If We Knew Then - A Down Syndrome Podcast

157. Ruby’s Rainbow with Liz Plachta

We had such fun talking to Liz Plachta, the founder of Ruby’s Rainbow!  Ruby’s Rainbow grants scholarships to students with Down syndrome who are seeking post-secondary education, including enrichment or vocational classes, and helping them achieve their dreams of higher education while spreading awareness of their capabilities and general awesomeness.
Ruby’s Rainbow: www.rubysrainbow.org
WDSD Pledge: www321pledge.org
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RubysRainbow/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rubysrainbow/
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/rubysrainboworg
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/09/16/157-rubys-rainbow/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

156. GiGi’s Playhouse with Nancy Gianni

Today, we are joined by Nancy Gianni to talk about her foundation, GiGi’s Playhouse, which provides FREE, life-changing therapeutic, educational, and career training programs for 30,000+ individuals of all ages, everyday. GiGi’s Playhouse empowers families by maximizing opportunities for daily achievement and lasting acceptance and in turn, showing the world what individuals with Down syndrome are truly capable of achieving as students, co-workers, volunteers, friends, and valued members of the community.
GiGi’s Playhouse: https://gigisplayhouse.org
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/09/09/156-gigis-playhouse-with-nancy-gianni/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

155. Using Your IEP to Make the Most of Middle School

In this episode we give an update on our son Liam, a 13-year old in middle school, and discuss how far he has come, what supports have helped us navigate his transitions into middle school and how we are helping him find the independence every teen wants to cultivate. 
Citizen's Of The World Middle School: https://www.cwcsilverlake.org
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/09/02/155-using-your-iep-to-make-the-most-of-middle-school/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

154. Revisiting Our Interview with Megyn Price

This is our conversation with actress Megyn Price to discuss inclusion, the importance of encouraging others to express their uniqueness and how her Uncle, who had Down syndrome, affected her family in a positive way.
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/08/27/154-revisiting-our-interview-with-megyn-price/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.
 

153. Revisiting Jad Issa’s Story: A Man with Down Syndrome Raises a Family - An Interview with Sader Issa

This week we revisit the story of Jad Issa, a man with Down Syndrome who is a husband, father and respected citizen. At diagnosis, parents of children with Down syndrome are immediately told all the things their child won’t do. Jad’s life shows us that these preconceptions aren’t only untrue but the very belief in them often cause limitations. As with every child, all things are possible. We hope that this conversation with Jad’s son Sader, a dentist in Damascus, brings comfort to parents to believe in what may be thought of as impossible.
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/08/20/jad-issa/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

152. Revisiting The Canadian Down Syndrome Society’s Project Understood - Training Speech Recognition Technology

This episode is the entire conversation we had with Matt MacNeil and Ed Casagrande from the Canadian Down Syndrome Society concerning their collaboration with Google AI to create a database that can help train Google’s speech recognition technology to better understand people with Down syndrome.
Donate your voice at: https://projectunderstood.ca
Learn more about the CDSS: https://cdss.ca
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/08/13/152-revisiting-the-canadian-down-syndromes-project-understood-training-speech-technology/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

151. The New York City Buddy Walk and Times Square Video with Abby Brandon-Livits and Misty Adams

This week we are joined by Abby Brandon-Livits and Misty Adams from the National Down Syndrome Society to talk about the 2023 NYC Buddy Walk and it’s wonderful Times Square Video presentation that redefines the image of the Down syndrome community.
NYC Buddy Walk website: https://give.ndss.org/event/2023-new-york-city-buddy-walk-r/e478474
National Down Syndrome Society: www.NDSS.org
FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/NDSS1979
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ndssorg/
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/08/06/151-nyc-buddy-walk/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

150. Down Syndrome Research, Ableism and The Right To Just Be with Dr. Eric Rubenstein

Today we're joined again by Dr. Eric Rubenstein, an Assistant Professor of Epidemiology at Boston University School of Public Health. Eric is a researcher, a volunteer for the Special Olympics and a lifelong advocate of individuals with Down syndrome. This conversation is a round table discussion of change and evolution, progress and insights that we feel so fortunate to be able to share with each of you today.
Eric’s Website: https://sites.bu.edu/rubenstein
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/07/30/150-ableism/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

