The DirectLine

Lighthouse Cove

The DirectLine is Lighthouse Cove’s weekly podcast, and hosted by the voices behind the work. Each episode brings you closer to the real stories shaping the I/DD field, featuring DSPs, leaders, students, partners, and advocates. Through honest conversations and powerful storytelling, the DirectLine highlights the impact of our programs, the people driving change, and the relationships that move our mission forward. Whether you’re in the field or connected to the work, this is your inside look at the stories that matter most.

  1. 6d ago

    From Family Roots to Board Leadership: Ethan McPeak’s Heart for Direct Support

    In this episode of DirectLine by Lighthouse Cove, Katrina Sacay sits down with Ethan McPeak small business owner, longtime Lighthouse Cove board member, volunteer, and Booster, to talk about the personal experiences that shaped his connection to the direct support profession. Ethan shares how growing up with parents who worked in the developmental disabilities field, along with having a sister with profound disabilities, gave him a deep appreciation for the life-changing work of DSPs. He reflects on how those experiences led him to serve on Lighthouse Cove’s board, volunteer at events, and invest in the organization’s mission through giving.

    16 min

  2. Jun 11

    Credit Scores 101: Understanding Your Financial Report Card: Financial Fitness Series

    In this second episode of The DirectLine financial fitness series from Lighthouse Cove, we dive into one of the most important pieces of your financial life, your credit score. Joined by Suzanna Humbert from First Financial Bank, we break down what a credit score really is and why it matters more than you might think. From understanding FICO vs. Vantage scores, to how credit utilization and payment history impact your score, this episode makes credit feel simple, practical, and actionable. You’ll also learn: How to check your credit the right way (and what actually matters) Why closing accounts or paying off loans can temporarily lower your score Smart strategies to build or rebuild credit from scratch How secured cards and credit-building loans work How to protect yourself from fraud, identity theft, and credit damage What’s really showing up on your credit report and how to fix it Whether your credit is strong, recovering, or just getting started, this conversation gives you the tools to take control of your financial future with confidence. Suzanna Humbert has dedicated over two decades to empowering individuals on their journey to financial health and security. With more than 20 years of experience in the financial industry, Suzanna is recognized for her passion in guiding clients through all facets of personal finance—from building strong savings habits, to navigating debt management, retirement planning, and beyond. Suzanna believes that true empowerment begins with knowledge and access, working to provide the resources, tools, and compassionate support needed to help each person reach their unique goals. She has helped countless individuals and families achieve financial stability and confidence. Contact Suzanna: mailto:Suzanna.humbert@bankatfirst.com

    45 min

  3. Jun 4

    The Power of People: Amy Schneider on Leadership, Growth, and Community

    What happens when organizations intentionally invest in their people? In this episode of The Direct Line, host Becky Watson sits down with Amy Schneider, Executive Director of Wynn-Reeth to discuss the power of professional development, meaningful partnerships, and creating opportunities for staff to grow. Amy shares her journey into the disability services field, why Wynn-Reeth prioritizes leadership development and networking opportunities, and the impact programs like Leadership Launchpad, the Summit, and the DSP Recognition event have had on her team. From building confidence and strengthening workplace relationships to fostering community connections across agencies, this conversation highlights how investing in people leads to stronger organizations and better outcomes for those we support. Whether you're a DSP, supervisor, executive leader, or advocate, you'll walk away inspired to create opportunities that energize, engage, and empower your team. 🎙️ Topics include: The value of investing in staff beyond traditional training Building confidence through leadership development The importance of networking and community connections Creating a culture of growth and engagement How partnerships can spark innovation and opportunity in the IDD field Listen now and discover why empowering people is one of the most important investments an organization can make. Chapters 00:00 The Journey to Disability Field07:00 The Role of Community and Connection14:55 The Future and Exciting Opportunities

