experiences from being diagnosed with autism, being nonverbal until the age of five, moving through school and university, and then to employment. He discusses how autism impacts his life in multifaceted ways. Ben also touches on the medical and social models of disability and the importance of recognizing both the challenges and abilities associated with neurodiversity.   Check out our Independent Cooking Made Easy Course https://bit.ly/independentcooking  

In this episode, host Debra Caldow addresses the critical question of what happens to our children, when we are no longer around. She outlines some of the challenges family members may face if they are expected or were to assume taking over the role of main support. She also discusses how and why less traditional support models like micro-boards can also offer a personalized and holistic support system. Check out our Independent Cooking Made Easy Course https://bit.ly/independentcooking

In this episode, Debra Caldow continues her conversation with Tom Roberts from the Brighton and Hove Care Co-operative discussing some of the reasons why the cooperative approach isn’t as popular as it should be. He also talks about the benefits of cooperative care including greater job satisfaction and a more engaged, person-centered approach. Tom also discusses the issues around having a diverse membership and balancing viability as an organization with maintaining the cooperative ethos.  https://bhcarecoop.co.uk/   Check out our Independent Cooking Made Easy Course https://bit.ly/independentcooking

In this episode, Debra Caldow talks to Tom Roberts, Chair of the Brighton and Hove Care Co-operative, about how the cooperative model offers an alternative approach to providing care and support. He explains the concept of care cooperatives as organizations that are owned and run by both care providers and receivers. Tom also discusses how this model contrasts with traditional charities and for-profit care providers with an emphasis on transparency, participation, and reinvestment of profits. https://bhcarecoop.co.uk/  Check out our Independent Cooking Made Easy Course https://bit.ly/independentcooking