Finding Common Ground

This is the episode where we say the quiet parts out loud.Heather and Steve sit down with powerhouse advocate Jackie Ceonzo, founder of SNACK and co-founder of Families for Disability Rights, for a raw, fearless conversation about the side of parenting and disability advocacy that rarely gets airtime—but absolutely needs to.Jackie has been featured on Good Morning America, built inclusive programs from scratch, and helped launch the Coalition for Self-Direction to protect families navigating complex needs, broken systems, and constant burnout. But she didn’t get there by playing it safe. Like so many of us, she started out overwhelmed, unseen, and determined to build what her child needed when no one else would.

“If we’re these silent soldiers, no one’s going to help us. And we’re going to drop dead if we keep trying to do this by ourselves.” – Jackie Ceonzo

In this episode, we cover the sh*t you’re not supposed to talk about—literally and figuratively. Topics too often filtered out of polite conversation or edited for public comfort, including:

• Embarrassing (but funny) moments in public
• Fecal smearing and lifelong toileting challenges
• Aggression, broken doors, and the emotional toll of staying safe
• Public meltdowns and the joy of being judged by strangers in the frozen food aisle
• Puberty, sexuality, and trying to explain hormones to someone who still presents as child-like
• Caregiver isolation, burnout, and the “dark thoughts” no one says out loud (like Googling group homes at 3AM—or fantasizing about five minutes of silence in a locked bathroom)

Jackie shares her journey raising a son with profound autism, creating SNACK so both of her sons could grow up side-by-side, and realizing that when systems fall short, parents have to build what’s missing. Her message is blunt, empowering, and refreshingly unapologetic:

“Common sense has been out the window for way too long… So that’s why I said, you know what? I’m gonna do my own thing. No one is coming to save us. So we built it ourselves.”

This episode will challenge you, move you, and make you feel seen. Whether you’re a caregiver, advocate, sibling, or policymaker, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of what families are facing and why silence is no longer an option.We’re not here to sugarcoat. We’re here to speak the truth.Tune in. Share it. And remember: No one is coming to save us. So let's build the future we need, together.

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Recorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios in Rochester, NY. Learn more at rocvox.com.

Don’t expect transparency. That’s what you have to dig for.” – Eamonn Scanlon, The Children's Agenda
What happens when over 140,000 students are suspended from school each year in New York? When families can’t get basic developmental services until it’s too late? When the people in power act like the system is working just fine? This week on Finding Common Ground, Heather and Steve are joined by Eamonn Scanlon from The Children’s Agenda to expose the cracks in the foundation of our education and care systems—and what we can do to fix them.

 🎧 In this episode:

• Real Power: Learn how building coalitions and reshaping narratives are just as critical as passing legislation.

• Suspensions That Solve Nothing: Hear why blanket school suspensions don’t change behavior—and what does.

• A Broken Early Intervention System: NY is dead last in timely early intervention services. Eamonn breaks down how that failure starts before kids even enter the school system.

• From Foster Care to the Classroom: Steve shares his personal experience with therapeutic foster care—and how trauma-informed systems are still more buzzword than reality.

• No Support? No Success. Heather explains how gaps in services impact families like hers—where Early Intervention delays and suspension risks aren’t just stats—they’re real life.

💬 Must-Hear Quotes:

•  “Suspensions don’t work. We need discipline that actually changes behavior.” — Eamonn Scanlon [24:56]

• “The early intervention system? It’s disconnected. And that’s a massive problem.” — Eamonn Scanlon [32:37]

• “If we had 100,000 people in Albany tomorrow? All of this melts away.” — Eamonn Scanlon [43:09]

• “If they admit the problem, they have to fix the problem.” — Eamonn Scanlon [13:26]

 Why You Need to Listen: If you care about educational equity, disability rights, or just making systems actually work for kids and families, this episode is a rallying cry.

We’re not here to complain—we’re here to organize, act, and make sure no family is left to navigate broken systems alone.
👉 Tune in now and learn how you can become part of the movement: Kids Can’t Wait and Solutions Not Suspensions


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/finding-common-ground--6199849/support.

Recorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios in Rochester, NY. Learn more at rocvox.com.

In this powerful episode, Heather and Steve sit down with Jackie Kancir, Executive Director of the National Council on Severe Autism (NCSA), and Tammy Snyder, New York State Chair for NCSA—two incredible women who live the reality of severe autism every single day and fight to make a difference far beyond their own families.

 “We didn’t choose this path—but we’re choosing to walk it with purpose, for every family who feels unseen.” – Tammy Snyder
 “There’s a whole population of individuals being left out of the conversation. We’re here to change that.” – Jackie Kancir

NCSA traveled to Washington, D.C. last week to bring these urgent concerns to national policymakers—and Steve was there, standing alongside them in solidarity. This conversation dives into why this kind of targeted approach matters and how you can be part of the growing advocacy network.

Together, we cover:

• Why the voices of those with severe autism are drowned out in mainstream conversations

• The emotional cost of navigating broken systems How policy fails families—and what must change

• What’s happening in New York State that most people aren’t talking about

• How you can connect and take action through NCSA’s national and state-level networks

This episode doesn’t shy away from the uncomfortable. It’s a raw, honest, and necessary conversation that lays the groundwork for real advocacy. If you’ve ever felt like no one gets it, this one’s for you. These women do. And they’re not backing down.

🎧 Listen now and join a growing movement of people finding strength in shared stories—and taking action that matters.

🌐 Learn more and connect with NCSA:
👉 National Network Map – Find your state!
👉 New York State Page

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/finding-common-ground--6199849/support.

Recorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios in Rochester, NY. Learn more at rocvox.com.

What does it really mean to belong? How can embracing radical self-honesty and internal security transform our relationships and the communities we live in?
In this episode of Finding Common Ground, Heather and Steve sit down with Fayna Claire Pearlman, a community-building expert, to explore these profound questions.




Fayna shares powerful insights into how authentic connections start from within. Reflecting on the buzzword "safety," she challenges us to shift our focus:"There's this concept of safety. We talk about that a lot. It's such a buzzword now—'I need to feel safe, I need to feel safe.' There's this idea of safety as an external form... like having a roof over your head or enough money for food. But security, to put a spin on all of this, is similar but comes from an internal space—where even if I don't have a roof over my head, I know I'll be okay.

"Here are 3 key takeaways from our conversation with Fayna:

• Radical Self-Honesty: Building genuine connections begins with acknowledging our needs and emotions—even when it’s uncomfortable.
• Internal Security vs. External Safety: Fayna’s approach encourages developing an inner foundation that shapes how we engage with the world.
• Community as a Bridge: Community is the essential link between who we are individually and how we find meaning, belonging, and growth.

Whether you’re seeking deeper personal connections or ways to strengthen your community, this conversation will leave you with practical insights and a fresh perspective on what it means to truly belong. Don’t miss the full episode!
Share your thoughts in the comments.
Pass this on to someone who could benefit from these insights.
Tune into Finding Common Ground for more inspiring conversations that spark change!



































Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/finding-common-ground--6199849/support.

Recorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios in Rochester, NY. Learn more at rocvox.com.

