The Shining Beautiful Series Podcast
Listen to this podcast and discover the power of "Shining Beautiful" in life and in your community. Mikelle is perhaps the only non-verbal podcaster in the world. How does she do it? With technology. Meet Mikelle, who experiences cerebral palsy, her mother, Katherine Carol, and Gretchen Storm, speech therapist, and assistive technology guru. Together they talk about everyday life with a disability, how technology empowers people with disabilities to own their lives. This sassy team of coffee drinking techies interview technology and rehabilitation experts as they sit around the kitchen table at Mikelle's home.
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Caring Through the Squeeze: What Sustains Us When Everything Costs More and Government Budgets Tighten
03/18/2026
Caring Through the Squeeze: What Sustains Us When Everything Costs More and Government Budgets Tighten
As grocery bills climb, gas prices rise, and budgets tighten, caregivers are feeling the pressure in real and immediate ways. In this mid-month reflection from The Shining Beautiful Series, Katherine shares a deeply personal story that reaches back through generations—from a rustic mountain cabin in Colorado to the pioneers who endured hardship on the plains, cutting lumber, and in coal mines. At a time when families are navigating increasing costs and uncertain systems, this episode explores a powerful truth: while systems may shift, it is community, resilience, and the strength we inherit that continue to sustain us. From stories of survival and sacrifice to the everyday realities of caregiving today, this episode offers both grounding and perspective. Because even in the squeeze of rising costs and shrinking resources, something steady remains.
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Discovery Begins at Home: Peter Smith on Customized Employment and the Family Discovery Model
03/08/2026
Discovery Begins at Home: Peter Smith on Customized Employment and the Family Discovery Model
What happens when we begin the employment journey not with a system—but with the people who know someone best? In this episode of The Shining Beautiful Series, Katherine and Mikelle welcome Peter Smith, a long-time leader in the customized employment movement in Australia, for a thoughtful conversation about his emerging work on the Family Discovery Model. Discovery has long been a cornerstone of Customized Employment, helping people with disabilities identify their strengths, interests, and ideal conditions for work. But Peter’s recent work asks an important question: What role do families play in that process—and what happens when we intentionally bring their knowledge, history, and insights into Discovery? Drawing from research, practice, and decades of experience, Peter explores how families often hold the richest understanding of a person’s talents, rhythms, and possibilities. Yet too often that wisdom sits quietly on the sidelines of formal employment services. Together we discuss: How Customized Employment and Discovery open doors to meaningful work Why families are an untapped resource in employment planning The ideas behind the emerging Family Discovery Model How practitioners and families can work together more intentionally What this means for people with disabilities seeking real jobs, real belonging, and real contribution This conversation is not about learning a new “program.” Instead, it’s about sharing ideas across communities, reflecting on what we’ve learned through experience, and continuing to build pathways to employment that honor the full story of a person’s life. For families, employment professionals, and advocates, this episode offers both insight and encouragement: the journey toward meaningful work is strongest when the voices closest to the person are invited into the conversation. Sometimes the most powerful discovery begins right at the kitchen table. Here is a link to Peter's work on Family Discovery.
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When Love Organizes Itself
02/25/2026
When Love Organizes Itself
In this mid-month reflection, Katherine shares a deeply personal experience from a friend’s celebration of life — a gathering that revealed what real community looks like when it has been intentionally nurtured over decades. Drawing from the work of Peter Block and his book Community: The Structure of Belonging, this episode explores how belonging is built through invitation, small gatherings, shared ownership, and love. This was not just a memorial. It was a living ecosystem. Women from college days. Women from work life. Neighbors. Mothers. Children who will now grow up together because their mothers loved well. Katherine reflects on creative community — how women weave connection through crisis, how leadership often looks like hospitality, and how the spirit of one woman continues through the people she gathered. She also reflects on how this friend was one of Mikelle’s first roommates, and how over time she has found herself a kind of surrogate mom to many of the young women who orbit Mikelle’s life — women who are now carrying the torch of thoughtful, inclusive leadership into the next generation. Community is not a program. It is an act of creation. And creativity may be our most powerful form of resistance in uncertain times.
