🎙️ Season 11 Finale: Summer Wrap-Up & Fall Fun with the Fairview Crew! The Waves of Awareness team is closing out Season 11 in Fairview with a full house! Waves CEO Staci Davis is joined by Waves adults John, Jeni, Hannah, Jimmy, and Eric for a fun, feel-good episode that celebrates the best of summer — from favorite foods and music to must-watch movies and go-to activities. They also look ahead to what's next this fall, including recaps from our Brews & Grooves event, Jeni's exciting role in Backlight Productions' next show, and plenty of personal life updates you won't want to miss. It's the perfect mix of laughter, heart, and authentic connection that reminds us why Waves of Awareness is all about inclusion, community, and good conversation. Join us for the last episode of the season and stay tuned for details on Season 12 of Waves of Awareness.💙 🎧 Tune in wherever you listen to podcasts, or watch the full episode on YouTube! ________________________________________ Learn more about Waves: wavesinc.com Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: @Waves_of_Awareness Check out Spread The Positive: spreadthepositive.net

This week, we're coming to you straight from Fairview with a packed lineup of co-hosts. Waves CEO Staci Davis is joined by some of our amazing Waves adults—Johnny Sunshine, Jimmy, Jeni, Eric, Adam, and Hannah—for a lively, heartfelt, and fun conversation. Together, the crew dives into a discussion about the film The Peanut Butter Falcon before sharing their own stories, updates, and recent adventures—including highlights from the Special Olympics bowling event. From laughter to life lessons, this episode is full of personality, energy, and perspectives you won't want to miss. ✨ Whether you're here for inspiration, community, or just some genuine conversation, the Fairview crew will leave you smiling and thinking long after you hit play. ________________________________________ Learn more about Waves: wavesinc.com Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: @Waves_of_Awareness Check out Spread The Positive: spreadthepositive.net

In this episode of Waves of Awareness, we're diving into the heart of early intervention and the difference it can make for families. Waves Early Interventionist Tara Gilbert joins the conversation alongside Megan and her son Beau, one of the families she serves. Together, they open up about Beau's personality, the milestones that mean the most, and what early developmental support has looked like in their journey. Our hosts—Staci Davis (Waves CEO) and the Waves adults crew (Matt, John, Eric, and Jeni)—bring their own thoughtful questions and perspectives to the table. You'll hear Megan's reflections as a parent, Tara's simple explanation of what early intervention really is, and the moments that stand out most from their time working together. Of course, no Waves of Awareness episode would be complete without life updates from our hosts—including Eric sharing how things are going at his job at Publix. 🎧 If you're a parent, caregiver, or just curious about the impact of early learning programs, this is a story you'll connect with. Hit play and join the conversation! ________________________________________ Learn more about Waves: wavesinc.com To learn more about Waves Early Learning, visit: https://wavesinc.com/early-learning-program/ Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: @Waves_of_Awareness Check out Spread The Positive: spreadthepositive.net

This week on Waves of Awareness, we're diving into the power of music therapy with special guest Meghan Davis, founder of Music Ability Lessons. Meghan leads weekly group music therapy sessions with our Waves adults, helping them connect, grow, and express themselves through music. Her ties to Waves go even deeper—her sister Mikayla is part of our Franklin Day Program—making this conversation both professional and personal. Joining the mic are Waves CEO Staci Davis, co-hosts Matt Moore and Johnny Sunshine, plus a lively group of our Franklin Waves adults. Together, they explore: 🎶 What music therapy is (and why it matters for individuals with disabilities) 🎶 The inspiration behind Meghan's journey and her business, Music Ability Lessons 🎶 Heartwarming stories of progress and connection made possible through music As always, our Waves crew shares their own updates—including some exciting stories from Christy's job at Goodwill. ✨ If you've ever wondered how music can create breakthroughs, foster community, and bring pure joy—you'll want to hit play on this one. ________________________________________ Learn more about Waves: wavesinc.com Learn more about Music Ability Lessons here: https://www.musicabilitylessons.com/ Follow Music Ability Lessons on IG @musicabilitylessons and on FB @Music Ability Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: @Waves_of_Awareness Check out Spread The Positive: spreadthepositive.net

This week on Waves of Awareness, we're shining a spotlight on Able Voices, a nonprofit that empowers individuals with disabilities through the art of photography. 🎙️ Host Staci Davis, CEO of Waves, is joined by Matt, John, and Jeni as they welcome Jen Vogus—founder and executive director of Able Voices—along with her son Aidan and two talented photographers, Jack and Nicholas. Together, they dive into the story behind Able Voices, the power of photography as a tool for self-expression and advocacy, and the joy that comes from sharing unique perspectives through the lens of a camera. You'll also hear a few behind-the-scenes stories about Jack's and Nicholas' favorite photos, plus what has inspired Jen on this journey. Stick around until the end as John, Matt, and Jeni share their life updates and the events they're excited about—including Jeni's upcoming project with Backlight Productions. ✨ Whether you're passionate about inclusion, the arts, or simply love hearing stories that celebrate creativity and community, this episode is one you'll want to press play on. ________________________________________ Learn more about Waves: wavesinc.com Learn more about Able Voices here: https://www.ablevoices.org/ To shop through their online print store, click here: https://www.ablevoices.org/print-store Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: @Waves_of_Awareness Get your tickets for Brews & Grooves: wavesinc.com/events Check out Spread The Positive: spreadthepositive.net

