Season 4
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With Bethany Wendt, Kathy Caruso & Kim Karcic
September 19, 2025
In this episode, we sit down with three incredible women—Bethany Wendt, Kathy Caruso, and Kim Karcic—to talk about Pathways for Success: Together We Thrive, a powerful event happening in Utica, NY.
Each guest shared why they felt called to be part of this initiative and how families of individuals with disabilities often feel lonely, overwhelmed, and unsure where to turn. Their stories highlight the importance of coming together, building community, and making sure no one walks this journey alone. Read more…
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With Assembly Member Brian Miller
October 1, 2025
What if the fastest way to protect disability services this year isn’t a viral post—but scheduling a meeting now, before legislators head back to Albany? In this episode, AM Brian Miller gives straight answers and a playbook you can use now—from timing your outreach to crafting testimony that actually moves votes.
Why listen: Unlike many politicians, Miller doesn’t dodge the tough stuff. He leans in. Listen as he dives into the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), looming Medicaid reforms (including the CDPAP rollout), DSP wages, the red tape that blocks common-sense partnerships, and how to make your voice count before this legislative session begins. Read more…
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With Kurt Roskopf
October 20, 2025
What happens when we stop patting ourselves on the back for “special” inclusion—and start building communities where accommodations are normal, and leadership is shared?
In this episode, Heather and Steve talk with Kurt Roskopf, disability ally and founder of the Everybody Skis program. When a skier who needed some accommodations was sent home dry, Kurt felt awful—and that moment reframed how he approached every day after that. It set in motion a movement that redefined inclusion across Wisconsin and beyond. Read More…
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Pathways for Success
October 9, 2025
Steve and Guest Host Alexandra Fernandez speak with Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, Parent advocate and founder of Better Together Kathy Caruso, and others about the Pathways for Success event which brought experts and advocates from across New York State to Utica.
Check out the full video of the event on our YouTube Channel:
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The Unfiltered Catch-Up
October 23, 2025
What happens when two advocates hit pause on the chaos and just talk it out?
Heather and Steve take a breather from the headlines and just talk.
In this unfiltered catch-up, they open up about juggling life, advocacy, and everything in between — from Heather’s upcoming trip to the First Place Global Symposium to Steve’s work with the National Council on Severe Autism. Read More…