149. Down Syndrome and Alzheimer’s Research with Dr. Tom Mahan

Today we're joined by Dr. Tom Mahan, who specializes in Alzheimer’s research with a focus on individuals with Down syndrome. Tom is a father of three boys and his oldest son, Teddy, has down syndrome which is what sparked him into taking his already existing research of Alzheimer’s and guiding it to a focus on individuals with Down syndrome.
ABC-DS: https://www.nia.nih.gov/research/abc-ds
NIH INCLUDE Project: https://www.nih.gov/include-project
DSDN Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/DownSyndromeDiagnosisNetwork
DSDN Website: https://www.dsdiagnosisnetwork.org/
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/07/23/149-alzheimers/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

148. RODS Heroes - Our Interview with Brady Murray

This week we visit with Brady Murray of RODS Heroes, an organization meant to inspire families to answer the call to adopt children born with Down syndrome and other special abilities. Brady and his wife Andrea have seven children and it was their adopted son Cooper who brought our attention to the Murray’s advocacy though his appearances throwing out the first pitch a Major League Baseball games. In this conversation we also talk about Brady’s Special Needs Life Planning venture, Special Abilities Network and discuss his eldest son, Nash and the experience of receiving Nash’s Down syndrome diagnosis in 2007.
RODS Heroes: https://rods.org
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/rodsheroes
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rodsheroes/
Special Abilities Network: https://specialabilitiesnetwork.com/
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/07/16/148-rods-heros/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

147. T21 Coffee - Giving Back to the Down Syndrome Community - Johan Lindborg

In this episode, we speak with Johan Lindborg, founder of t21 Coffee. We had a beautiful conversation discussing his journey with his 12 year old son Cooper and how he has transformed from the doubts he had and the darkness he felt when receiving the Down syndrome diagnosis. It is an open and honest discussion that touches on fears to which any parent can relate. In the face of those fears, he created T21 Coffee, which both employs individuals with Down syndrome and donates a portion of every bag sold to Down syndrome research.
T21 Coffee: https://www.t21coffee.com
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/t21coffee
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/t21coffee1/
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/07/09/147-t21-coffee/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

146. Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network (DSDN) with Ben Hughes

Today we are joined by Ben Hughs to discuss the Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network (DSDN) and how it empowers new parents with online supports, information, and resources. We also talk about the in person “Rockin’ Retreats” that offer our community the connection and respite necessary, but not always utilized, on the journey for every parent and caregiver.
DSDN Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/DownSyndromeDiagnosisNetwork
DSDN Website: https://www.dsdiagnosisnetwork.org/
DSDN Retreats: https://www.dsdiagnosisnetwork.org/dsdn-retreats
Ben’s Email: ben@dsdiagnosisnetwork.org
Governor Pritzker’s Commencement Speech: https://youtu.be/NhuIU_kXJDE
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/07/01/146-dsdn/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

145. A Grassroots Movement to Change the Narrative: A Conversation with Ted Green

Ted Green is a documentarian whose latest film, ‘The Best We’ve Got: The Carl Erskine Story’, will be airing on PBS SoCal July 4th. Ted’s film is an in-depth look at Carl Erskine, a Dodgers pitcher whose son Jimmie was born with Down syndrome 63 years ago, a time in our country’s history when segregation plagued humanity. Carl and Betty, when faced with the inevitable institutionalization of their son, which was the option that was customarily given by the medical community to protect the integrity of their family unit, made the choice to take their child home and raise him. A decision for the time that took great courage, taking some of the first steps to change the narrative of Down syndrome.
Stream The Film: https://watch.eventive.org/heartlandfilm
Website: https://www.carlerskinefilm.com
EPIC Website: http://soindiana.org/EPIC
EPIC Promo (3:30): https://vimeo.com/710911325/b293dfbb38
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/06/26/145-ted-green/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