On this episode of Waves of Awareness, we're excited to welcome Katy Clouse and Brooke Tanner from The Arc of Williamson County. The Arc has been a cornerstone in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and today, you'll hear how their work continues to shape lives across the community. Host Staci Davis, alongside co-hosts Matt Moore and Johnny Sunshine, dives into the mission behind The Arc, the resources and advocacy they provide, and the impact they've seen firsthand. Katy and Brooke also pull back the curtain on what their day-to-day roles look like, plus they share details about partnerships and upcoming events you'll want to have on your radar. Before wrapping up, John and Matt share some personal life updates—including Matt's volunteer work in Williamson County—and highlight ways you can get involved in supporting The Arc's mission. ✨ If you're looking for inspiration, community connection, and a deeper understanding of disability advocacy, this conversation is for you. Press play and join us! ________________________________________ Learn more about Waves: wavesinc.com Learn more about The Arc here: https://thearcwc.org/ Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: @Waves_of_Awareness Get your tickets for Brews & Grooves: wavesinc.com/events Check out Spread The Positive: spreadthepositive.net

This week on Waves of Awareness, we're joined by Gina Wilson, Director of Waves' Early Learning Program. Hosted by Waves CEO Staci Davis, with co-hosts Matt Moore and Johnny Sunshine, this episode explores the incredible work early interventionists do to support children with a variety of developmental diagnoses. Gina shares her deep expertise in early learning and developmental therapy, breaking down how Waves' team tailors support for children with unique needs. From navigating complex diagnoses to celebrating every milestone—big or small—Gina offers practical advice and uplifting stories that highlight the hope and progress early intervention can bring to families. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or someone passionate about supporting children's growth, Gina's insights and experience shine a light on how specialized early learning programs can truly change lives. As always, Matt and Johnny bring their own energy to the mic! Johnny recaps his recent visit to the Williamson County Fair with stories that are sure to make you smile. 🎧 Tune in to hear from one of the leading voices in early intervention and discover how thoughtful, individualized support can make a lasting impact. ________________________________________ Learn more about Waves: wavesinc.com Explore Waves Early Learning: wavesinc.com/early-learning-program Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: @Waves_of_Awareness Get your tickets for Brews & Grooves: wavesinc.com/events Check out Spread The Positive: spreadthepositive.net

This week on Waves of Awareness, we welcome Jen and Jess Chan, proud parents of Kai, who receives developmental therapy services through Waves' Early Learning Program. They are joined by our very own Michelle Baker, Kai's Early Interventionist. Hosted by Waves CEO Staci Davis—alongside our amazing co-hosts Johnny "Sunshine," Matt Moore, and Eric Wilson—this episode dives into the Chans' journey of seeking answers, finding support, and celebrating milestones in Kai's development. From the first steps of seeking early intervention to building a strong relationship with Michelle, the Chans share heartfelt stories of growth, hope, and resilience. Whether you're a parent navigating a similar path, a supporter of inclusive communities, or simply someone who loves inspiring stories, this episode will leave you encouraged and uplifted. You'll also hear life updates from Johnny, Matt, and Eric as they continue to kick off this new season with their signature warmth and humor! 🎧 Hit play to be inspired by the power of early learning, family advocacy, and community support—it's a conversation to catch! ________________________________________ Learn more about Waves: wavesinc.com Discover Waves Early Learning: wavesinc.com/early-learning-program Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: @Waves_of_Awareness Get your tickets for Brews & Grooves: wavesinc.com/events Check out Spread The Positive: spreadthepositive.net

In this episode of Waves of Awareness, we sit down with Trish Stiles, Immediate Past Chair of the Waves Board of Directors, to explore the impact of volunteering, nonprofit board service, and community involvement in Middle Tennessee. Hosted by Staci Davis, Waves CEO, and Johnny "Sunshine", you'll hear:

• How Trish first got connected with Waves, Inc.
• Why she believes volunteering with local nonprofits changes lives
• Behind-the-scenes of what board members and volunteers do at Waves
• Tips for getting started with community service and leadership roles
• Personal stories and favorite memories from Trish's time with Waves
• Johnny's latest life updates

Whether you're curious about how to join a nonprofit board, want ideas for getting involved in your community, or simply love hearing inspiring local stories, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and a peek into the heart of Waves, Inc. 📌 Subscribe to Waves of Awareness for more stories about inclusion, advocacy, and making a difference in Middle Tennessee. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com For volunteer opportunities with Waves, go to: https://wavesinc.com/volunteer/ To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To purchase your ticket to our Brews & Grooves fundraising event, visit: https://wavesinc.com/events/ To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/

Waves of Awareness is BACK for Season 11! Tony Honicutt, the owner of Games To Go Nashville and a devoted rotary member, helps us kick off this season. Staci Davis, Waves CEO, hosts episode one alongside three of our Waves adults, Matt "The Man" Moore, Johnny Sunshine, and "Chuck" Norris.

This season we're thrilled to welcome Matt Moore back to the mic after a break during Season 10 to work on his songwriting skills with Backlight Productions! The team learns all about Tony's background in the entertainment industry and what led him to creating Games To Go Nashville. The group dives into his involvement with the Downtown Franklin Rotary Club and why being involved in the community is of high importance to him.

Tony is a long-time supporter of Waves and WOA is thrilled to highlight his impact on the community and support of other amazing organizations. Don't miss this Season 11 kickoff -- tune in to hear about entrepreneurship, community involvement, sports, life updates from our Waves adults and everything in between! P.S. Want to see Tony's Games To Go first hand? Tony will be bringing his games to Waves' Annual Brews & Grooves event on September 18 at Highwoods Park Place in Franklin, TN. Use the link below to snag your ticket and support Waves' mission of empowering children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com To watch Waves of Awareness on Youtube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To purchase your ticket to our Brews & Grooves fundraising event, visit: https://wavesinc.com/events/ To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about Games To Go Nashville, visit: https://gamestogonashville.com/ To get involved with the Rotary Club of Downtown Franklin, go to: https://downtownfranklinrotary.com/