On this episode of Finding Common Ground with Heather and Steve, we sit down with Howard Nash—a filmmaker, actor, and father who has spent over 15 years fighting to reconnect with his son. With his industry connections and resources, you’d think he could overcome any legal challenge -But- when his son with profound autism turned 18, a legal loophole allowed his ex-wife to block him from any contact without justification. Howard has poured time, money, and relentless determination into this battle, yet the system continues to fail him. Instead of giving up, he is not focused on pushing for legislative change that will help many family members protect connect with loved ones who have documented disabilities or age-related decline. Karilyn’s Law (NYS Senate Bill 2649, Sponsored by Senator Anthony Palumbo) is a critical bill designed to close this loophole and protect families from unjust separation. How is this happening to parents, siblings, and elderly relatives across the country? Why does the burden of proof fall on loving family members instead of those keeping them apart? And most importantly—What can be done to fix it? This episode is raw, emotional, and urgent. Press play to learn about Howard’s fight, the lessons he’s learned, and how taking action is vitally important in situations like this. If this resonates with you, here’s how you can help: Mention Karilyn’s Law (S.2649) to your local legislators. If you have a different matter you want to explore, the links below help you locate you legislators, as well as legislation that has been introduced in the Senate and Assembly. Keep in mind that even if there is no bill written about your need right now, the legislative director at the different offices may be able to draft one! 🔹 FIND MY NY ASSEMBLY MEMBER: https://nyassembly.gov/mem/search/ + ASSEMBLY BILL FINDER: https://nyassembly.gov/leg/ 🔹 FIND MY NY SENATOR: https://www.nysenate.gov/find-my-senator + SENATE BILL FINDER: https://www.nysenate.gov/search/legislation Support Our Mission: By Families, For Families This podcast is 100% grassroots! No big-name sponsors dictating our content. We invest in Finding Common Ground because unfiltered conversations with changemakers like Howard move the needle on real issues. ✅ Like, comment, and share this episode on YouTube:https://youtube.com/@FindingCommonGroundPodca-hm2ku?si=gDaDpFqV-0U4S3II ✅ Subscribe to our YouTube channel (it's free!) and Follow us on all major podcast platforms:https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AkvJc65Wa/ ✅ Join our Facebook group and be part of the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/18kAfVhZgG/ ✅ Check out our online merch shop: https://store.masteryourimage.com/fcgpc/shop/home?fbclid=IwY2xjawI1eKdleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHV-KMiBavkClVzo3b6bETAeKP5yRlFOirihoPQzpUOxzqm11ejalwl1MqQ_aem_s1tWrsg-CFrBH4XU_DU9TA ✅ For just $2/month, join our Supporters Club to help cover studio costs and keep this podcast going.https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/finding-common-ground--6199849?fbclid=IwY2xjawEXO9JleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHYKhhiRz9tP94K6mhc1hsVrP01bFkiNb4npne5s9CCpB9UNYO_rmtRuY-w_aem_tZyKsdnOU0vTA9kWcqO3zg Let’s build a community that fights for families, uncovers solutions, and refuses to stay silent. Your support means everything!

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Recorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios in Rochester, NY. Learn more at rocvox.com.

In this episode of  @FindingCommonGroundPodca-hm2ku   Heather and Steve dive into the vital role recreation centers play for adults with autism and developmental disabilities. Kathy Caruso, founder of the Better Together Recreation Center, shares her journey as a parent advocate and how she’s addressing the service gaps many families face.

https://www.romesentinel.com/entertainment-life/utica-better-together-fundraiser-gala/article_36d4ade8-d808-11ef-ad08-830b27933125.html 

Learn how sensory-friendly spaces, adaptive programs, and inclusive communities are breaking barriers and transforming lives. Discover actionable tips for building support systems in your own area and hear how the Better Together Gala is fueling this life-changing mission.

Tune in now for inspiring insights and practical ideas to create a more inclusive world!

#FindingCommonGround #InclusiveCommunities #RecreationCenters #AutismSupport #DisabilityInclusion #BetterTogether #ParentAdvocacy #SpecialNeeds #DevelopmentalDisabilities #SensoryFriendly #DisabilityRights #CommunityCare #AutismServices #InclusionMatters


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/finding-common-ground--6199849/support.

Recorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios in Rochester, NY. Learn more at rocvox.com.

In this episode of Finding Common Ground, Heather and Steve sit down with the powerhouse leadership team of the Kelberman Center: Maria Cappoletti (CEO), Kelly Carinci (Chief Development and Communications Officer), and Bethany Wendt (Director of Community Relations). Serving over 1,000 families in Central New York, Kelberman is a beacon of hope, offering a “true north” for families navigating their autism journey.

