American Dream Employment Network Podcast Series National Disability Institute

In this episode, you'll hear from Rebecca Blaine as she shares her journey of transitioning back to work after overcoming stage 3 cancer and Lynch Syndrome while on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). With help from the American Dream Employment Network (ADEN) and the Ticket to Work program, Rebecca successfully returned to work as an executive field agent for the American Kennel Club. Despite initial setbacks and challenges, Rebecca's determination, along with the support of her family, friends, and ADEN, allowed her to achieve financial stability and even purchase a home. Her story serves as an encouragement to others on SSDI, showing that self-sufficiency is possible with the right support and resources.

On this inspirational episode of the American Dream Employment Network podcast, host Kevin Nickerson has an uplifting conversation with Paul Guerreso, an engineer who rebuilt his life and career after suffering a devastating spinal injury. Paul shares his incredible journey of healing and determination to return to full-time employment, crediting resources like Social Security disability benefits and the support of his job coach for making his comeback possible. Now working on NASA’s Artemis project to send astronauts back to the moon, Paul offers encouragement and advice for other disability beneficiaries seeking their own path back to work, urging them to persist through setbacks because with the right mindset and support system, their professional dreams can still be achieved.

This episode features a conversation with Ian Foley, a certified rehabilitation counselor who shares his personal and professional journey of assisting individuals with disabilities in returning to work. Ian discusses his experience living with a visual impairment, the challenges it presented in his own career, and how it enables him to empathize with ADEN participants. He explains the rewarding aspects of guiding clients through the Ticket to Work program as an ADEN provider, including long-term career counseling, benefits advisement, and witnessing their success. He also offers advice on building a steady ADEN business and encourages employment service providers to consider this autonomous, flexible work.

This episode features a conversation with Aron Gerson, who shares his journey of returning to full-time work after receiving Social Security disability benefits. Aron describes the challenges of living on a fixed income and his motivation to gain financial independence. He credits ADEN for guiding him through the Ticket to Work program and teaching him job search skills that led to his current role in the Connecticut Department of Social Services. Aron also offers advice on disclosing a disability, utilizing work incentives, and persevering throughout the transition off benefits.

The American Dream Employment Network (ADEN) podcast introduces the employment service designed to help individuals receiving Social Security disability benefits return to work. Discover the history and mission behind ADEN, an innovative nationwide network of employment service providers. You'll also learn how ADEN's model as a national administrative employment network under Social Security's Ticket to Work program helps break down barriers to employment for beneficiaries.