    22 min

  4. May 28

    From Classroom to Career: Real DSP Internship Stories, With Kevin Metz

    The conversation covers the experiences and insights of DSPU graduates from the Medina County Career Center. It includes discussions on their favorite parts of the program, the e-badges and CIP certification, and their recommendations for others interested in helping individuals with disabilities. The graduates also highlight the flexibility and employability that comes with the DSPU-1 and CIP certification. Takeaways Community experienceFlexibility and employability Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to the DSPU graduation event at Medina County 00:25 - The importance of student-intern relationships in DSPU 01:08 - Student Michaela shares her internship at Spokes Cafe and experiences 01:49 - Emily discusses her internships at Medina Living Unlimited and Creatively Reimagined 02:09 - Aubrey talks about her internship at Windfall Schools 02:23 - Students highlight their favorite parts of DSPU, emphasizing relationship building and community activities 02:51 - Key lessons learned: community outings like zoo visits and safety education through e-badges 03:15 - Certification benefits: DSP-1 and CIP certification's role in job flexibility and mobility 03:37 - Students share future plans, including college or working with individuals with disabilities 04:14 - Why DSPU is recommended for those passionate about helping others, especially with disabilities 05:09 - Closing remarks about the value of DSPU certifications in career advancement 05:14 - Final thoughts and recording confirmation

    4 min

  5. May 21

    Gwen Harshaw’s Story of Hope and Advocacy

    In this inspiring episode of The Direct Line, Katrina Sacay sits down with advocate, speaker, and Lighthouse Cove board member Gwen Harshaw to talk about her family’s journey after her son Zayne was diagnosed with autism at age four. After being told Zayne might never read or live independently, Gwen and her family chose hope over limitation. What followed was an extraordinary journey through music, advocacy, and inclusion. Today, Zayne is an award-winning professional guitarist and founder of the band Blue Spectrum, using music to change perceptions about autism and disability. Gwen shares powerful stories about parenting through uncertainty, discovering hidden strengths, the importance of person-centered support, and why diagnoses should never define a person’s future. The conversation also explores the impact of music therapy, community inclusion, open mic programs for people with disabilities, and the mission behind Lighthouse Cove. This episode is a moving reminder that every person deserves the opportunity to pursue purpose, passion, and connection. About Band Together Central Ohio Band Together Central Ohio (BTCO) is a monthly autism-friendly open mic in Gahanna, Ohio focused on creativity, community, and inclusion. Inspired by her son Zayne’s early experiences navigating traditional open mic environments, Gwen Harshaw created a space where performers of all abilities feel welcomed and supported. Through a partnership with the Autism Society of Pittsburgh and their Band Together program, BTCO launched in August 2022, bringing this inclusive model to Central Ohio. Tagline: Open Mic. Open Mind. Open Heart. Event Details BTCO is held on the second Sunday of each month at Gatsby’s Bar & Grill. The event welcomes musicians, poets, comedians, and performers of all experience levels. It is designed to be a sensory-aware, judgment-free environment that supports both first-time and experienced performers. Why It Matters BTCO is more than an open mic. It is helping build a more inclusive arts community by removing barriers and creating opportunities for neurodiverse individuals to share their talents and stories. Gwen’s Work Gwen Harshaw is also a consultant with the International Council on Development and Learning. ICDL is dedicated to advancing human development and is best known as the home of the DIR®/DIRFloortime® model, an evidence-based, relationship-centered approach used to support autistic individuals and others with developmental differences. Learn More and Connect Contact Gwen Harshaw: gwenharshaw@outlook.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bandtogethercentralohio/ Local coverage: Uniquely Gahanna – Resident Spotlight Band Together Central Ohio: Autism-friendly open mic held monthly

    52 min

  6. May 14

    Your Budget Doesn't Have To Be Complicated The 50-30-20 Budget Rule That Actually Works (Here's Why)

