Vickie from Blue Springs Community Theatre talks with The Whole Podcast about the impact of community theatre and its mission to create welcoming, accessible performance experiences. She shares how the theatre prioritizes inclusion and representation on and off the stage, why those efforts matter, and what makes local theatre such a strong connector for community members. You’ll hear about the joy and opportunities that come from collaborative storytelling and what community participation looks like at every level.The conversation also highlights the theatre’s involvement with The Penguin Project. A program that empowers youth with disabilities to take the spotlight alongside peer mentors, building confidence, friendship, and creative growth through theatre.

Upcoming shows and performances at Blue Springs Community Theatre include:

•Frozen, Jr. (Penguin Project) — Performances March 19–22, 2026 at Blue Springs South High School.

•Cabaret — April 23–26, 2026 in Valley Moments, Grain Valley.

•Freaky Friday — June 25–28, 2026 at Blue Springs South High School.

•A Midsummer Night’s Dream — September 17–27, 2026 at Rotary Park.

•The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time — Dates and location to be announced for late 2026. You can learn more, register, and get tickets by visiting bluespringscitytheatre.org

#kansascity #disabilitypodcast #accessibility

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About The Whole Person- Based in Kansas City, The Whole Person connects people with disabilities to the resources they need by supporting independent choice and advocating for positive change in the community. We envision a fully accessible community where opportunities and choices are not limited by disability.

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Twila Foley joins The Whole Podcast to share the story behind Topher’s Law and the personal journey that inspired her advocacy for guardianship reform in Missouri.After experiencing the devastating realities of the current guardianship system through her son Topher, Twila has dedicated herself to fighting for change. Her mission is to ensure that individuals under guardianship are not isolated from the people who love them and that their basic human rights, dignity, and relationships are protected.Topher’s Law seeks to shift the burden away from families who are simply trying to stay connected with their loved ones and instead place accountability on guardians who restrict access. Twila explains why this legislation matters, what gaps still exist in the current law, and how greater transparency and autonomy can protect people with disabilities across Missouri.Twila’s courage, determination, and love for her son drive a powerful conversation about advocacy, disability rights, and the importance of ensuring every voice is heard.If you want to support the effort behind Topher’s Law, you can sign the petition here:https://sign.moveon.org/petitions/topher-s-lawTo connect directly with the advocacy effort or learn more, you can also reach out at:[email protected] spread awareness by sharing this conversation with others.#kansascity #disabilitypodcast #accessibility

🌎 Stay Connected with The Whole PersonBe the first to hear about events, stories, and opportunities to get involved! Join our conversation on our social media accounts about disability rights inclusion, and advocacy.

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🎙️ Subscribe to our PodcastListen to powerful conversations about accessibility and inclusion from people in the Kansas City metro. Get to know their stories every week! https://www.youtube.com/@TheWholePerson/podcasts

👉 About The Whole PersonBased in Kansas City, The Whole Person connects people with disabilities to the resources they need by supporting independent choice and advocating for positive change in the community. We envision a fully accessible community where opportunities and choices are not limited by disability.

For more: https://thewholeperson.org

David Johnson joins The Whole Podcast to explore how public transit in Kansas City has evolved and where it’s headed next. The conversation dives into the new Main Street extension of the Kansas City Streetcar, why it’s a game changer for mobility and accessibility, and how KCATA and the Kansas City Regional Transit Alliance work behind the scenes to educate the public and push transit forward. A timely look at how better transit can mean a more connected Kansas City.#kansascity #disabilitypodcast #accessibility

🌎 Stay Connected with The Whole PersonBe the first to hear about events, stories, and opportunities to get involved! Join our conversation on our social media accounts about disability rights inclusion, and advocacy.

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWholePerson

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🎙️ Subscribe to our PodcastListen to powerful conversations about accessibility and inclusion from people in the Kansas City metro. Get to know their stories every week! https://www.youtube.com/@TheWholePerson/podcasts

👉 About The Whole PersonBased in Kansas City, The Whole Person connects people with disabilities to the resources they need by supporting independent choice and advocating for positive change in the community. We envision a fully accessible community where opportunities and choices are not limited by disability.

