The Expanding Worlds Podcast

Expanding Worlds
  • 5.0 (3)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The Expanding Worlds podcast Shares Stories and Shares Solutions to expand what people believe is possible. We talk to individuals and organisations who are driving change to enable people with Additional Needs to live the independent lives they aspire to.

  1. JAN 7

    229 Beyond Resolutions: Lasting Change Built On Consistent Small Steps with Debra Caldow

    In this episode, host Debra Caldow reflects on the value of making New Year's resolutions. She discusses some of the reasons they fail, including the focus on making dramatic changes without considering daily life demands.  She suggests that rather than relying on the symbolic significance of January 1st, sustainable change requires gradual habit formation, realistic goal setting, and flexibility. Debra also talks about the importance of focusing on small, achievable actions, and celebrating progress over perfection.

    8 min

  2. 12/17/2025

    228 Effective Financial Planning To Safeguard The Future with Rhiannon Gogh

    In this episode, Debra Caldow continues her conversation with Rhiannon Gogh, a specialist financial planner, discussing the challenges around deciding who will support your child when you are no longer around. She goes on to talk about the importance of contingency planning, including the role of professional trustees vs. family members. Rhiannon also explains some of the consequences of inadequate planning and why specialized financial strategies are a necessity to protect the future of our children.  Planning With Love Book  Carers Academy – Free Resources

    11 min

  3. 12/10/2025

    227 Planning with Love: Navigating Special Needs Financial Planning with Rhiannon Gogh

    In this episode Debra Caldow talks to Rhiannon Gogh, a specialist financial planner, who talks about the importance of planning for the future of young people with additional needs. She discusses estate planning, including creating trust funds and the role of life insurance policies as well as the importance of ensuring plans are tailored to each person's unique needs. Rhiannon also explains the framework she uses to help families develop comprehensive plans which reflect their different financial situations.  Planning With Love Book Carers Academy – Free Resources

    14 min

  4. 12/03/2025

    226 Who Are We Without Them? A Parent's Reflection with Debra Caldow

    In this episode, host Debra Caldow discusses the balance between providing support and fostering independence. Drawing on her personal experience, she reflects on the challenges of co-dependency, the emotional journey of letting go, and the importance of allowing our children to become their own advocates and problem-solvers. Debra addresses the need to sometimes re-assess our motivations behind wanting to protect our children and the need to give them the space to make mistakes and grow.

    7 min

  5. 11/26/2025

    225 Brewing Opportunities: How Esteamed Coffee Transforms Lives with Julie Walker

    In this episode Debra Caldow talks to Julie Walker, from Esteamed Coffee, who explains how they provide employment and social opportunities for young people with additional needs. She discusses why the cafe's physical location and community involvement play a crucial role in its success. Julie also discusses the future of Esteamed, which will focus on developing partnerships with employers and expanding their visibility through initiatives like a coffee cart.  https://www.esteamedcoffee.com/

    14 min

  6. 11/19/2025

    224 Why Independence Isn't Linear with Debra Caldow

    In this episode, host Debra Caldow explores the concept of independence and why it might be time to redefine how we see independence and include dignity as a core component. She talks about why focusing on small, achievable goals and adaptable are useful strategies in helping developing independence.  Debra also talks about the importance of understanding that independence is not a one-size-fits-all concept, or about doing everything alone, but is about having the right support to make choices about what personal independence looks like.

    7 min

  7. 11/12/2025

    223 Encouraging Independence & Problem Solving with Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye

    In this episode, Debra Caldow continues her conversation with Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye talking about practical methods to foster independence. Gwyn discusses the importance of stepping back to avoid "learned helplessness". She also explains why recognizing our children as effective problem solvers aids their long-term goal of greater independence as adults. Gwyn also talks about the positive impact of having a long-term vision and why everyone, including educators, need to think about the future and not just the now.  https://positiveeye.co.uk/

    12 min

  8. 11/05/2025

    222 "The Woodiness of the Wooden Spoon": Learning Through Everyday Objects with Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye

    In this episode, Debra Caldow talks to Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye about her innovative approaches to teaching. She discusses why using everyday objects, like wooden spoons, enables a more holistic contextual learning experience. Gwyn also discusses her 'Marvin's Storytime Show,' which is an online literacy program designed for children with complex needs. Marvin's Storytime Show utilizes high-contrast visuals and engaging storytelling to sustain engagement.   https://positiveeye.co.uk/

    16 min
See All (230)

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

The Expanding Worlds podcast Shares Stories and Shares Solutions to expand what people believe is possible. We talk to individuals and organisations who are driving change to enable people with Additional Needs to live the independent lives they aspire to.

Information

  • Creator
    Expanding Worlds
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    230
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © c. Expanding Worlds
  • Show Website
    The Expanding Worlds Podcast