From sensory-friendly events like tubing outings to innovative family navigation services, hear how Kelberman empowers families to embrace new experiences in supportive, inclusive environments. As Maria Cappoletti shares, “It’s always important to step back and remember why we are doing this—it’s to serve.”

Curious how Dr. Michael Kelberman’s vision grew into a groundbreaking model for community support? This episode reveals how their approach can spark solutions in your own backyard, providing inspiration to create impactful change in other regions.

Exciting News! Our online merch shop is nearly ready to launch! It’ll be your go-to spot for podcast updates, exclusive content, announcements, and must-have merch. Your support fuels our grassroots mission, and we’re thrilled by the positive feedback from our amazing listeners.

Tune in now for unfiltered conversations, innovative ideas, and a celebration of the incredible work transforming Central New York—and beyond!

#FindingCommonGround, #PodcastWithPurpose, #UnfilteredConversations, #Autism, #IDD, #PremierModel, #InnovativeApproach, #CentralNY, #KelbermanCenter, #FamilyNavigation, #InclusiveCommunity, #SpecialNeeds, #AutismAwareness, #NonprofitOrganization, #CommunityEvents, #SensoryFriendly, #DevelopmentalDisabilities, #FamilyEmpowerment, #AutismServices, #CommunityOutreach, #SpecialEducation, #DisabilityRights, #AutismResources, #InclusiveActivities, #SupportServices, #AutismJourney, #CommunityInclusion

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/finding-common-ground--6199849/support.

Recorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios in Rochester, NY. Learn more at rocvox.com.

In this episode of Finding Common Ground, Heather and Steve sit down with Jennifer Everett, a seasoned first responder, to discuss the crucial role of emergency responders when supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Jennifer’s journey into the field began with a simple flyer in college—and the rest is history. She opens up about her early experiences supporting people with disabilities and the limited training available to first responders at the time.

Jennifer candidly shares how the field has evolved, noting the challenges first responders face, particularly the surge in burnout rates, which have spiked since the pandemic. But it’s not all struggles—Jennifer also sheds light on innovative solutions that could be game-changers for families in crisis. You’ll want to check to see if these programs are available in your area!

What should families know when they need to call 911 in an emergency? How can they provide the right information to ensure the best possible response? Jennifer’s insights into communication, training, and community engagement provide invaluable tips for families worried about navigating an emergency with loved ones who have special needs.

Tune in for personal stories, expert advice, and a behind-the-scenes look at how first responders are adapting to better serve everyone in the community. This is an episode you won’t want to miss!

This podcast is grassroots—no big-name sponsors shaping our content. We believe unfiltered conversations with changemakers like Jennifer can spark real change for families like ours.

Support us by liking, commenting, and sharing this episode on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform. We'd also appreciate if you - 

• Subscribe to our YouTube channel (it’s free!)
• Follow us on your favorite podcast platform  
• Join our Facebook group
• For just $2/month, join our Supporters’ Club

Your Supporters’ Club Membership goes directly to covering studio costs and helps keep this podcast going. In return, you’ll get exclusive content and discounts in our soon-to-launch merch store. We prefer to keep this “amongst friends,” creating a podcast with purpose—by families, for families. Your support means everything to us!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/finding-common-ground--6199849/support.

Recorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios in Rochester, NY. Learn more at rocvox.com.

