John Estrem is the CEO of Hammer and NER. Hammer & NER’s mission is to provide people with intellectual and other disabilities the opportunity to live life to its fullest.

As we know, Sheletta is one the most active and supportive advocate of the autistic community. Sheletta asks John to weigh on recent comments and intentions for people with autism and disabilities set out by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Sheletta and John speak to the misinformation being spread by the top levels of government and how it impacts autistic individuals and their support systems.

https://hammer.org/

Sheletta was intrigued by reading an article about caregiving killing careers by Marq Burnett (Associate Editor, The Playbook, The Business Journals). Sheletta shares her experience taking care of her elderly father-in-law for several years. Marq talks about the inspirations for the article and how perspective on the subject has shifted since the pandemic.

They also talk about the disproportionate impact the caregiving role has on women and their participation in the workforce.

Nancy Baldrica from Fraser stops by the show to tell Sheletta and the listeners about an upcoming (free) after hours event at the Minnesota Zoo for DreamNight! DreamNight is a designated event for children and adults with significant health care needs and disabilities. Nancy details some of the sensory friendly aids and activities that will be accessible for everyone.

Nancy Baldrica from Fraser stops by the show to tell Sheletta and the listeners about an upcoming (free) after hours event at the Minnesota Zoo for DreamNight! DreamNight is a designated event for children and adults with significant health care needs and disabilities. Nancy details some of the sensory friendly aids and activities that will be accessible for everyone.

Sheletta was intrigued by reading an article about caregiving killing careers by Marq Burnett (Associate Editor, The Playbook, The Business Journals). Sheletta shares her experience taking care of her elderly father-in-law for several years. Marq talks about the inspirations for the article and how perspective on the subject has shifted since the pandemic.

They also talk about the disproportionate impact the caregiving role has on women and their participation in the workforce.

https://www.bizjournals.com/bizwomen/news/latest-news/2025/09/caregiving-crisis-impacting-career-advancement.html

When you think of problems that might occur doing a pregnancy, alcohol exposure may not rank high on the list. This is something that Proof Alliance looks to expose through prevention. Executive director Mollie O'Brien tells us why.

Development Manager for the American Cancer Society Maryann Malec is out at the WCCO Fair porch to preview an upcoming Cancer awareness event out at the Mall of America.

The presence, impact, and influence of female politicians and lawmakers continues to grow. Former state representative Karla Bigham and Cottage Grove councilwoman Monique Garza join Sheletta to discuss the increased responsibility.

Sheletta has more to chat about so you can get ready for more events once the Fair concludes. This hour, she talks with:

Karla Bigham and Monique Garza, continuing the conversation from the previous hour

Maryann Malec from the American Cancer Society

Mollie O'Brien from Proof Alliance

If you're looking for a fun time in a unique location, there's an upcoming charitable event that might tickle your fancy. Children's Hospital Association executive director Sarah Driever and Jaymi Danz from US Bank join Sheletta to give us a look-ahead.

Coming up, Sheletta will host the Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers' annual gala. Executive director Aisha Richardson previews the event and discusses the group's efforts to help more Black students reach their dream profession.