In the tenth episode of Empower Hour, we sit down with Ron Hearst, Chief Meteorologist at KY3, to talk about severe weather safety, preparedness, and what people actually need to know when conditions change quickly.

Ron breaks down the difference between a watch and a warning, shares best practices for staying safe, and emphasizes the importance of staying calm so you can make clear decisions in an emergency. The conversation also focuses on how people with disabilities can plan ahead and stay prepared, with practical steps that apply in real-life situations.

He reflects on major events like the 2011 Joplin tornado and discusses the real risks behind storm chasing or trying to capture severe weather, even from someone who has spent a career covering it.

As Ron prepares to retire at the end of the summer, this episode offers a chance to hear his perspective, experience, and advice on staying safe when it matters most.

Tune in for a straightforward, informative conversation focused on preparedness, awareness, and making smart decisions without panic.

In the ninth episode of Empower Hour, we sit down with Sayed Mohammed, an international student at Drury University who is navigating college life as a person with a vision impairment. Sayed shares his experiences using technology to access information, traveling independently, and learning how to advocate for his needs in unfamiliar environments.

We also explore what it means to build a chosen family, adapt when things don’t go as planned, and develop resilience in the face of unexpected challenges. This conversation highlights the importance of self-advocacy, flexibility, and finding support systems that empower independence.

Whether you're a student, educator, or community member, this episode offers practical insight and perspective on accessibility, inclusion, and creating your own path forward.

In this episode of Empower Hour, we highlight one of our community partners and supporters, the Community Foundation of the Ozarks. We are joined by Rachel Tripp, Community Impact Manager, for a donor spotlight conversation.

Because of a grant from Community Foundation of the Ozarks, we were able to purchase the podcast equipment that makes Empower Hour possible. This episode recognizes that support and the role local philanthropy plays in strengthening community initiatives.

Rachel shares ways people can give back, including donating, serving on grant committees, and supporting efforts that build up local communities. She also discusses the Youth Empowerment Program and the Foundation’s commitment to investing in rural communities, which are the backbone of Missouri.

We are grateful for partners who believe in accessibility, community engagement, and amplifying disability voices. This conversation highlights how local philanthropy creates real, tangible impact.

Traveling with a disability often requires extra planning, flexibility, and self advocacy, especially when navigating transportation, lodging, and unfamiliar environments.In this episode of Empower Hour, we are joined by Derrick Duncan, an empower: abilities board member and wheelchair user with a spinal cord injury. Derrick shares his real world experience traveling with a disability and offers practical, straightforward tips for making travel smoother and safer.We talk about planning ahead for accommodations, packing medications properly and keeping them in carry on luggage, asking questions about accessibility details like doorway widths and layouts, and why it is important not to hesitate when requesting accommodations or asking for help. Derrick also reflects on how confidence, preparation, and adaptability can make a meaningful difference while traveling.This conversation focuses on practical guidance, realistic expectations, and empowering travelers with disabilities to advocate for their needs while exploring the world.

In this episode, we sit down with Taylee Gregg, empower: abilities Hearing Instrument Specialist, and Mark Applegate, Director of Safety and Security and Dementia Care Specialist at SeniorAge Area Agency on Aging. Mark is also a strong advocate for people with dementia and their caregivers, inspired by the lives of his mother, grandmother, and uncle.We talk about why the holidays can be stressful both emotionally and logistically, and how that stress can feel even heavier for people with disabilities and their families. Taylee and Mark share simple ways to help everyone feel comfortable, how to create joy through meaningful moments, and why the season is not defined by gift giving or elaborate meals. We also cover signs that someone may be struggling during holiday gatherings and what to look for if you suspect an undiagnosed disability.

In the fifth episode, we talk with the Greene County Clerk Shane Schoeller about what their office does, and how it ties into local elections and public access. We walk through upcoming election timelines, explain registration and absentee voting, and look ahead to what’s changing for 2026.We dig into accessibility, how polling places are made usable for people with disabilities, how the office partners with local groups, and what someone should do if they hit a barrier while voting. We also explore civic engagement trends: who is showing up to vote, how to encourage more people to participate, and what civic groups can do to help.Whether you’ve never thought much about local government or you want clarity on how elections actually work in Greene County, this episode gives you the basics plus practical steps you can take to be a more informed voter.

In the fourth episode, Sara Nunez, Director of Home and Community Based Services and Compliance, and Tina Shannon, CDS Coordinator at empower: abilities, share how our Consumer Directed Services (CDS) program works. We talk through eligibility, the purpose of CDS, and how the program allows you to direct your own care, from choosing your attendants to setting their hours. CDS is flexible and built to put you in control.
Ready to get started? Visit www.empowerabilities.org

or call 417-886-1188 for more information.

In this third episode, we turn our focus to hearing health and accessibility. We’re joined by Taylee Gregg, Hearing Instrument Specialist at empower: abilities, who provides hearing tests, fits hearing aids, and offers comprehensive follow-up care. Our conversation highlights the importance of early screening, ongoing support, and how hearing services can open doors to greater independence. We also discuss common barriers faced by people with hearing loss and share practical tips for creating more inclusive environments for individuals with varying levels of hearing ability. To wrap up, we invite you to take the next step, come to empower: abilities for a free hearing test and learn more about the resources available to support your hearing health

In this second episode, we dive into the history and purpose of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and explore how barriers to access still show up today. We’re joined by Shelby Butler, our Director of Advocacy and Public Policy, and Jenn Tennison, our Community Outreach Coordinator, for a conversation about inclusive design, community education, and the impact of our Restaurant Access Points Program. We’ll also share practical advice for both individuals and organizations working to build a more accessible world, and preview our second annual ADA Block Party celebration scheduled for July 18, 2025 from 5-7p.m.

In this first episode, we introduce empower: abilities and its mission to support independence for people with disabilities. We’ll highlight one of our services and share a conversation with Cheri Montgomery, who recently attended Disability Rights Legislative Day and has started volunteering with our Independent Living department. She’ll share her experiences, what she’s learned, and why advocacy matters.