Independent Idaho

Living Independence Network Corporation

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Society & Culture
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Independent Idaho is a podcast dedicated to the exploration of all things disability in the Gem State and beyond. Independent Idaho is a production of the Living Independence Network Corporation, one of Idaho's three Centers for Independent Living. Our mission is to empower Idahoans with disabilities across the lifespan to achieve our desired level of independence.

3d ago

Connecting Communities to Care with Keith Mason

Episode Description What does a health plan really do beyond paying medical bills? For Keith Mason, healthcare is about helping people stay healthy, remain independent, and connect with the services and supports they need to live their best lives. As CEO of UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Idaho, Keith leads a team focused on improving health outcomes for some of Idaho's most vulnerable residents, including older adults and people with disabilities. In this episode of Independent Idaho, Jeremy sits down with Keith to discuss his journey from Indiana to Idaho, what drew him to a career centered on advocacy and community health, and how managed care is evolving to address the whole person—not just their medical needs. Together, they explore the importance of community partnerships, person-centered care, and why healthcare works best when it extends beyond the walls of a doctor's office. Along the way, Keith shares his perspective on the unique challenges facing Idaho's rural communities, the role of prevention in improving quality of life, and why investing in housing, transportation, and other social supports can have just as much impact on health as clinical care. Whether you're a person with a disability, a caregiver, a healthcare professional, or simply curious about how healthcare is changing, this conversation offers an inside look at how collaboration and innovation are helping build healthier, more connected communities across Idaho. Keith Mason is the Chief Executive Officer of UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Idaho, where he leads a team committed to connecting people and communities to care. The health plan serves Idahoans who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid through Idaho Medicaid Plus (IMPlus) and the Medicare Medicaid Coordinated Plan (MMCP). Keith has spent nearly a decade with UnitedHealthcare, serving in leadership roles focused on advocacy, strategy, and community engagement before becoming CEO of the Idaho market. Prior to UnitedHealthcare, he held leadership positions with the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association and Eli Lilly and Company, building partnerships that advanced public health and patient advocacy. Keith earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Wabash College and a Master of Science in Secondary Education from Indiana University Bloomington. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking and spending time with his family. Learn more about UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Idaho and the programs available to eligible Idahoans through Idaho Medicaid Plus (IMPlus) and the Medicare Medicaid Coordinated Plan (MMCP). About Our Guest Keith Mason is the Chief Executive Officer of UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Idaho, where he leads a team committed to connecting people and communities to care. The health plan serves Idahoans who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid through Idaho Medicaid Plus (IMPlus) and the Medicare Medicaid Coordinated Plan (MMCP). Keith has spent nearly a decade with UnitedHealthcare, serving in leadership roles focused on advocacy, strategy, and community engagement before becoming CEO of the Idaho market. Prior to UnitedHealthcare, he held leadership positions with the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association and Eli Lilly and Company, building partnerships that advanced public health and patient advocacy. Keith earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Wabash College and a Master of Science in Secondary Education from Indiana University Bloomington. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking and spending time with his family. Learn more about UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Idaho and the programs available to eligible Idahoans through Idaho Medicaid Plus (IMPlus) and the Medicare Medicaid Coordinated Plan (MMCP).
Aug 10

The Infrastructure of Inclusion with Sean Kelly

Episode Description What does it take to make a community truly accessible? In this episode of Independent Idaho, Jeremy sits down with Sean Kelly, Accessibility and Mobility Specialist and Certified ADA Coordinator for the Ada County Highway District (ACHD). Sean's path to accessibility has been anything but ordinary—from serving in the U.S. Army as a counterterrorism and intelligence professional to studying philosophy, sociology, and community planning, and ultimately helping shape the way people move safely and independently throughout Ada County. Sean explains how accessibility extends far beyond curb ramps and sidewalks. The conversation explores how thoughtful planning, engineering, and community engagement create public spaces that work better for everyone—including people with disabilities, older adults, parents with strollers, cyclists, and pedestrians. Jeremy and Sean also discuss the role of ACHD's ADA Program, the importance of listening to community members, and how accessibility is increasingly becoming a core part of transportation planning rather than an afterthought. They also touch on the work of ACHD's ADA Advisory Committee, how residents can help identify barriers, and the progress being made to improve access throughout the region. Whether you're interested in transportation, city planning, disability rights, or simply creating communities where everyone can participate, this episode offers an inside look at the work of building a more accessible Idaho. About Our Guest Sean Kelly serves as the Accessibility and Mobility Specialist and Certified ADA Coordinator for the Ada County Highway District (ACHD), where he works to ensure that streets, sidewalks, intersections, and other elements of the public right of way are accessible to everyone. Sean grew up in the south suburbs of Chicago before joining the U.S. Army in 1995. Although he began his military career as an artilleryman, he spent most of his service as a counterterrorism and intelligence professional, deploying to Iraq and Afghanistan. After retiring from the Army, he attended Boise State University, earning degrees in Philosophy and Sociology before completing a Master of Community and Regional Planning. Before joining ACHD in 2023, Sean administered a Community Development Block Grant program for the City of Meridian, worked for a nonprofit supporting veterans' mental health, traveled internationally as a video game content creator, and even spent a year as a stay-at-home father after adopting his young son. Today, Sean combines his diverse experiences in public service, planning, and leadership to help build transportation systems that are safer, more inclusive, and accessible for everyone. Learn more about ACHD and share your feedback through ACHD Connect.
Aug 3

