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Welcome back to CP State(d), the podcast where we explore the people, ideas, and innovations powering progressfor individuals with disabilities in New York State and beyond. In this episode, Layla Hazlett, Director and Clinical Coordinator of Adult Services at Pathfinder Village, sits down with Connor McGough from Arise Adaptive Design in Syracuse, New York. Arise Adaptive Design is a community-based organization that creates custom, low-cost equipment to meet the specificfunctional needs of individuals with disabilities.
As an Occupational Therapist, Layla is passionate about the intersection of clinical research and functional independence. Joining her is Connor, whose work at Arise proves that the most impactful assistive technology doesn't always come from a catalog. Together, they discuss the art of "Adaptive Design"—the process of building custom, low-cost, and highly effective equipment to ensure that every individual has the physical access they need to participate fully in theircommunity and workplace.
We hope you enjoy this look at how custom adaptive design and clinical expertise can work hand-in-hand to remove physical barriers and foster true independence.
Don’t forget to catch all the CP State(d) and CP Short State(d) episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and several other platforms. We have a full slate of new and exciting topics coming your way as we continue to explore the cutting edge of the disability service field. From all of us at CP State(d), thank you for listening, and we look forward to having you with us next time!
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Welcome back to CP State(d), the podcast where we explore the people, ideas, and innovations powering progress for individuals with disabilities in New York State and beyond. We are excited to continue our tech series, kicking off 2026, where CP State(d) discovers how technology and innovation are enhancing the lives of the I/DD community.
In this episode, Brianne Flewelling from Racker sits down with three members of GameU, an organization that takes virtual learning to a whole new level! Their STEAM-based curriculum was developed by gaming & technology professionals and designed to turn your student’s screen time into valuable skills that are productive and meaningful, all from the comfort of home. GameU is committed to an inclusive model that also focuses on empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the high-tech space.
Brianne chats with Brett Winters, Director of Enrollment Services; Susan Kittle, Lead Generation Specialist and Adam Coleman, Senior Instructor/Trial Team Manager. They focus on the mission and approach of GameU, including their core offerings, the role of STEAM education and the impact made in the community by connecting technology and inclusion.
Interested in GameU? Visit game-u.com. Workshops and Game Nights and other curriculum-based programming is available for all ability levels and interests.
Don't forget to catch all the CP State(d) and CP Short State(d) episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and most other major podcast platforms. Our Tech Series continues in the weeks to come, as well as more new and exciting topics to be shared in both audio and video formats as we continue to explore the disability service field.
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エピソードを見逃しましたか？
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Welcome back to CP State(d), the podcast where we explorethe people, ideas, and innovations powering progress for individuals with disabilities in New York State and beyond. We are excited to continue our tech series, kicking off 2026, where CP State(d) discovers how technology and innovation are enhancing the lives of the I/DD community.
In this episode, Brianne Flewelling from Racker sits downwith three members of GameU, an organization that takes virtual learning to a whole new level! Their STEAM-based curriculum was developed by gaming & technology professionals and designed to turn your student’s screen time into valuable skills that are productive and meaningful, all from the comfort of home. GameU is committed to an inclusive model that also focuses on empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the high-tech space.
Brianne chats with Brett Winters, Director of EnrollmentServices; Susan Kittle, Lead Generation Specialist and Adam Coleman, Senior Instructor/Trial Team Manager. They focus on the mission and approach of GameU, including their core offerings, the role of STEAM education and the impact made in the community by connecting technology and inclusion.
Interested in GameU? Visit game-u.com. Workshops and Game Nights and other curriculum-based programming is available for all ability levels and interests.
Don't forget to catch all the CP State(d) and CP Short State(d) episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and most other major podcast platforms. Our Tech Series continues in the weeks to come, as well as more new and exciting topics to be shared in both audio and video formats as we continue to explore the disability service field.
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Welcome back to CP State(d), the podcast where we explore the people, ideas, and innovations powering progress for individuals with disabilities in New York State and beyond.
On this episode, titled "Leveling the Playing Field: Gaming, Accessibility, and Inclusion with SpecialEffect," CP State Communications & Operations Specialist, Kelsey Massyk, sits down with Jacob Holden, an Occupational Therapist from SpecialEffect, a UK-based organization that uses innovative technology to help people with physical challenges control video games, aiming for greater inclusion and quality of life. We discuss how SpecialEffect provides individualized setups, using tools like the Xbox Adaptive Controller, to help players with physical disabilities access video games for leisure and fun, advocating for accessible design in the gaming industry.