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And, Still We Love. Love, Laughter, and a Little Bit of Nerves.
02/13/2026
And, Still We Love. Love, Laughter, and a Little Bit of Nerves.
In this special Valentine’s Day episode of The Shining Beautiful Series, Katherine, Mikelle, and Maryann gather for a heartfelt conversation about what they truly love and appreciate — in their lives, in each other, and in the communities they’re building together. This isn’t a sugary sweet Valentine’s episode. It’s honest. It’s grounded. It’s real. Together, they reflect on: The friendships that have lasted decades The caregivers, colleagues, and quiet leaders who show up every day The small rituals — coffee time, creative work, shared laughter — that sustain them And yes… the subtle undercurrent of anxiety many of us are carrying in uncertain times In a year marked by policy shifts, funding questions, and a rapidly changing landscape for families and people with disabilities, love can feel both powerful and fragile. This conversation explores how gratitude and worry can coexist — and how choosing appreciation, even now, is an act of courage. Mikelle shares what she loves about her work and friendships. Maryann reflects on mentorship, inclusion, and the next generation of leadership. Katherine offers perspective from decades of advocacy — reminding us that even in seasons of change, we are more resilient than we think. This episode is a reminder that love is not naïve. It is strategic. It is sustaining. It is how communities survive. 💛 As you listen, we invite you to ask yourself: What do you love right now? Who do you appreciate but haven’t told? What steady presence in your life deserves your gratitude? Still, we love. And that matters.
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The Quiet Leadership of Care: Honoring a Legacy That Lives On
01/27/2026
The Quiet Leadership of Care: Honoring a Legacy That Lives On
In this solo episode of Shining Beautiful, Katherine reflects on the legacy of nurse, mentor and caregiver Alex Pretti--and the profound, often unseen impact caregivers have on our lives, families, workplaces and communities. Through personal insight and gentle storytelling, Katherine explores the quiet leadership of caregiving: the small acts of kindness, presence, and compassion that shape human connection and create lasting change. From hosptial rooms to grocery store liens, this episode is a reminder that caregive is not only what we do--it is who we are. A thoughtful pause, an invitation to lead with humanity, and a tribute to those whose lives continue to ripple forward through the people they touch.
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Still Working: Customized Employment in a Time of Change with Cary Griffin
01/15/2026
Still Working: Customized Employment in a Time of Change with Cary Griffin
There’s a particular kind of laughter that shows up when people have lived through enough systems change to know two things at once: that the work matters deeply—and that taking ourselves too seriously won’t get us very far. That spirit framed our recent conversation with Cary Griffin, a longtime leader and truth-teller in the field of customized employment. We came together to talk about what’s shifting at the federal level, what those changes mean on the ground, and how individuals with disabilities and families can continue shaping meaningful employment journeys in an increasingly uncertain environment. The headlines can feel heavy. Policy priorities change. Funding structures wobble. Programs are renamed, restructured, or reduced. Families and self-advocates are often left translating vague language into very real, very personal decisions. And yet—this conversation wasn’t rooted in fear. It was rooted in perspective. Cary reminded us that customized employment was never about fitting people into tidy systems. It has always been about creativity, alignment, relationships, and listening deeply—to individuals, to businesses, and to communities. Those fundamentals don’t disappear when administrations change. In many ways, they become even more important. We talked about what it looks like to: Stay grounded when policy signals are confusing or discouraging Reframe employment as an evolving and meaningful journey rather than a fixed outcome Help individuals and families focus on strengths, contributions, and relationships instead of program limitations Keep joy, humor, and humanity at the center of serious work There was laughter—real, unfiltered laughter—because sometimes humor is how we tell the truth gently enough to hear it ourselves.