144. Non-Speaking Is Not Non-Communicating - Vaish and Sid Sarathy

Today we are joined by Vaish and Sid Sarathy. Dr. Vaish Sarathy is a functional nutrition practitioner and science educator. She is the founder of Functional Nutrition for Kids and Plum Pudding Chemistry, both practices designed to optimize the learning potential of kids with Down syndrome and/or autism using both functional medicine and non-linear education principles. Sid, who has the diagnoses of autism, Down syndrome, and non-speaking, is, among other things, a poet with two published books of poetry.
In this episode, we discuss their journey with communication, breaking down barriers of misperception and limiting thoughts to support Sid in freeing his voice and the responsibility that freedom brings with it.
Full Interview Video (01:33:17): https://youtu.be/DkE4ZkYdSjM
Sid’s Poetry Books: https://push-press.blogspot.com
Sid’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/downlikesid/
Vaish’s Website: https://functionalnutritionforkids.com
Vaish’s Podcast Funtional Nutrition & Learning For Kids: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/functional-nutrition-and-learning-for-kids/id1478145610
Rapid Prompting Method (RPM): https://www.halo-soma.org
Chris Martin’s Website: www.UnrestrictedInterest.com
Connections Academy: https://www.connectionsacademy.com
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/06/19/144/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

143. Letting Go: A Conversation with Karen Maezen Miller

In this episode we speak again to Zen Buddhist Priest, Karen Maezen Miller and discuss the art of letting go, letting the answers be in the moment, and finding surrender in acceptance of that moment.
Karen Maezen Miller Website: https://karenmaezenmiller.com
Maezen’s books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Karen-Maezen-Miller/e/B001JP2RQ0/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/06/09/143-letting-go/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

142. Learning From Our Mistakes: Deconstructing an IEP with Julie Picot

In this episode, Julie Picot shares the experience of her latest series of IEP’s meant to usher her daughter Elyse into the Los Angeles Public School system.
LAUSD Complaint Response Unit
Website: https://achieve.lausd.net/Page/3581
Email: EquityCompliance@lausd.net
Phone: (213) 241-7682  TTY: (213) 241-2511
Directions To File A Due Process (PDF): https://achieve.lausd.net/cms/lib/CA01000043/Centricity/domain/168/froms/REF%201410.9%20Attachment%20A%20Directions%20to%20File%20for%20Due%20Process.pdf
Alternate Dispute Resolution (PDF): https://achieve.lausd.net/cms/lib/CA01000043/Centricity/Domain/1220/ADR_Brochure_English_Spanish_6.22.pdf
LAUSD Uniform Complaint Procedures Form (PDF): https://achieve.lausd.net/cms/lib/CA01000043/Centricity/Domain/383/03%20BUL-5159.11%20UCP%20Complaint%20Form_English.pdf
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/06/04/142/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

141. Julie and Aaron Picot: The First 5 Years of Their Journey with Down Syndrome

In this episode we speak with Araon and Julie, parents of 5 year old Elyse, about the lessons learned, the changes seen and the realizations made from diagnosis till now.
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/05/28/141-julie-and-aaron-picot/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

140. Keeping Up with Bertie - An Update with Melissa Kynoch

In this episode we reconnect with Melissa Kynoch as her son Bertie begins primary school in Birmingham, England. You may remember that Melissa and Bertie were featured on the popular BBC Documentary Series ‘Life and Birth’. Among many things, we discuss the impact inclusion has made in Bertie’s life and the family's journey.
Wouldn’t Change A Thing - https://www.wouldntchangeathing.org
Bookworms Day Care: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086453783217
Up and Downs Support Group: https://www.facebook.com/upanddownswm
BBC 'Life and Birth’: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m000j6v0/life-and-birth-series-1-episode-4 
12 Step Fellowship: https://www.na.org 
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/05/06/140-keeping-up-with-bertie/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

139. Looking Back and Seeing the Effects of a Non Inclusive Environment - Indira Cruz

In this week's episode we have a wonderful conversation with Indira Cruz discussing the impact a non-inclusive environment had on her brother, now 50. By looking back at our past we learn from the injustices and see the consequences they had on generations of people with disabilities. Some of those lessons can be hard. This is one of them. 
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/04/23/139-indira-cruz/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

138. ’Yes. No. Maybe.’ - Our Entry In The 2023 Easterseals Disability Film Challenge

This episode marks the beginning of the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge’s Awareness Campaign. It’s our 9th film and it’s taken nine years to realize the Awareness Campaign strives to tell our stories to as many people as possible and by doing that, changing the path and narrative of individuals with disabilities. Our film, 'Yes. No. Maybe.' is a teenage love story. We hope you will watch and it makes you smile.
www.YesNoMaybeFilm.com
EDFC Website: https://disabilityfilmchallenge.com
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/04/10/138-yes-no-maybe/2/
 