SpecialEffect is 100% reliant on donations and runs events like Game Blast every February. They also offer support worldwide, even if they don't send equipment outside the UK. You can learn more by visiting their website, specialeffect.org.uk , and check out their resources on accessible equipment and games at their other website, Game Access, at gameaccess.info
Don't forget to catch all the CP State(d) and CP Short State(d) episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and most other major podcast platforms. New and exciting topics will be shared in both audio and video formats as we continue to explore the disability service field.
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Happy Holidays and welcome back to CP State(d), the podcast where we explore the people, ideas andinnovations powering progress for individuals with disabilities in New York State and beyond. In this episode, Laura Beth Malkowski from Aspire of Western New York and Nichole Belonge from CP North Country sit down with Kathleen Dowd, MSW Professor of Human Services, Human Services Department Chair at North Country Community College. NCCC offers several micro-credentialing programs, notably inDirect Support Professional (DSP) fields (Levels I, II, III) for working with individuals with developmental disabilities, funded by SUNY/OPWDD, offering stipends and pathways to national certification and degrees.
Thank you for tuning into this episode of CP State(d). We hope you enjoyed learning about the value of micro-credentialing programs for career advancement of Direct Support Professionals. Don’t forget to catch all the CP State(d) and CP Short State(d) episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube and several other noted platforms. New and exciting topics will be shared in both audio and video formats as we continue to explore the disability service field. From all of us at CP State(d), we wish you a healthy and successful New Year!
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Welcome back to CP State(d), the podcast where we explore the people, ideas and innovations powering progress for individuals with disabilities in New York State and beyond. We are happy to have you joining us for Part 2 of our interview with Kathy O’Connell. Brianne and Laura Beth will continue to explore The Confidence Gap in Dating, Disclosure & Dating Visibility, Debunking Sexual Ableism & Media Myths and Empowering self- Advocacy in Individuals. The team will also touch on ways to connect with Kathy at Radiant Abilities.
Thank you for tuning into Part 2 of our conversation with Kathy O’Connell. Don’t forget to catch all the CP State(d) and CP Short State(d) episodes on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. New and exciting topics will be shared in both audio and video formats as we continue to explore the disability service field.
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Welcome back to CP State(d), the podcast where we explore the people, ideas and innovations powering progress for individuals with disabilities in New York State and beyond. In Part 1 of this episode, Brianne Flewelling from Racker and Laura Beth Malkowski from Aspire of Western New York have a conversation with Kathy’ O’Connell, the leader of Radiant Abilities and organization based in Syracuse, N.Y. Radiant Abilities is devoted to increased self-esteem, confidence, and empowerment for people in dating, relationships, and sexuality, particularly folks with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For more information, please visit radiantabilities.com
Please listen to Part 2 of our interview and don’t forget to catch all the CP State(d) and CP Short State(d) episodes on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. New and exciting topics will be shared in both audio and video formats as we continue to explore the disability service field.
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Welcome to a special live edition of CP State(d) — recorded at the 2025 CP State Annual Conference in Saratoga Springs! This year’s theme, Powering Progress, is all about innovation, leadership, and the people driving the future of services for New Yorkers with disabilities.
In this episode, we’re spotlighting the Emerging Leaders Committee — a dynamic group of professionals from CP State Affiliates across the state who are shaping the next generation of leadership in our field.
Joining us for this conversation are:
Nichole Belonge, Director of OPWDD Services at the Cerebral Palsy Association of the North Country
Brianne Flewelling, Senior Team Director at Racker
Laura Beth Malkowski, Vice President of Day Services at Aspire of WNY
Donovan R. McKenzie, Sr., MSA, Senior Coordinator of Operations at ADAPT Community Network
Together, they’ll share what inspired them to step into leadership, how they’re fostering growth and innovation across their agencies, and how emerging leaders can influence systems change statewide.
We’ll also explore the committee’s two major initiatives — a supervisor training series designed to strengthen the workforce and this very podcast, CP State(d) — which gives a platform to fresh voices in the disability field.
So, get ready to hear from four leaders who are not just imagining the future — they’re Powering Progress right now.