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And, Still, We Begin. New Year's 2026
12/31/2025
And, Still, We Begin. New Year's 2026
As a new year begins, Katherine reflects on the mixed emotions many of us are carrying—hope, fatigue, uncertainty, and cautious optimism. In this episode, she shares her honest thoughts about the changes ahead, including concerns about funding, policy shifts, and the stability of long-term supports for people with disabilities. Drawing on decades of lived experience as a parent, advocate, and community builder, Katherine reminds listeners that we are not entering this year unprepared. She explores how the skills developed over years—storytelling, resourcefulness, advocacy, and translation—equip individuals, families, and communities to navigate change without losing sight of what matters most: meaningful lives, inclusive communities, and shared responsibility. This episode is an invitation to begin the year grounded, nimble, and connected—trusting what we’ve already learned, and moving forward together.
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Where Friendship Shines Bright
12/25/2025
Where Friendship Shines Bright
In this festive and heart-warming episode of The Shining Beautiful Series Podcast, Mikelle leads us into the spirit of the season as she celebrates Secret Santa with the Shining Beautiful team and hosts a joyful holiday brunch with longtime friends — including Ian, the former barista who helped inspire the very concept of Shining Beautiful by ensuring she was fully included as part of the Starbucks community over 20 years ago. We’re joined by team member Torie, who shares her perspective on finding belonging in a new role and discovering how inclusion is lived — not just talked about. Together, we explore what makes friendships endure, how everyday acts of kindness shape a lifetime of connection, and the power of showing up for one another over time. Filled with laughter, gratitude, and reminders that the smallest gestures can become the biggest gifts, this episode is a celebration of what truly matters during the holidays: the friendships that stay, the communities we build, and the love that continues to grow. Happy holidays from all of us at Shining Beautiful — may your season shine bright with kindness and connection.
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Aging, Disability, and the Courage to Keep Moving Forward
12/02/2025
Aging, Disability, and the Courage to Keep Moving Forward
In this heartfelt episode of The Shining Beautiful Series Podcast, Mikelle sits down with her longtime friend and fellow podcaster, Win Charles, for a candid conversation about aging, disability, and navigating life’s next significant transitions. Win—who also has cerebral palsy—is preparing for an upcoming hip replacement surgery. While it’s a routine procedure for many, it becomes a very different experience when disability shapes your daily life, communication, and recovery. Together, Mikelle, Win, and Katherine explore how the medical system responds to “typical” surgeries in not-so-typical bodies, and what it means to advocate for yourself at every step. The trio opens up about the realities of getting older with a disability—from shifting physical needs to rethinking living arrangements, strengthening support teams, and building communities that adapt with you. Their conversation is honest, hopeful, and full of lived wisdom. This episode is a reminder that aging isn’t something to fear—it’s another chapter to write with courage, creativity, and connection. Whether you’re a family caregiver, a person with a disability, or simply someone navigating change, you’ll find insight, humor, and heart in this powerful exchange between two remarkable women who have spent a lifetime redefining independence.
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Behind the Care: Families, Employment & the Budget Ripples
11/18/2025
Behind the Care: Families, Employment & the Budget Ripples
This month — as we honour National Family Caregivers Month — we turn our attention to the 63 million Americans who provide unpaid care for loved ones with disabilities or chronic health needs. That staggering number is nearly one in every four adults. () Here in Colorado, roughly 600,000 family caregivers contribute 560 million hours of unpaid care annually — a value of about $11.2 billion. () On this episode of The Shining Beautiful Series Podcast, host Katherine sits down with Cary Griffin to explore how caregivers are at the heart of employment and inclusion systems — yet often overlooked in policy, funding and workforce narratives. We’ll dig into: How the caregiving role intersects with paid employment, training and economic security What budget-pressures in Colorado, including recent cuts to critical programs like the Family Provider rates within the DD waiver and the Community Connector services, mean for caregivers and the people they support Survey findings from Our Back Office research: how caregivers are juggling employment, support teams, aging, and systems change Actionable ideas for families, providers and employment professionals to re-frame caregivers as part of the solution—not just recipients of support Whether you are a caregiver, a support professional, an employer, or someone who wants to understand the invisible backbone of community inclusion models better — this conversation is for you. Join us and discover how supporting caregivers isn’t a side conversation — it’s central to sustaining employment, inclusion and dignity for people with disabilities and their families. Additonal Data Resources: Administration for Community Living. (n.d.). 2022 National strategy to support family caregivers. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Colorado Department of Human Services, Division of Aging and Adult Services. (n.d.). Colorado aging and adult services. National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities. (n.d.). Bridging aging and disability networks.