137. Citizens of the Wold Charter Schools: Christina Aries and Maureen Lamorena-Tatsui

In this episode we celebrate Citizens of the World Charter Schools whose approach to inclusion was a life changing discovery for our family.  We sit down with  Dr. Maureen and Mrs. Aries, Co-principals of CWC, and discuss the importance of inclusion, its impact and why we as parents, if it is what is best for our student, should insist on our child’s right to an inclusive classroom.
CWC Website: www.CWCsilverlake.org
CWC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/citizensoftheworldla/
CWC Los Angeles FB: https://www.facebook.com/citizensoftheworldLA
CWC Kansas City FB: https://www.facebook.com/cwckansascity
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/03/26/137-cwc/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

136. World Down Syndrome Day with Dr. Eric Rubenstein and his Co-Researcher Team

Happy World Down Syndrome Day 2023! In celebration of our community, we are sharing a discussion we had this month with Dr. Eric Rubenstein and his co-researcher team. Dr. Eric is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Epidemiology at Boston University and his research team is comprised of six adults with Down syndrome who engage the research process to create their own project. The team is curious about the mental health of people with Down syndrome and designed a research project to explore people’s experiences with mental health issues and how they find support.
Take the survey: https://bostonu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bxyp6tWSkJcoU86
The group is also hosting a webinar on Tuesday, March 21 from 12pm-1:30pm EST
Register for the World Down syndrome Day webinar: https://bostonu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_BkU7e9D8TO6HPXSRU2gfpg
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/03/19/136-world-down-syndrome-day-with-dr-eric-rubenstein-and-his-co-researcher-team/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

135. Revisiting with Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Pediatrician Dr. Mona Patel Gera

Dr. Mona is an attending physician in the Department of General Pediatrics at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and an Associate Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California. She sat down with us to challenge the many medical myths and stereotypes surrounding children with Down syndrome.
Health Supervision Guidelines: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/developmental-disabilities/Documents/Health_Care_Information_for_Families_of_Children_with_Down_Syndrome.pdf
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/03/12/135-revisiting-with-childrens-hospital-los-angeles-pediatrician-dr-mona-patel-gera/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

134. Your Dentistry Questions Answered - Dr. Jill Lasky

Dr. Jill Lasky discusses the importance of Pediatric Dentistry, how to introduce dental care and specifics pertaining to the Down Syndrome community. We also discuss methods and tools for parents who want to support their children in making good dental health habits.
Lasky Pediatric Dental Group: https://www.laskypediatricdental.com
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/03/05/134-your-dentistry-questions-answered-dr-jill-lasky/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

133. Liam Turns 13: Let The Teenage Years Begin

This week Liam turns 13. We recorded this episode on Valentine's Day with is fitting because love is the driving force of this family. Becoming a teenager is a milestone we have been looking forward to and we are thankful for all the ups and downs that have gotten us here.
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/02/18/133-liam-turns-13-let-the-teenage-years-begin/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

132. Black History Month: Revisiting Our Interview with Willie Dawkins

For Black History Month we revisit a phenomenal episode we had with Willie Dawkins. We honor his story and his parents who gave him the foundation of love and support he needed to find his way through an unjust world and the advocates who came before us who fought for equality and laid the groundwork for our fight for inclusion.
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/02/10/132-black-history-month-revisiting-our-interview-with-willie-dawkins/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

131. The Things We Learn: The Evolution of An Advocate

We talk today about how we learn to do things differently, the way we learn from our past, and how the seemingly smallest memories can hold so much in them, like the little lessons along the way. We also explore the need to accept when it’s easy, and how that can be a challenge in itself.
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/02/03/131-the-things-we-learn/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

130. Michael Sanford: An Advocate for Diverse Casting in Hollywood - Part 2

This is the second half of a two part interview with casting director Michael Sanford about the work being done to make media more inclusive and diverse. We first met Michael when he cast our son, Liam, in the Lena Dunham movie SHARP STICK. Michael had seen Liam in a film made for the Disability Film Challenge where people with disabilities have a space to tell their own stories in the hopes that more spaces like that will be made in Hollywood.
Disability Film Challenge: https://disabilityfilmchallenge.com
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/01/29/michael-sanford-an-advocate-for-diverse-casting-in-hollywood-part-2/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.
 

