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 this 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 this 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.