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Employment Shines Bright: Mikelle’s Story for NDEAM
11/04/2025
Employment Shines Bright: Mikelle’s Story for NDEAM
In this inspiring episode of The Shining Beautiful Series Podcast, Katherine and Torie join Mikelle in celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) by sharing the heart and hustle behind Mikelle’s entrepreneurial journey. Mikelle opens up about why she loves making and selling her handmade bracelets — from the joy of choosing colors to the pride she feels when someone buys a piece of her art. Katherine reflects on how meaningful work builds purpose and independence, while Torie adds a fresh Gen Z perspective on teamwork, inclusion, and the power of believing in your own creativity. Together, they show that employment isn’t just about a paycheck — it’s about belonging, confidence, and shining bright in the work you love.
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Shutdown, Stress, and the Strength of Families
10/24/2025
Shutdown, Stress, and the Strength of Families
The October 2025 government shutdown isn’t just a headline — it’s a story unfolding in kitchens, care teams, and communities across the country. Katherine reflects on the real-life impact for people with disabilities and aging caregivers who keep going even when government doesn’t. This mid-month update calls for action, awareness, and compassion — reminding us that the nation’s care infrastructure depends on the families who hold it together every day.
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Meet Torie: The Joy and Drive of Gen Z on the Shining Beautiful Team
10/17/2025
Meet Torie: The Joy and Drive of Gen Z on the Shining Beautiful Team
In this lively episode of The Shining Beautiful Series Podcast, Mikelle and Katherine sit down with Torie — the newest member of the Shining Beautiful team. At just 21, Torie brings a fresh Gen Z perspective, a fearless spirit, and a contagious laugh that fills the room. Together, they talk about learning the ropes of supported employment, finding rhythm in teamwork, and discovering joy in meaningful work. Torie shares what drew her to this role, what she’s learned so far, and how she’s building connections with Mikelle and the rest of the team. It’s a conversation full of laughter, insight, and heart — a reminder that every generation has something beautiful to bring to the table.
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Transitions: Seasons, Systems, and Speaking Up
09/24/2025
Transitions: Seasons, Systems, and Speaking Up
On this rainy first day of fall, Katherine reflect on transitions—both seasonal and systemic. Just as summer turns to autumn, Colorado is shifting from long-standing waiver programs to Community First Choice. What does this mean for individuals with disabilities, families, and support teams? In this episode of The Shining Beautiful Series Podcast, Katherine explore the importance of advocacy during times of change—listening first, defining the problem, showing the impact, asking questions, and making clear what we want for the future. We also connect these themes to September’s Emergency Preparedness Month, highlighting how preparedness extends beyond natural disasters to encompass life transitions and succession planning. Katherine reflects on her own journey in preparing for who will succeed her, ensuring Mikelle’s team and vision remain strong for years to come. This episode is a quiet but powerful invitation: to listen, to speak up, and to prepare for the future—together.
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The Calendar at the Center of Care
08/31/2025
The Calendar at the Center of Care
In this episode of The Shining Beautiful Series Podcast, Katherine pull back the curtain on the heartbeat of life in Mikelle’s downtown Denver condo: the calendar. What seems like a simple tool—paper and ink, squares and notes—becomes a lighthouse guiding continuity of care and protecting Mikelle’s privacy. With ConnectTeam supporting scheduling and reminders beyond the condo walls, the balance of paper and digital creates both structure and freedom. But the real story unfolds around the kitchen table, where the team gathers over watermelon, pizza, and laughter. Here, Mikelle’s voice leads the way, and new ideas—like the September “no daytime TV” challenge—are born. Join us for a conversation about how calendars, apps, and kitchen tables weave together to create not just continuity of care, but a community of love, joy, and resilience.
