Raising Kellan

In this insightful episode of Raising Kellan, host Marsh Naidoo sits down with Don Tate and Kim Shofinski from the Tennessee State Parks to discuss the incredible strides being made toward accessibility and inclusivity in outdoor recreation. As the Fall unfolds in Tennessee, there's no better time to explore the state's natural beauty, and the Tennessee State Parks are committed to ensuring that everyone, including families experiencing disabilities, can enjoy these experiences.

Kim provides clarity on the distinction between the Tennessee State Parks and the national park system, highlighting the state's dedication to making the parks accessible to all. Don shares the inspiring journey of the Tennessee State Parks' initiative to become the most accessible state park system in the nation, collaborating with various organizations to enhance accessibility features like all-terrain wheelchairs, adaptive kayaking and canoe launches, and comprehensive trail assessments.

The conversation also covers the exciting virtual reality projects that allow visitors to explore parks like Dunbar Cave and Frozen Head State Park from the comfort of their homes. These initiatives ensure that everyone, regardless of physical ability, can participate in the rich educational and recreational experiences the parks have to offer.

00:00 Raising Kiln podcast features interviews with Tennessee State Parks

02:00 Don Tate is working to improve accessibility at Tennessee state parks

08:42 Tennessee state parks are currently updating their website to include accessible features

10:01 Salute to Service Program

12:57 Virtual Reality allows visitors who cannot physically visit the park to participate in interpretive programming

15:18 Don Tates message to families that have the disability experience

17:47 Explore Tennessee State Parks VR App

For more information, visit TnStateParks.com and download the "Explore Tennessee State Parks" app available for Apple and Android devices.

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This episode is brought to you by Teletherapy Services

In this episode of Raising Kellan, host Marsh Naidoo reconnects with Dana Kramer to discuss an essential topic for families raising children with disabilities: home accessibility. Dana, a long-time friend and recurring guest, shares her recent experience remodeling her home to better accommodate her son Levi, who has cerebral palsy. The conversation covers practical tips and insights on making living spaces more accessible, from installing ramps and adaptive vanities to choosing the right grab bars and shower setups. Dana also highlights the importance of community support and the joy of seeing her son gain more independence. Tune in for invaluable advice and heartwarming stories that can help guide your own journey in creating a more accessible home environment.

00:00 The Raising Kellan podcast features interviews with parents raising children with disabilities

01:54 Dana’s home remodeling for Levi

07:31 Bidet and vanity

14:55 The shower.

28:19 Marsh Naidoo thanks Dana for sharing her tips on making homes accessible

For more information, visit the Adaptive Living Store at adaptivelivingstore.com.

Mia Fox DPT, is a yoga teacher, physical therapist, and rock climber. Mia talks about how she got started in rock climbing and the therapeutic benefits it provides. The conversation then shifts to discussing  ⁠Memphis Rox⁠, a rock climbing community, and the adaptive climbing program they offer through the ⁠Adaptive Climbing Group.⁠  Mia explains that the adaptive climbing program aims to create a community for climbers with disabilities and provide them with access to equipment and training. She provides information on how families experiencing disability can join the program and mentions the free monthly rock climbing clinic held on the First Tuesday of the month.

Timeline:

Join host Marsh Naidoo in this episode of Raising Kellan as she talks with Dennis Anderson, CEO of Anderson Consulting. Dennis shares his expertise on digital accessibility and safety, providing valuable insights for parents navigating the digital world.

In this episode of Raising Kellan, host Marsh Naidoo sits down with Jeff Strand from the Tennessee Disability Coalition to delve into the significant legislative changes in 2024 and what's on the horizon for 2025. Jeff provides an insightful update on key bills, including the successful passage of the TCA cleanup bill, the impactful Right to Repair legislation for wheelchair maintenance, and the groundbreaking Medicaid buy-in program for working adults with disabilities. They also discuss the ongoing efforts and challenges in implementing paid family caregiving and the evolving landscape of special education policies. Tune in to understand how these legislative efforts are shaping the lives of individuals with disabilities in Tennessee.

00:00 Introduction and welcome

02:00 Recap of Jeff Strand's previous appearance on episode 111

04:30 Updates on the TCA Placard Bill (modernization of language)

07:45 Right to Repair Part Two for wheelchairs.