For more: https://thewholeperson.org

Ableism often shows up in quiet, everyday ways and many people do not even realize it. Disability rights advocate and professional speaker Kelly Narowski breaks down how stigma and ableism appear in daily life, how they affect people with disabilities, and why awareness is the first step toward real inclusion. This conversation challenges assumptions and invites listeners to see accessibility and belonging through a different lens.If you have not watched Part 1 yet, check that out first by using this link:https://bit.ly/4bA2PmV#kansascity #disabilitypodcast #accessibility

🌎 Stay Connected with The Whole PersonBe the first to hear about events, stories, and opportunities to get involved! Join our conversation on our social media accounts about disability rights inclusion, and advocacy.

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWholePerson

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🎙️ Subscribe to our PodcastListen to powerful conversations about accessibility and inclusion from people in the Kansas City metro. Get to know their stories every week! https://www.youtube.com/@TheWholePerson/podcasts

👉 About The Whole PersonBased in Kansas City, The Whole Person connects people with disabilities to the resources they need by supporting independent choice and advocating for positive change in the community. We envision a fully accessible community where opportunities and choices are not limited by disability.

For more: https://thewholeperson.org

What does accessible travel really look like in a world that often overlooks accessibility?Disability rights advocate and professional speaker Kelly Narowski joins The Whole Podcast to share her experiences traveling across the U.S. and internationally as a wheelchair user. The conversation explores accessibility barriers, real advocacy moments, and what inclusion looks like far beyond the destination.#kansascity #disabilitypodcast #accessibility

🌎 Stay Connected with The Whole PersonBe the first to hear about events, stories, and opportunities to get involved! Join our conversation on our social media accounts about disability rights inclusion, and advocacy.

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🎙️ Subscribe to our PodcastListen to powerful conversations about accessibility and inclusion from people in the Kansas City metro. Get to know their stories every week! https://www.youtube.com/@TheWholePerson/podcasts

👉 About The Whole PersonBased in Kansas City, The Whole Person connects people with disabilities to the resources they need by supporting independent choice and advocating for positive change in the community. We envision a fully accessible community where opportunities and choices are not limited by disability.

For more: https://thewholeperson.org

Halley and Barrie talk with Gillian Gill, the creator of Bombshells Unlimited. Gillian opens up about her creative process, what drives her work, and how Bombshells Unlimited has grown into a space filled with personality, honesty, and real connection. It’s a smooth, genuine conversation that shows the heart behind everything she does.Bombshells Unlimited: https://a.co/d/7ynJvHwBombshells Unlimited Website: https://bombshellsunlimited.comTikTok: @bombshellsunlimitedInstagram: @bombshellsunlimited#kansascity #disabilitypodcast #accessibility

🌎 Stay Connected with The Whole PersonBe the first to hear about events, stories, and opportunities to get involved! Join our conversation on our social media accounts about disability rights inclusion, and advocacy.

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWholePerson

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🎙️ Subscribe to our PodcastListen to powerful conversations about accessibility and inclusion from people in the Kansas City metro. Get to know their stories every week! https://www.youtube.com/@TheWholePerson/podcasts

👉 About The Whole PersonBased in Kansas City, The Whole Person connects people with disabilities to the resources they need by supporting independent choice and advocating for positive change in the community. We envision a fully accessible community where opportunities and choices are not limited by disability.

For more: https://thewholeperson.org

Halley Korff has a powerful and inspiring conversation with Alyssa Marcy and Schylon Kubic, two leaders helping Kansas City rethink what safe, connected communities can look like. Alyssa breaks down the momentum behind Vision Zero, the city’s push to eliminate traffic deaths and build streets where everyone can move with confidence. Schylon adds her insight from major public projects and the community voices that keep KC moving forward.To learn more about Vision Zero, Unified Government of Wyandotte County, and Parson + Associates, visit the resources below. Vision Zero: visionzeronetwork.orgUnified Government of Wyandotte County: wycokck.orgParson + Associates: parsonkc.comVision Zero Overview video (featuring our host!): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCMVxxX7_IE#kansascity #disabilitypodcast #accessibility .

🌎 Stay Connected with The Whole PersonBe the first to hear about events, stories, and opportunities to get involved! Join our conversation on our social media accounts about disability rights inclusion, and advocacy.

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWholePerson

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🎙️ Subscribe to our PodcastListen to powerful conversations about accessibility and inclusion from people in the Kansas City metro. Get to know their stories every week! https://www.youtube.com/@TheWholePerson/podcasts

👉 About The Whole PersonBased in Kansas City, The Whole Person connects people with disabilities to the resources they need by supporting independent choice and advocating for positive change in the community. We envision a fully accessible community where opportunities and choices are not limited by disability.