    Join us in this episode for an engaging discussion on simple, effective ways to manage your finances, clear misconceptions about budgeting, and boost your financial health with practical tips from work life specialist Susanna Humbert. Discover tools like the envelope system, the 50-30-20 rule, and actionable steps to make budgeting less intimidating and more empowering. Key topics covered: The importance of budgeting and common misconceptions The envelope system: digital vs. cash The zero-based budget and pay-yourself-first strategies Understanding and applying the 50-30-20 rule Tips to track spending without complicated apps Setting financial goals and the importance of saving for emergencies How to assess and reduce unnecessary subscriptions Personal stories about overcoming financial hurdles and building credit Resources available from First Financial Bank for free financial advice The upcoming focus on boosting credit and homeownership opportunities Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and setting the stage for financial empowerment 02:00 - Technical challenges and solutions for sharing presentations 04:00 - Guest introduction and overview of Susanna Humbert's role 06:00 - Navigating online tools and resources for budgeting 09:00 - The significance of accessible financial education 12:00 - Breakdown of the budgeting topics and upcoming series 14:00 - Introduction to the envelope and zero-based budgeting methods 16:00 - Practical tips on tracking spending with digital tools 18:00 - The 50-30-20 rule explained 22:00 - The importance of savings and handling unexpected expenses 30:00 - Creating realistic budgets and setting achievable goals 32:00 - How spending habits can be identified and improved 36:00 - Strategies for reducing unnecessary expenses 40:00 - The power of saying no and practicing financial discipline 44:00 - Tips for boosting credit scores and lowering insurance costs 48:00 - Resources from First Financial Bank for homeownership and credit 52:00 - Wrap-up, next steps, and future series preview https://www.bankatfirst.com/personal.html

    34 min

  7. May 11

    The Secret Ingredient Behind Lighthouse Coves Success: Small Teams Making Big Impact

    In this inspiring episode of The DirectLine podcast from Lighthouse Cove, we introduce Destiny Campbell, Lighthouse Cove’s new DSP-U Program Coordinator, whose journey reflects the heart of our mission and the future of the I/DD field. From her beginnings in recreation management to discovering her passion for inclusion and advocacy, Destiny shares how taking a chance led her to a deeply rewarding career. We explore the impact of the DSPU program as a powerful workforce pipeline, offering students real-world experience, mentorship, and the skills to succeed in any path they choose. Destiny reflects on her experience as a skill mentor, the importance of advocacy, and why this field matters now more than ever. Whether you’re a student, professional, or simply curious about making a difference, this episode is a reminder to step outside your comfort zone, embrace new opportunities, and—most importantly—just do the thing. What is DSP-U? DSP-U, proudly facilitated and brought to you by Lighthouse Cove is an educational program dedicated to preparing high school seniors and adult learners for rewarding careers in the Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities field as Direct Support Professionals. Students complete 60 hours of classroom instruction (Lighthouse Cove Certificate of Initial Proficiency), paired alongside 100 hours of internship experiences with I/DD providers. In addition, students demonstrate skills in specific competency areas through the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals’ (NADSP) E-Badge Academy. → Accreditation & Recognition: → Nationally recognized → Accredited by Ohio's Department of Education → Serves as an alternative pathway to high school graduation, substituting traditional testing requirements and adding to earned credits. ☎ 📧 If interested in learning more about DSP-U, please contact us for more information! Destiny Campbell DSP-U Program Coordinator dcampbell@lighthousecove.org

    25 min

  8. May 11

    Why This Ohio Innovation Has Governors Paying Attention

    A recent discussion highlighted Ohio's leadership in implementing universal changing stations, a significant step in enhancing health measures. This local news segment, featured on nbc4 columbus, showcased how legislators, including Governor DeWine, were presented with a demonstration of these essential universal changing station facilities, setting a precedent for other states. Our Executive Director Bethany Toledo recently appeared on Out N About Columbus to share the story behind Lighthouse Cove. In this segment, Bethany talks about why Lighthouse Cove was created, our mission, and how programs like DSP-U are empowering Direct Support Professionals and making a meaningful impact in the Columbus community. This educational video highlights Ohio's leadership in implementing the universal changing station initiative across the united states, as discussed with the house of representatives. This is a local news update. Paul Jarvis - Executive Director of the Ohio DD Council Bethany Toledo - Executive Director of Lighthouse Cove, can be reached at btoledo@lighthousecove.org Learn more about Lighthouse cove here: https://lighthousecove.org/

    25 min
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About

The DirectLine is Lighthouse Cove’s weekly podcast, and hosted by the voices behind the work. Each episode brings you closer to the real stories shaping the I/DD field, featuring DSPs, leaders, students, partners, and advocates. Through honest conversations and powerful storytelling, the DirectLine highlights the impact of our programs, the people driving change, and the relationships that move our mission forward. Whether you’re in the field or connected to the work, this is your inside look at the stories that matter most.

Information

  • Creator
    Lighthouse Cove
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    150
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Lighthouse Cove
  • Show Website
    The DirectLine