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Forged in Friendship: Saying Farewell to Shannon
08/20/2025
Forged in Friendship: Saying Farewell to Shannon
In this heartfelt episode of The Shining Beautiful Series Podcast, Mikelle and Katherine sit down with Shannon, the eldest member of Mikelle’s support team, as she prepares to head off on new adventures. Over the past year, Shannon has brought boundless energy, sharp organizational skills, and her unique background as a blacksmith and metal artist to the team. Together, we reflect on what drew her to the job, what she’s learned about working with someone with cerebral palsy, the challenges she’s faced, and the unexpected gifts along the way. Mikelle leads the conversation with thoughtful and fun questions, including a lighthearted rapid-fire round that will make you smile. While we’ll miss Shannon, this episode celebrates the friendships and connections that last far beyond the job.
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Summer, Support, and Self-Care: Notes from a Season of Change
08/02/2025
Summer, Support, and Self-Care: Notes from a Season of Change
In this heartfelt midsummer episode, Katherine reflects on a season full of sparkle, growth, and the power of a strong support team. From Mikelle’s night out at Film on the Rocks to the everyday victories made possible by a dedicated crew of caregivers, The Shining Beautiful Series Podcast celebrates the joy that comes when everyone has space to shine. Katherine also shares a timely update on the ongoing impact of the Big Beautiful Bill (BBB), and why staying connected—and taking care of ourselves—is more important than ever. With warmth and honesty, this episode offers a glimpse into how families like Mikelle’s are navigating uncertainty while continuing to show up for joy, community, and creativity. Whether you’re a caregiver, advocate, or just someone trying to catch your breath this summer, this episode is for you.
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Beaming with Pride: Mikelle’s Story Shines in the Beam+ Mini-Doc
07/18/2025
Beaming with Pride: Mikelle’s Story Shines in the Beam+ Mini-Doc
In this episode of The Shining Beautiful Series Podcast, we celebrate a milestone moment—Mikelle’s powerful story being featured in the Beam+ Mini-Doc, now streaming on . Join Maryann, Katherine, and Mikelle as they reflect on the filming process, the energy on set, and what it meant to stand alongside eight other fierce self-advocates whose lives challenge stereotypes and ignite conversations. From wardrobe choices to what made Mikelle laugh during production, we take you behind the scenes of this empowering experience. More than a documentary, Beam+ is a movement—and Mikelle’s voice adds depth, dignity, and joy to the story of disability and self-advocacy in America today. Tune in as we beam with pride, share the impact of this storytelling project, and encourage others to raise their voices, too. 🔗 Watch the mini-doc at 🎧 Subscribe and share if you believe stories change the world!
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Beautiful Spin, Brutal Reality: Medicaid and the Big Bill
07/10/2025
Beautiful Spin, Brutal Reality: Medicaid and the Big Bill
In this powerful episode of The Shining Beautiful Series Podcast, Katherine shares her perspectives on the recently passed "Big Beautiful Bill"—legislation that slashes billions from Medicaid over the next few years. While politicians celebrate budget cuts, people like Mikelle face an uncertain future. What happens when the supports that make independence, employment, and dignity possible are suddenly on the chopping block? Through honest storytelling, lived experience, and advocacy, this episode challenges the narrative surrounding this bill and invites listeners to stand up, speak out, and shed light on what’s truly at stake. Whether you're a policymaker, caregiver, self-advocate, or ally—this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.
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Zip Ties & Budget Lies: The Real Cost of the Big Beautiful Bill
06/30/2025
Zip Ties & Budget Lies: The Real Cost of the Big Beautiful Bill
In this urgent and emotional episode of The Shining Beautiful Series, Katherine dives into the devastating impact of the HB-1 “Big Beautiful Bill,” passed during the June 30th vote-a-rama. As the federal government moves to gut Medicaid and unravel decades of disability rights progress, people with disabilities were zip-tied in the U.S. Capitol simply for demanding their right to live with dignity. Katherine contrasts this cruelty with a brighter vision from Colorado, where Governor Polis is set to sign three powerful bills—HB25-1239, HB25-1017, and HB25-1154—that protect civil rights, expand community integration, and invest in communication services for people with disabilities. This is a story of two Americas: one where disabled voices are silenced, and another where they’re heard, valued, and supported. Tune in to hear why we must resist with hope, organize with urgency, and never stop fighting for the people we love and support.