129. Michael Sanford: An Advocate for Diverse Casting in Hollywood - Part 1

This is a two part interview with Hollywood casting director Michael Sanford about the importance of inclusion in everyone's life and the responsibility the film and television industry has to uphold a fabric of diversity that is reflective of our global society.
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/01/22/129-michael-sanford-an-advocate-for-diverse-casting-in-hollywood/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.
 

128. The Next Generation of Advocacy

In this episode we discuss the hope we have for the future and the positive changes we see in the next generation of Down syndrome advocates.
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/01/16/128-the-next-generation-of-advocacy/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

127. Revisiting A Loving Kindness Meditation with Paul Denniston

We’ve talked about self-care on this podcast and the importance of parents and caregivers to find the time to take care of themselves. We are so grateful that Paul Denniston has once again gifted us, and our listeners, with a guided meditation. This time Paul will guide us through a wonderful Loving Kindness Meditation to help us with the many struggles we can face when we so often put others before ourselves.
Paul’s Website: https://griefyoga.com
Episode 22 - Paul’s 30 Minute Yoga Nidra Meditation: https://ifweknewthen.podbean.com/e/22-a-meditation-gift-from-paul-denniston/
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2023/01/07/127-revisiting-a-loving-kindness-meditation-with-paul-denniston/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

126. Happy New Year: Revisiting The Practice of The Beginner’s Mind with Maezen Miller

Happy New Year! We hope you are all having a wonderfully relaxing and safe holiday. Today in the spirit of the new year, we revisit an interview we had with Karen Maezen Miller about the practice of The Beginner’s Mind.
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2022/12/31/126-happy-new-year-revisiting-the-practice-of-the-beginners-mind-with-maezen-miller/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

125. A Season of Hope

In this episode we talk about hope. Losing hope when challenges become overwhelming and finding it again on the other side.  
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2022/12/19/125-a-season-of-hope-down-syndrome-advocacy/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

124. Revisiting with Caroline Bencze-Fernandez Part 2: At Home Tools and Supports

Because we get so many questions from new parents, we wanted to revisit a couple of our very early episodes. In this Part 2 we re-air Caroline’s second appearance on the podcast where she dives a little deeper into the aspects of Early Intervention, what tools parents can use at home and how therapies for children with Down syndrome have changed over the years.
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2022/11/27/124-revisiting-with-caroline-bencze-fernandez-part-2-at-home-tools-and-supports/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

123. Revisiting with Caroline Bencze-Fernandez Part 1: Early Intervention

Because we get so many questions from new parents, we wanted to revisit a couple of our very early episodes. In this Part 1 we re-air an extremely informative interview with Child Development Specialist, Caroline Bencze-Fernandez where she explains the importance of Early Intervention, how therapies have changed throughout her 30 year career and what parents should know.
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2022/11/20/123-revisiting-with-caroline-bencze-fernandez-part-1-early-intervention/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

122. Happy Anniversary: Things We’ve Learned Over 18 Years

It’s our wedding anniversary and we take a minute to reflect on the past 18 years. Happy Anniversary!
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2022/11/07/122-our-anniversary-episode/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

121. Down Syndrome Awareness Month 2022

In this episode we discuss our journey with awareness. We explore how we are learning to cultivate what awareness means in our lives, the way in which awareness has changed over the years and its impact on our advocacy.
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2022/10/28/121-down-syndrome-awareness-month-2022/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

120. The Secret Episode - Living For The Moments

Stephen recorded a solo episode this week, unbeknownst to the family, to express some things that have been on his mind and as a nice surprise to Lori and the kids whenever they come across it. It’s kind of a time capsule episode focused on this present moment and how there is nothing as important as right now.
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2022/10/21/120-the-secret-episode-living-for-the-moments/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

119. Walking The Walk, Breaking Down Stereotypes - with Dr. Eric Rubenstein and Kaethe Sigelko

This week we talked to Dr. Eric Rubenstein and one of his co-researchers, Kaethe Sigelko to discuss self advocacy and the importance of including people with Down syndrome in shaping our community.
For everything they ever told you your child would not or could not do - sometimes it takes an example of what is possible to remember who we are and that every child’s life is one of possibility.
Eric’s Website: https://sites.bu.edu/rubenstein
Contact Kaethe: k.sigelko1415@gmail.com
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2022/10/14/119-walking-the-walk-breaking-down-stereotypes-with-dr-eric-rubenstein-and-kaethe-sigelko/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.
 