In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Brad Hansen, Director of Public Policy at Families Together in New York State, to discuss the alarming crisis in youth mental health services and the game-changing solutions that could make all the difference.
Brad pulls no punches as he reveals how systemic failures—such as endless waitlists, a critical shortage of mental health providers, and an overly complicated system—are leaving our kids without the care they desperately need. “The system has been slowly made to be anemic,” he warns, underscoring the devastating impact on vulnerable youth.
But this isn’t just about the problems. Brad shares his vision for change through the Healthy Minds Healthy Kids campaign, calling for a $195 million funding boost to address workforce shortages and overhaul a broken system. He paints a powerful picture of what’s possible: accessible, compassionate mental health services for every child, no matter their background or insurance type. Learn more about this campaign online: https://healthymindshealthykids.org/
Heather and Steve dive deeper into the real-life consequences of these systemic failures, sharing personal stories of families caught in the chaos, including the specific challenges faced by foster children. Together, they stress the importance of early intervention and why we can’t afford to wait until issues spiral out of control.
Why You Need to Listen: This episode is a wake-up call. It’s filled with hope, actionable solutions, and a clear path forward for anyone who wants to be part of the change. Parents, advocates, and policymakers alike will walk away with the knowledge and tools needed to help make mental health care for kids a priority.
Call to Action: Support the Healthy Minds Healthy Kids campaign and push for the systemic changes our kids deserve. Share this episode to help spread the message, and join us in advocating for the future of youth mental health care.  Listen now and be part of the movement to create better mental health outcomes for our kids!
This podcast is completely grassroots—no big-name sponsors dictating our content. We’re investing in this because we believe that unfiltered conversations with change makers like Dr. Pham can move the needle on issues that matter to families like ours. Please support us by liking, commenting, and sharing this episode on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform. ️ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel (it's free)️ Follow us on your favorite Podcast Platforms ️ Join our Facebook group️ For just $2/month, join our Supporters Club and help cover studio costs and keep this podcast going! Those helping us get this off the ground will get access to exclusive content and discounts in our soon-to-launch merch store. We prefer to keep this “amongst friends” and create a podcast with purpose, by families, for families. Your support means everything!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/finding-common-ground--6199849/support.

Recorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios in Rochester, NY. Learn more at rocvox.com.

On this episode of Finding Common Ground, our guest Vincent Scalise, a decorated Marine veteran, shares his inspiring journey from serving on the battlefield to transforming his community. After returning from Iraq, Vin made it his mission to help his fellow veterans and neighbors by turning local challenges into opportunities.

As Executive Director of the Utica Center for Development, Vin embodies the philosophy he shared on the podcast: "Hesitation is the worst thing you do. Whether it’s business, life, or the battlefield—make a decision and stick to it." That decisive mindset explains why he and co-host Steve work so well together. Steve recalls suggesting that the Center purchase a bus to help transport individuals with IDD, and Vin didn’t hesitate—he bought it the next day! Today, veterans regularly drive that bus to ensure community members can attend events and access opportunities they might otherwise miss.

In this episode, Vin also emphasizes the importance of sustainability in nonprofit work: "A nonprofit cannot just stand there with their hand out open, thinking the government's going to pay them." His innovative revenue streams, like recycling old clothing, helps fund projects that include repurposing vacant buildings into vibrant housing and community spaces, as well as supporting veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Steve brings his personal connection to the conversation, sharing how, when an advocacy board he was on disbanded, He refused to let it sit empty. Partnering with Vin, they reimagined the space into a thriving housing and respite project that will serve as a cornerstone for the community.This episode is packed with actionable insights, including:

• How to turn obstacles into opportunities through decisive leadership.
• Creative ways to fund sustainable community programs.
• The power of collaboration in repurposing resources for maximum impact.

This episode offers a fresh blueprint for advocacy equipped to move mountains. Tune in to hear some powerful stories, learn innovative strategies, and find inspiration to cut through red tape and bring real change to your own backyard!This podcast is completely grassroots—no big-name sponsors dictating our content. We’re investing in this because we believe that unfiltered conversations with changemakers like Vin can help move the needle on issues that matter to families like ours.Please support us by liking, commenting, and sharing this episode on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform. 

Other ways to help us grow our audience: 
Subscribe to our YouTube channel (it’s free!) Follow us on podcast platforms Join our Facebook group
For just $2/month, join our Supporters’ Club and help us cover studio costs, which keeps this podcast going!
As a thank you, those helping us get this off the ground will get access to exclusive content and discounts.  

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/finding-common-ground--6199849/support.

Recorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios in Rochester, NY. Learn more at rocvox.com.