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Living Lightly: Discipline, Improv, and the Everyday Reset
06/12/2025
Living Lightly: Discipline, Improv, and the Everyday Reset
In this episode of The Shining Beautiful Series Podcast, Katherine Carol explores what it really takes to stay positive in uncertain times. Spoiler alert—it’s not all sunshine and good vibes. It takes discipline, intentional resets, and a willingness to live life like improv: one unexpected moment at a time. Drawing from her own experience as a lifelong caregiver, advocate, and mother, Katherine shares how she and Mikelle navigate daily challenges with humor, creativity, and just enough structure to keep going. Whether it’s tuning out the chaos, starting the day with gratitude, or simply showing up—this episode is your reminder that living lightly is a radical act of resilience. Tune in for stories, strategies, and soul-fortifying inspiration for anyone trying to stay grounded while living life unscripted.
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Stylin’ It: Mikelle and Maryann Light Up the Runway at Denver Fashion Week
06/08/2025
Stylin’ It: Mikelle and Maryann Light Up the Runway at Denver Fashion Week
In this joyful and fashion-forward episode of The Shining Beautiful Series Podcast, Mikelle and Maryann take us behind the scenes of their unforgettable modeling moment at Denver Fashion Week. Learn how this dynamic duo created the opportunity, from networking and bold visioning to connecting with inclusive fashion leaders. They share what it was like backstage—the energy, the nerves, the laughter—and the powerful experience of strutting down the runway in bold red looks. More than just a moment in the spotlight, this episode highlights how Mikelle and Maryann, with the support of Denver Fashion Week, challenged stereotypes and showed the world that people with disabilities are not just present—they're paving the way, gracing the runway, and landing on the covers of publications with style and power. Skye Barber Maa designed the ladies fashion.
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Two Americas: Slashing Support vs. Building Belonging
05/23/2025
Two Americas: Slashing Support vs. Building Belonging
In this powerful episode of The Shining Beautiful Series, we unpack the devastating implications of the federal HB-1 bill—an aggressive piece of legislation that slashes Medicaid funding and threatens the stability of home- and community-based services for people with disabilities. While Washington proposes deep cuts, Colorado offers a different path forward. We highlight three landmark bills soon to be signed by Governor Jared Polis: HB25-1239 expanding the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act, HB25-1017 establishing a strong Community Integration Plan, and HB25-1154 launching a new Communication Services Enterprise for people with disabilities. Join us as we contrast these vastly different visions of the future—one that dismantles support, and another that invests in inclusion, dignity, and accessibility.
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Bridging the Gap: Special Education Today and Tomorrow with Bob Barrows
04/30/2025
Bridging the Gap: Special Education Today and Tomorrow with Bob Barrows
In this insightful episode of The Shining Beautiful Series Podcast, Katherine and Mikelle sits down with longtime educator, administrator, and special education consultant Bob Barrows. Together, they explore the evolving relationship between general and special education—and compare services and supports in both urban and rural settings. Drawing on his decades of experience, Bob shares what’s working, what’s not, and where innovation is taking us. T he conversation also dives into how artificial intelligence might support—or complicate—the role of special educators. Tune in as we examine the biggest challenges and emerging risks facing special education in the coming years, and what families, educators, and policymakers can do to prepare. You can find Bob @
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From Page to Power: Brittany G’s Storytelling Spark
04/09/2025
From Page to Power: Brittany G’s Storytelling Spark
In this inspiring episode and inn honor of last month's celebration of Cerbral Palsy Awareness, we sit down with the multitalented Brittany "Lenny" Gilbert—an author, filmmaker, and lifelong entrepreneur who’s been dreaming big since the age of sixteen. With a notebook in one hand and a pencil in the other, Lenny began crafting the stories that would shape her future. Mikelle and I dive into the making of her 2018 self-published book Rudy & Me, a heartfelt story that later blossomed into her first short film in 2022. Brittany shares her creative process, what it’s like turning words into moving pictures, and the lessons she’s learned while carving her path as a storyteller and entrepreneur. Whether you're a fellow dreamer, a lover of indie films, or someone walking the winding road of creative self-expression, this episode will remind you that beautiful things happen when you believe in your story. ✨ Tune in and get inspired by Brittany’s shining journey.