13:20 National recognition of Tennessee's right to repair legislation

15:00 Medicaid buy-in program for Working Adults with Disabilities

27:00 Paid Family Caregiving Resolution

34:00 Medicaid home and community-based services waiver

38:00 Discussion on congregate accommodation for individuals with disabilities

45:00 Future legislative efforts and community involvement

55:00 Closing remarks and call to action

For more information, visit the Tennessee Disability Coalition's website at tndisability.org. Don't forget to leave a rate and review on your podcast platform, and stay connected with

In this enlightening episode of Raising Kellan, host Marsh Naidoo is joined by Rev Dr. Felicia Ingram, the newly appointed pastor at Salters Chapel AME Church in Dyersburg, TN.

Felicia is a native of Dyersburg and a graduate of Dyersburg High School. She highlights her plans for engaging the youth and fostering a supportive community. Don't miss out on the upcoming Youth Fun Day on June 8, this Saturday from 9 am -1 pm at Salters Chapel, it is a perfect opportunity to connect and enjoy a day of fun and fellowship.

00:00 Felicia Ingram is the newly appointed pastor at Salters Chapel AME Church

05:43 Salters Chapel in Dyersburg seeks to engage in community needs

10:23 Felicia: Salters Chapel is going through a rebuilding phase.

In early May 2024, our Dyersburg First United Methodist Church church family went on a camp retreat to Camp NaCoMe in Centerville, Tennessee. In this episode, Kellan journals his time at Camp as he builds his capacity to tell his story. Enjoy!

Other links:

https://youtu.be/yWNwOpg_qbA?si=gqPGtHI4V9vqzNBO

Welcome to episode 115 of Raising Kellan, where we delve into the harmonious world of music therapy. Our guest is Martha Summa Chadwick, a virtuoso pianist, music educator, and advocate for the transformative power of music therapy. Join us as we explore the neural symphony of music's impact on the brain and how it can be a powerful therapeutic tool for individuals across the lifespan. This episode is dedicated to the memory of Steven Harrell. As a reminder, the content on our podcast is for informational purposes only, so please consult a trained professional for advice tailored to your specific situation. 

Now, let's tune in to an enlightening discussion that might just change the way you think about music and its potential to heal and empower.

00:00 This podcast is dedicated to the memory of Stephen Harrell

01:26 Martha Sumer Chadwick is an advocate for music therapy

02:21 You teach music therapy for children with autism

05:38 Marta says music can be a powerful therapeutic tool for stroke victims

08:44 Rhythm and entrainment play an important role in music therapy

14:01 Music is beneficial when you use it for music enrichment, for instance

19:07 Martha has worked with children with autism and developed notes to block

For more information, visit Martha's website at marthasumma.com and explore the Notes to Blocks program at musictherapygatewayincommunications.org (mtgic.org). Don't forget to leave a rate and review on your podcast platform, and feel free to contact us at raisingkellanmail.com. Thank you for joining us on this melodic journey, and remember, keep climbing your mountain. Until next time, this is Marsh Naidoo signing off.

In today's episode 114, Carolyn Kiel from Beyond Six Seconds Podcast joins us. Carolyn talks to neurodivergent entrepreneurs, creators, advocates, and more about their lives and identities, their stories, shatters misconceptions, breaks stigma, and showcases the vibrance of neurodiversity. As always, remember, the content on this podcast is for your information only, and if you seek specific advice for your situation, always contact a trained professional. The episode is dedicated to the memory of Steven Harrell.

Timeline

2:06 A little about Carolyn Kiel

6:00 How did the transition from singing to podcasting happen?

11:39 Carolyn's pursuit of a diagnosis of Autism

12:46 What are Carolyn's drivers?

15:00 Standout moments on the podcast

18:21 What next for the podcast? 

20:42 Valuable insights that Carolyn has learned from podcasting

A transcript will be soon available at [email protected]

Thank you for joining us on Raising Kellan, a podcast to empower parents raising children with disabilities. Kellan is starting to build his breath control and confidence on the mike! You will be hearing from him more as he begins to tell his own story!

Today's episode is dedicated to the memory of Steven Harrell