Every Swing Counts with Mike Barnett

Episode Description What happens when the biggest obstacles aren't on the golf course—but in gaining access to the game itself? In this episode of Independent Idaho, Jeremy sits down with Mike Barnett, a Navy veteran, adaptive golfer, actor, and creator of the YouTube channel Golfing with a Disability. Mike shares his journey into adaptive golf, the barriers he encountered along the way, and the determination it took to help make the sport more accessible in Idaho. The conversation explores the realities of advocating for inclusion in recreation and why access to sports matters for people with disabilities. Whether you're a golfer, an advocate, or simply someone who believes everyone deserves the opportunity to participate in the activities they love, this episode is a conversation about perseverance, inclusion, and the power of refusing to accept unnecessary barriers. About Our Guest Mike Barnett grew up in a military family and spent much of his childhood in Mountain Home, Idaho. After serving four years in the U.S. Navy, he worked in a variety of roles before finishing his career at the VA Medical Center in Boise. Today, Mike is an advocate for adaptive sports and the creator of the YouTube channel Golfing with a Disability, where he shares his experiences, promotes adaptive golf, and works to increase awareness and inclusion for golfers with disabilities. Through his videos and community outreach, Mike is helping break down barriers and demonstrate that disability should never prevent someone from enjoying the game of golf. When he's not on the golf course, Mike enjoys acting and continuing to advocate for greater accessibility and opportunities for people with disabilities. Check out Mike's YouTube Channel, Golfing with a Disability, to learn more.
Jul 28

It Takes a Village with Sam Picciano

Episode Description What does it really mean to navigate the world without relying on your vision? In this episode of Independent Idaho, Jeremy sits down with Sam Picciano, a Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist, educator, and co-founder of Vision Village. Sam shares how she helps people with vision loss develop the skills and confidence to travel safely, solve everyday challenges, and live more independently. The conversation explores Sam's innovative work providing virtual orientation and mobility instruction to students in rural communities, where access to certified specialists is often limited. She explains how technology is helping bridge service gaps while ensuring students receive the training they need to navigate their homes, schools, and communities safely. Jeremy and Sam also discuss Vision Village, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering people with vision loss and their families through creative programming, practical education, and meaningful community connections. From online resources to local events, Vision Village is reimagining how people learn, build confidence, and support one another through every stage of their journey. Whether you're living with vision loss, supporting a family member, working in education or rehabilitation, or simply interested in building more inclusive communities, this episode offers an inspiring look at the power of practical solutions, innovation, and community. About Our Guest Sam Picciano grew up in Coconut Creek, Florida, and spent much of her life exploring the waterways and natural landscapes of the Southeast. She earned her bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida before completing graduate studies in Visual Disabilities Education at Florida State University. As her career evolved, Sam developed a passion for improving the systems and programs that serve people with disabilities, leading her to earn an MBA. Today, Sam is a Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS) who provides virtual orientation and mobility instruction to students in rural school districts through Family First Education Services. She teaches long white cane skills, route planning, mapping, problem-solving, and safe travel techniques while also supporting schools through staff development, IEP team training, and compliance. Sam is also the co-founder of Vision Village, whose mission is to empower people with vision loss and their families through creative programming, practical education, and community connection. Vision Village combines innovative online resources with local, in-person programming to help individuals build real-world skills, solve everyday challenges, and create lasting connections with others who share similar experiences. Outside of work, Sam enjoys hiking to mountain peaks and alpine lakes, mountain biking, and continuing to embrace Idaho's outdoor lifestyle. Before beginning her career in blindness and low vision services, she spent years training and teaching USA Goju, a traditional Japanese martial art, an experience that helped shape the discipline, resilience, and teaching philosophy she brings to her work today. Check out Vision Village to learn more.
Jul 20

The Work of Independence with Dianna Willis

Episode Description What happens when life changes in an instant, or slowly over time? For Dianna Willis, blindness didn't end her career or her ability to make a difference—it gave her a new perspective on what true independence and inclusion can look like. In this episode of Independent Idaho, Jeremy sits down with Dianna to discuss her journey of adapting to blindness, returning to the workforce, and becoming a leader in disability advocacy. Together they explore what it means to remove barriers instead of expecting people to overcome them, why employment is such an important part of independence, and how creating accessible communities benefits everyone. Along the way, Dianna also shares what life is really like working alongside her guide dog, Babs, and why disability is often less about a person's impairment than the systems and environments around them. Whether you live with a disability, work alongside someone who does, or simply want to build more welcoming communities, this conversation offers practical insights and an inspiring reminder that independence isn't about doing everything alone—it's about having the opportunity to participate fully. About Our Guest Dianna Willis (M.Ed., M.A., WIP-C) is a Vocational Specialist with Living Independence Network Corporation (LINC), where she helps people with disabilities pursue employment and financial independence as a credentialed Work Incentives Practitioner through Cornell University. She also serves as Board President and co-founder of the Idaho Access Project, a nonprofit working to create accessible communities through authentic community engagement. In addition, Dianna serves on the City of Boise's Cross-Disability Task Force, helping shape a more inclusive future through systems-level change. Living with blindness herself, Dianna brings both lived experience and professional expertise to every aspect of her work advocating for greater independence and opportunity for people with disabilities. Check out the LINC and Idaho Access Project websites.
Jul 13