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From Denver to D.C.: Updates on Medicaid & Community Living Policies
04/01/2025
From Denver to D.C.: Updates on Medicaid & Community Living Policies
In our upcoming episode, "From Denver to D.C.: Updates on Medicaid & Community Living Policies," Katherine delves into recent policy developments impacting Medicaid and community living services at both the state and federal levels. She discusses Colorado's proposed 1.6% increase in Medicaid provider reimbursement rates amid a $1.2 billion budget shortfall, and the federal government's plan to dismantle the Administration for Community Living (ACL), which could affect programs like Meals on Wheels. Tune in to understand how these changes may influence services for older adults and individuals with disabilities, and learn about advocacy efforts to support these vital programs.
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Medicaid at a Crossroads: Mid-March Legislative Watch
03/15/2025
Medicaid at a Crossroads: Mid-March Legislative Watch
In this episode, Katherine breaks down the latest legislative updates impacting Medicaid in Colorado and across the nation. With potential budget cuts looming, we explore what these changes could mean for individuals who rely on Medicaid for essential services — including people with disabilities, caregivers, and families. Join Katherine as she discusses the key issues, shares personal insights, and highlights ways you can stay informed and get involved. Don't miss this crucial conversation about how policy decisions today could shape the future of healthcare access.
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Welcoming Kiara to the Shining Beautiful Team
02/27/2025
Welcoming Kiara to the Shining Beautiful Team
Here's an episode description you can use: In this episode of the Shining Beautiful Series Podcast, Mikelle and Katherine introduce one of the newest members of the team—Kiara! Kiara, on the Autism Spectrum, was drawn to this role because of her mutual love of coffee and checking out the neighborhood as well as its flexibility, inclusivity, and focus on individual strengths. Mikelle and Katherine discuss what makes this job an excellent fit for Kiara, the support to help her thrive, and why inclusive employment benefits everyone. Tune in to hear how Shining Beautiful continues to create meaningful opportunities that empower individuals to shine in their own way! Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode with someone who might find it inspiring!
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The Huddle: Uniting for Inclusion – How We Come Together to Advocate for a More Inclusive World
02/11/2025
The Huddle: Uniting for Inclusion – How We Come Together to Advocate for a More Inclusive World
Episode Title: The Huddle – Teaming Up for Inclusion Inspired by Brad Pitt’s Huddle segment during the Super Bowl pre-game, Katherine recognized how a sports metaphor perfectly applies to person-centered planning, teamwork, and the foundation of the inclusion movement. In this episode, we break down the strategies that brought us together to build inclusion, why unity is more critical than ever to protect it, and how we can support each other as teammates. Just like any great team, we need to stay strong, train for the challenges ahead, and rally together to ensure that inclusion remains a lasting victory. Tune in as we explore what it means to be in the huddle and how we can all play a role in shaping a more inclusive future.
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Cuts, Freezes and the Importance of Advocacy Update.
01/29/2025
Cuts, Freezes and the Importance of Advocacy Update.
We’ll explore the details behind the Medicaid freeze, how it has been affecting individuals and families, and the potential long-term effects of these policy decisions. Plus, we’ll discuss the role of advocacy in ensuring that voices are heard and that Medicaid remains a resource for those who need it the most. Whether you're someone directly impacted by Medicaid or simply want to learn more about this crucial issue, this episode provides the clarity and insights you need. Key Topics Covered: Recent statewide Medicaid changes and their implications The White House Medicaid freeze: what it means for beneficiaries The importance of advocacy in health policy reform How you can get involved and make a difference Join us for a crucial conversation about how Medicaid is evolving and why your voice matters in this ongoing fight. Feel free to tweak or adjust any details to match your podcast's style!
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