T21 Podcast

From inspiring family stories to expert insights on education, behavior, health, and future planning, this special year-in-review episode highlights an incredible year of conversations on the T21 Podcast. Celebrating voices from the Down syndrome community and the growth of DSGO, we reflect on meaningful moments, community milestones, and our shared mission to inform, inspire, and connect all in 21 minutes or less.🎬 Be sure to check out our T21 Podcast & DSGO Recap Video for 2025!If there is a topic you would like us to cover please email [email protected] we would love to hear from you!

In this episode of the T21 Podcast, we sit down with close friends Joseph Giordano and Morgan Gudenkauf as they begin an exciting new chapter at Jordan’s Place. Jordan's Place is a fully accessible, community-focused housing development designed to support independence and connection. Joseph and Morgan share the story of their longtime friendship, why they chose to become roommates, what daily life looks like in their new home, and the moments that make them feel proud, grateful, and independent. From shared chores to future goals, this conversation highlights friendship, adulthood, and the impact of inclusive living.To shop Mo Shades - https://shopupsidedown.com/collection...To shop JOGO - https://shopupsidedown.com/collection...If there is a topic you would like us to cover please email [email protected] we would love to hear from you!

Welcome back to the T21 Podcast! In this special episode, Chloe Jones and Amy Bullard dive into the heart of Down Syndrome Awareness Month, exploring why awareness is just the beginning and why advocacy still matters today.We break down the purpose of this month, the progress that’s been made, and the persistent barriers that still exist for individuals with Down syndrome in education, employment, healthcare, and everyday life. From medical bias to harmful stereotypes, we talk about the real challenges and the steps each of us can take to create a more inclusive and equitable world.Whether you're a parent, educator, advocate, or just curious to learn more, this episode is full of actionable ways to support the Down syndrome community beyond blue and yellow ribbons and hashtag campaigns.🎧 Tune in to learn:The history and purpose of Down Syndrome Awareness MonthWhy visibility isn’t the same as being valuedReal examples of ongoing discrimination and how we can combat itHow you can make a meaningful difference todayLet’s move beyond awareness and into action. 💛💙🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to help amplify voices in the Down syndrome community!Shopupsidedown.com#DownSyndromeAwarenessMonth #T21Podcast #AdvocacyMatters

In this episode of the T21 Podcast, hosts Chloe Jones and Amy Bullard welcome special guest Jen Welton, Board President of the Down Syndrome Group of the Ozarks and sister to Trent. Jen shares her sibling story, from childhood memories to stepping into a caregiver role. She also offers heartfelt advice for others walking a similar path. Tune in for an honest and inspiring conversation about family, love, and life in the Down syndrome community.Shop Jesus Gent! https://shopupsidedown.com/collection...

In Episode 18 of the T21 Podcast, hosts Chloe Jones and Amy Bullard welcome special guest Brittany Stoeklein, a passionate second-grade teacher known for creating an inclusive classroom environment. The episode explores what true inclusion looks like in schools starting with the belief that all children can learn. Brittany shares practical insights on building school-wide inclusive attitudes, effectively using support staff, taking ownership of all students’ learning, and fostering strong home to school communication. She also discusses how to teach disability awareness in a way that builds empathy and how to promote student independence. The episode wraps up with a powerful call to action for educators, parents, and school leaders.

In this episode, hosts Chloe Jones and Amy Bullard sit down with work incentives practitioner Nate Mort to unpack the essentials of benefits planning for individuals with Down syndrome and other disabilities. From understanding SSI to learning about ABLE accounts, Special Needs Trusts, and the importance of the BPQY, Nate shares practical advice for families looking to build financial security and peace of mind. Whether you're just getting started or looking to refine your long-term plan, this episode is full of actionable insights and encouragement.✅ Like, subscribe, and share to help more families access this valuable information!📌 Helpful links and resources are in the show notes.#DownSyndrome #BenefitsPlanning #ABLEAccount #SpecialNeedsTrust #T21Podcast #DisabilityResources

Welcome back to the T21 Podcast! In Episode 16, hosts Chloe Jones and Amy Bullard sit down with Katie Adams, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, to dive into the topic of behavior in individuals with Down syndrome.From stubbornness to learned helplessness, Katie shares practical strategies and insights for parents, educators, employers, and anyone who wants to better understand and support individuals with Down syndrome. Learn how communication, positive reinforcement, and promoting independence can make a powerful impact.📌 In this episode, we cover:How to approach stubborn behaviorCommunication strategies that workUsing nonverbal cues and positive reinforcementRecognizing and addressing learned helplessnessEncouraging following directions the first timeWhether you're a parent, teacher, or advocate, this episode is packed with valuable tools to help foster meaningful behavior support.🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who might benefit! Together, we can spread awareness and empower the Down syndrome community.#DownSyndromeAwareness #BehaviorSupport #T21Podcast #PositiveReinforcement #BCBA #SpecialEducation #DisabilityAdvocacy

Welcome to the T21 Podcast! Hosts Chloe Jones and Amy Bullard are joined by special guest Kenlyn Shettlesworth from the University of Missouri Extension to discuss all things nutrition for individuals with Down syndrome. In this episode, they explore strategies for healthy eating, budget-friendly grocery shopping, kitchen safety, physical activity, and promoting independence through routine. Kenlyn shares practical tips tailored to the needs of the Down syndrome community. Plus, DSGO families don’t miss the exciting announcement about a new summer class partnership starting June 23rd! For topics you’d like to know more about or guests you’d like to see you can email them to [email protected],

In Episode 14 of the T21 Podcast, we sit down with Amber Peck, a dedicated local Special Education teacher, for an insightful conversation about accommodations and modifications within the general education classroom. Amber shares her expertise on how educators can effectively support students with diverse learning needs by following Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). We explore the differences between accommodations and modifications, practical strategies for implementation, and how these tools help foster success not only for the student but also for teachers and support staff. Whether you're a seasoned educator or new to inclusion practices, this episode offers valuable guidance on creating a more accessible and supportive learning environment for all students.

In this special podcast episode, we celebrate World Down Syndrome Day by discussing the powerful journey of welcoming a newborn with Down syndrome. We start by celebrating the moment when parents become part of “The Lucky Few,” embracing the blessing of raising a child with Down syndrome. This episode highlights how this journey can be filled with joy, love, and growth, while also exploring the importance of having a supportive community. We are joined by inspiring parents Natahle and Jon, who offer encouragement, advice, and understanding to help others navigate this path with confidence and hope.For topics you’d like to know more about or guests you’d like to see you can email them to [email protected]#worlddownsyndromeday #downsyndrome #theluckyfew #downsyndromeawareness #downsyndromegroupoftheozarks