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How can nonprofits build digital resiliency in a rapidly changing world? In this episode of CP State(d), CP State Technology Specialist Kelsey Massyk interviews Adam Eads, Senior Program Manager at TechSoup, about cybersecurity, technology literacy, and creating a culture that embraces innovation.
Together, they explore how nonprofits can protect themselves from emerging threats, overcome barriers to tech adoption, and build the confidence needed to integrate new tools effectively. Whether you’re just starting your digital journey or looking to elevate your organization’s practices, this episode offers actionable insights to keep your mission secure and sustainable.
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In this episode of CP State(d), we preview the keynote address from communication expert and author Tim David at the CP State Annual Conference on October 9.
Tim shares why strong human connection is a learned skill -not an innate gift - and how it can transform leadership, teamwork, and the quality of our lives.
From the science behind his bestselling books to practical takeaways for everyday interactions, this conversation offers a taste of what’s in store at the conference.
Learn more about Tim at https://www.timdavidspeaks.com/.
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In this episode of CP State(d), we sit down with Sara Trowers from Jawonio to talk about Brick It Again, an innovative LEGO resale shop that provides job training and employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
Sara shares the story behind the program, how it’s grown,and the impact it’s having on both the community and the individuals it supports. We’ll also look ahead to Brick-A-Palooza, an exciting event happening on September 20 that brings LEGO fans of all ages together to celebratecreativity, inclusion, and possibility.
Whether you’re passionate about employment opportunities, creative programming, or just love LEGOs, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical ideas.
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Dr. Maria Kansas Devine, Chief Medical Officer at theCenter for Disability Services, joins CP State(d) to discuss what it takes to deliver better medical care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
From expanding telehealth options and addressing unconscious biases, to empowering patients and families through advocacy, Dr. Kansas shares actionable strategies for creating more equitable and effective healthcareexperiences.
Whether you’re a clinician, caregiver, or advocate, thisconversation offers valuable insight into making care more person-centered, accessible, and respectful.
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In this Short Stated episode, Dr. Maria Kansas Devine, Chief Medical Officer at the Center for Disability Services, offers a brief but vital look at how diabetes uniquely impacts people with developmental disabilities.
She shares clinical insights on early warning signs, barriers to effective care, and why person-centered education and proactive monitoring are essential. Whether you're a provider, family member, or caregiver, this quick hit will help you better support the health and well-being of those you serve.
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In this episode of CP State(d), we sit down with Constance Harrington, Director of Education and Accreditation for Tech First SHIFT, to explore the real-world impact of enabling technology in disability services.
Constance shares how SHIFT is helping organizations across the country adopt tech-forward, person-centered supports that promote independence and inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We cover what enabling technology really means, how to get started, how to train staff, and what funding options exist in New York to make it all possible.
Whether you're new to enabling tech or looking to deepen your impact, this conversation offers insight, guidance, and inspiration.
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Layla Hazlett is the Director and Clinical Coordinator of Adult Services at Pathfinder Village, a community in Otsego County, New York for people who have Down syndrome and other intellectual and developmental disabilities. She joins us to talk about Pathfinder's Farmstead Market Project.
The Farmstead will be the new home for Pathfinder Produce, a business that offers vocational training opportunities for adults with intellectual disabilities and helps meet the fresh produce and staple food needs in a USDA-designated food desert community. The Farmstead Market and Community Center will feature local farm products, goods created by local artisans, and specialty items created by businesses owned by entrepreneurs in the disabilities community.
The Farmstead will also offer:
Culinary training classes and Grab ‘n Go lunch menus to serve our community.Training services for adults with disabilities who desire community-based jobsCommunity events and enrichment activitiesSpace rental options for small businesses, private events. -
Welcome to the first episode of CP State(d). Huge thanks to our guests for kicking things off with such heart and honesty. Their reflections on what drives them - whether it’s the people, the purpose, or the possibilities - set the tone for the conversations ahead.
We’re just getting started. In upcoming episodes, we’ll explore critical topics shaping our field, including advocacy that drives real change, the financial realities behind supporting quality services, and more conversations with the people who keep our system strong.
Make sure to subscribe, follow, and share CP State(d) with your network. We’re here to inform, inspire, and amplify the voices moving disability services forward.
Stay connected, stay committed, and stay CP State(d).
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