118. The Best We’ve Got: The Carl Erskine Story with Ted Green

Documentarian, Ted Green visits with us to discuss his most recent film “The Best We’ve Got: The Carl Erskine Story”.  As a teammate and close friend of Jackie Robinson and then as the father of a person with Down syndrome, Carl played a pioneering role in two human-rights movements.
Our guest, Ted Green switched to filmmaking in 2010 after 20 years as a newspaper journalist, and since then he has produced and directed eight documentaries. Other subjects include Holocaust survivor Eva Kor, and Indianapolis’ Crispus Attucks High School.
Website: https://www.carlerskinefilm.com
EPIC Website: http://soindiana.org/EPIC
EPIC Promo (3:30): https://vimeo.com/710911325/b293dfbb38
“The Fan Connection”: https://www.fanconnectionmovie.com
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2022/10/06/118-the-carl-erskine-story-with-ted-green/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

117. Having The Patience To Be Where You Are - A Conversation with Karen Maezen Miller

In this week's episode we are joined by Zen Buddhist Priest, Maezen Miller. We discuss having patience and letting go in order for it to all unfold. Believing and having patience can enable our children to be who they are, go where they go and do what they do, to become exactly who they are.
Karen Maezen Miller: https://karenmaezenmiller.com
Maezen’s Book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Karen-Maezen-Miller/e/B001JP2RQ0/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1
Steve & Michel Gleason Foundation: https://teamgleason.org
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2022/09/30/117-patience-with-karen-maezen-miller/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

116. Mother Asana: “The Art and Voice of Autism” with Gina Uricchio

Mother Asana merges the focus of Ally’s art and expression with Gina’s yoga practice and meditation insights. Gina is a devotee to her Spiritual Practice for over 20 years influenced by many practitioners & styles. Her trainings landed her teaching Slow Flow Yoga, YOGA for Cancer & Mindfulness for the Special Parent. Creating Connection is the cornerstone to her parenting & personal style. In her journey as a ‘warrior mom,’ Meditation & Asana has been instrumental in understanding & healing while raising a family with a special needs.
Website: https://www.motherasana.com/
Pre-Order the book: https://www.motherasana.com/shop/the-art-and-voice-of-autism
Instagram: @mother_asana
FaceBook: @motherasana
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2022/09/23/mother-asana-the-art-and-voice-of-autism-with-gina-uricchio/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

115. Functional Nutrition with Dr. Vaish Sarathy

Vaish is a Functional Nutrition Practitioner and Science Educator. She is the founder of  Functional Nutrition for Kids, and Plum Pudding Chemistry, both practices designed to optimize the learning potential of kids with Down Syndrome and/or Autism using both Functional Medicine and Non-Linear Education Principles.
Website: https://functionalnutritionforkids.com
Constipation Tool Kit: https://functionalnutritionforkids.com/constipationtoolkit
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2022/09/08/115-functional-nutrition-with-dr-vaish-sarathy/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

114. Liam Goes To Middle School: Leaving The Past Behind Us

We have learned a lot, some harsh realities and beautiful truths. We now move forward with eyes wide open, ready to learn from where we have been, into the unknown of middle school.
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2022/09/02/114-liam-starts-middle-school/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

113. Student Led IEPs to Determine Ones Own Path of Self-Advocacy with Ellen Coulston

The discussion on Self Determination in episode 83,  developed into an examination of the term “Self Determination” and what it means in the scope of determining ones self and ones path.  In this episode with Ellen Coulston we discuss Self Determination as a tool to promote independence, confidence and participation by student led IEP planning, making that student a part of the dialogue instead of a 3rd person participant in a conversation about their life goals.
I’m Determined: https://www.imdetermined.org
LifeCourse: https://www.lifecoursetools.com/
Ellen’s Podcast: ieproadtofreedom.com
Ellen on Twitter: https://twitter.com/EllenRita220
CA Transition Alliance: http://www.catransitionalliance.org/catransitionalliance.aspx
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2022/08/18/113-student-led-ieps-to-determine-ones-own-path-of-self-advocacy-with-ellen-coulston/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