For more: https://thewholeperson.org

Megan Vargas from Easterseals Midwest shares an in depth look at how her team works to support individuals with disabilities through personalized services, community networking, and meaningful opportunities for independence. She explains how Easterseals approaches intake, helping families feel confident and informed from the very beginning. Megan also talks about the importance of strong community connections, partnerships with local organizations, and creating pathways that empower people to reach their goals. Her perspective highlights the day to day impact of providing resources that truly meet people where they are.Megan also describes the mission of Easterseals, the growth she has seen within their programs, and the stories that keep her motivated in her role as Community Services Manager for Community Networking. She discusses how advocacy, accessibility, and collaboration shape the work they do across Missouri and beyond. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of Easterseals Midwest and the commitment behind the services they provide.Visit their website at https://www.easterseals.com/midwest#kansascity #disabilitypodcast #accessibility

🌎 Stay Connected with The Whole PersonBe the first to hear about events, stories, and opportunities to get involved! Join our conversation on our social media accounts about disability rights inclusion, and advocacy.

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWholePerson

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🎙️ Subscribe to our PodcastListen to powerful conversations about accessibility and inclusion from people in the Kansas City metro. Get to know their stories every week! https://www.youtube.com/@TheWholePerson/podcasts

👉 About The Whole PersonBased in Kansas City, The Whole Person connects people with disabilities to the resources they need by supporting independent choice and advocating for positive change in the community. We envision a fully accessible community where opportunities and choices are not limited by disability.

For more: https://thewholeperson.org

We’re kicking off Season 3 of The Whole Podcast with a festive conversation to get you in the holiday spirit! The Kansas City Ballet is bringing back its Sensory Friendly Nutcracker on December 4th at 6 PM at the Kauffman Center, a magical performance designed to welcome individuals with disabilities and sensory sensitivities to experience the joy of live dance.Joining us are Sara Riley, CEO and Founder of Riley ABA, and Kim Trudell, Manager of Strategic Partnerships at Kansas City Ballet. Together, they share how accessibility, community collaboration, and a passion for the arts unite to make this inclusive tradition possible.

To reserve tickets, call (816) 931-8993.Riley ABA proudly sponsors the Sensory Friendly Nutcracker. Learn more about their work supporting individuals with autism and their families at rileyaba.com.#kansascity #disabilitypodcast #accessibility

🌎 Stay Connected with The Whole PersonBe the first to hear about events, stories, and opportunities to get involved! Join our conversation on our social media accounts about disability rights inclusion, and advocacy.

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWholePerson

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🎙️ Subscribe to our PodcastListen to powerful conversations about accessibility and inclusion from people in the Kansas City metro. Get to know their stories every week! https://www.youtube.com/@TheWholePerson/podcasts

👉 About The Whole PersonBased in Kansas City, The Whole Person connects people with disabilities to the resources they need by supporting independent choice and advocating for positive change in the community. We envision a fully accessible community where opportunities and choices are not limited by disability.

For more: https://thewholeperson.org

Who says Halloween costumes are just for walking? 👻 Host Halley chats with Lon and Reese Davis, the father-son team behind Walkin’ & Rollin’ Costumes, a nonprofit that builds incredible, custom costumes for kids in wheelchairs—completely free to their families.What began with one Wall-E costume for Reese has grown into a nationwide network of volunteers bringing imagination to life for kids of all abilities. From superheroes to starships, Walkin’ & Rollin’ proves that every child deserves to shine.#kansascity #disabilitypodcast #accessibility

🌎 Stay Connected with The Whole PersonBe the first to hear about events, stories, and opportunities to get involved! Join our conversation on our social media accounts about disability rights inclusion, and advocacy.

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWholePerson

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🎙️ Subscribe to our PodcastListen to powerful conversations about accessibility and inclusion from people in the Kansas City metro. Get to know their stories every week! https://www.youtube.com/@TheWholePerson/podcasts

👉 About The Whole PersonBased in Kansas City, The Whole Person connects people with disabilities to the resources they need by supporting independent choice and advocating for positive change in the community. We envision a fully accessible community where opportunities and choices are not limited by disability.

For more: https://thewholeperson.org