The Invisible Injury with Stefanie Shadduck

Episode Description What if the most life-changing injury is one that no one can see? In this episode of Independent Idaho, Jeremy sits down with Stefanie Shadduck, Traumatic Brain Injury Program Director at Idaho State University, to discuss the realities of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and why it is often called the "invisible injury." From concussions and falls to motor vehicle crashes and military service, traumatic brain injuries affect thousands of Idahoans every year. Yet many people never receive a diagnosis, struggle to find resources, or don't realize that ongoing memory, concentration, fatigue, or emotional changes may be connected to a brain injury. Stefanie shares how Idaho is working to improve TBI screening, connect people with resources, and strengthen systems of care—especially in rural communities where services can be difficult to access. She also reflects on her own experience with "chemo brain" during cancer treatment, offering a deeply personal perspective on what it feels like to live with an invisible cognitive challenge. This conversation explores resilience, recovery, and the importance of building communities and systems that help people thrive after brain injury. About Our Guest Stefanie Shadduck is the Traumatic Brain Injury Program Director at Idaho State University, where she leads statewide efforts to improve access to TBI resources through education, systems coordination, and community partnerships. Her work focuses on helping individuals, families, healthcare providers, and organizations better navigate the complex landscape of brain injury services across Idaho. She also trains university students to recognize traumatic brain injuries and connects them with communities through outreach and health fairs. Drawing on both professional expertise and personal experience with cognitive challenges during cancer treatment, Stefanie brings a compassionate and practical perspective to conversations about brain health, recovery, and independence. You can learn more at Idaho Traumatic Brain Injury Program and the Brain Injury Association of Idaho. Email Stefanie at stefanieshadduck@isu.edu.
Jul 6

The Road to Independence with Amber Beall

Episode Description For many Idahoans, driving isn't just about getting from one place to another—it's the key to employment, healthcare, family, and independence. Until now, however, Idaho has had limited access to specialized driving rehabilitation services for people whose disabilities, injuries, or medical conditions affect their ability to drive. In this episode of Independent Idaho, Jeremy sits down with Amber Beall, founder of Adaptive Driving Idaho, to discuss the launch of this much-needed service and what it means for people across the state. Amber shares her journey as an occupational therapist specializing in neurological rehabilitation and explains how her work helps individuals evaluate whether they can safely continue driving, return to driving after injury or illness, or explore adaptive equipment that makes driving possible again. From stroke and traumatic brain injury to spinal cord injury, vision changes, and age-related conditions, this conversation explores how adaptive driving opens doors to greater independence and community participation for Idahoans. Whether you're a healthcare professional, someone living with a disability, or simply curious about how adaptive driving works, this episode offers an inside look at an exciting new resource now available in Idaho. About Our Guest Amber Beall, MS, OTR/L, DRS, is the founder of Adaptive Driving Idaho and an occupational therapist with more than a decade of experience in neurological rehabilitation. She is a Driving Rehabilitation Specialist (DRS), Certified Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist (CSRS), and Certified Functional Vision Rehabilitation Specialist (CFVRS). Throughout her career, Amber has worked with individuals recovering from stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, and other neurological conditions, helping them return to meaningful daily activities—including driving. As a Boise native, Amber is passionate about expanding access to adaptive driving services and helping Idahoans maintain their independence, safety, and connection to their communities. Check out Adaptive Driving Idaho for more information.
Jun 29

A Dude Who Just Wants to Stay in His Home with Randy Nilson

Randy Nilson spent decades working, saving, paying taxes, and building a life in Idaho. After being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), he adapted to changing mobility needs and continued working for many years. Today, despite living modestly and wanting nothing more than to remain in his own home, Medicaid policies put him at risk of losing the independence he worked so hard to maintain. In this episode, Randy shares his personal journey and discusses the challenges many older adults and people with disabilities face when trying to age in place and remain part of their communities. His story highlights important questions about disability, long-term care, public policy, and what it truly takes to live independently.

Independent Idaho is a podcast dedicated to the exploration of all things disability in the Gem State and beyond. Independent Idaho is a production of the Living Independence Network Corporation, one of Idaho's three Centers for Independent Living. Our mission is to empower Idahoans with disabilities across the lifespan to achieve our desired level of independence.

Creator

Living Independence Network Corporation
Years Active

2023 - 2026
Episodes

45
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Living Independence Network Corporation
Show Website

Independent Idaho