112. Seeing The Whole Child: Our Conversation with Licensed Child Psychologist Dr. Beverly Celotta

In this conversation we sit down with Dr. Beverly Celotta. Bev is a retired Licensed Child Psychologist who shares her knowledge about how to set all children up for success.
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2022/08/11/112-dr-beverly-celotta/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

111. Kicking Down Barriers: Our Conversation with College Kicker Caden Cox

In this episode we sit down with Caden Cox and his parents, Mari and Kevin, to talk about their history making and game changing journey to inclusion. Caden is the first person with Down syndrome to play as well as score in a NCAA/NJCCA College football game.
Caden’s JakeMax Collection: https://www.jakemax.com/collections/cadens-collection
'NEVER, is not in My Vocabulary' College Paper: https://www.dropbox.com/s/vm0d2tjtqs1r5ss/NEVER%2C%20is%20Not%20in%20My%20Vocabulary.pdf?dl=0
Caden’s College Power Point Presentation: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/7jo7jh80mjs9ir7gmko77/Informative-Speech-Bill-of-Rights.pptx?dl=0&rlkey=trfd9vsx23xcenee826r3jv13
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2022/08/05/111-kicking-down-barriers-our-conversation-with-college-kicker-caden-cox/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

110. The Future of Research and the Hope on the Horizon with Eric Rubenstein

This week we have a wonderful conversation with Dr. Eric Rubenstein, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Epidemiology at Boston University. We discuss equality and inclusion in research as it pertains to Down syndrome. 
Eric’s Website: https://sites.bu.edu/rubenstein/
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2022/07/29/110-the-future-of-research-and-the-hope-on-the-horizon-with-eric-rubenstein/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

109. Parenting Is Parenting: A Conversation with Paul and Kerry Daugherty

Today we have an open and candid conversation with the author of ‘An Uncomplicated Life’ Paul Daugherty and his wife Kerry about their approach to early education, college, dating, sex, marriage and lots of other things we are told our kids won’t do. ‘An Uncomplicated Life’ is a book we wish we would have found earlier with the beautiful message of “expecting instead of accepting”. Whether you have a person with Down syndrome in your life or not, this book should be one you read and then share with others.
Paul's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Uncomplicated-Life-Fathers-Exceptional-Daughter/dp/0062359959
Our First Episode with the Daugherty’s (Episode 90):  https://ifweknewthen.podbean.com/e/90-an-uncomplicated-life-a-father-s-memoir-of-his-exceptional-daughter-with-paul-and-kerry-daugherty/
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2022/07/22/109-parenting-is-parenting-a-conversation-with-paul-and-kerry-daugherty/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

108. Playground of Empathy and Empathable with Micah Kessel

In this episode we find a way to inclusion through empathy. Our conversation with Micah Kessel was an empowering and insightful discussion offering ways to focus our advocacy and to come from a more nurturing and loving place. Micah is the creator of Empathable and Playground of Empathy. These organizations work nationally with world-renowned academics to bridge science, technology, and art to amplify the intersectional experiences of the underserved at your place of business or learning.
Empathable: https://empathable.com
Playground of Empathy: https://empathable.com/playground/
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2022/07/14/108-playground-of-empathy-micah-kessel/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.

107. Graduating Elementary School: A Culmination of What We Learned

Liam graduated from elementary school, on curriculum, in an inclusive classroom with his peers. We reflect on the moments that led to his accomplishment and what we could have done better if we knew then.
Episode Transcript: https://ifweknewthen701833686.wordpress.com/2022/07/07/107-graduating-elementary-school-a-culmination-of-what-we-learned/2/
Please follow us on Twitter @ifweknewthenPOD you can drop us a line on our Facebook page @ifweknewthenPOD or visit our website https://www.IfWeKnewThen.com to send us an email with questions and comments. You can join our mailing list there and get alerts of future podcast episodes. Thank you again and we look forward to you joining us on the next episode of IF WE KNEW THEN.