Challenges and choices a special-needs perspective

Joey Pohe
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Follow Joey Pohe, your host as he goes through the challenges and choices he makes as a person with special needs. He will interview others who are involved in the special needs community.

  1. 07/07/2025

    Episode one: Exploring Orlando, Florida with DIANE Benitez

    Follow Joey as he sits down with his sister, DIANE Benitez, to explore the city of Orlando, Florida. In this episode, DIANE helps Joey learn his way around the city — from discovering must-try restaurants to learning about helpful programs and resources for people with special needs. Together, they share stories, local tips, and the meaningful ways Orlando supports inclusion, family life, and community connection. Whether you’re visiting or living in Orlando, this episode highlights places that are truly worth it! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to support Joey’s journey and amplify the voices in the special needs community.

    10 min

  2. 05/22/2024

    Ann Foyt interview Friends dance Part 1

    In this episode of "Challenges and Choices: A Special-Needs Perspective," hosts Anne Ford and Joey dive into an inspiring conversation about the Frend Dance Program, a unique initiative designed to support individuals with Down syndrome. The episode highlights the incredible opportunities for personal growth, creativity, and community building provided by this program. Anne Ford shares her heartfelt journey in advocating for individuals with Down syndrome, inspired by her personal experiences. She discusses the transformative power of dance as a medium for expression and inclusion, emphasizing how it has become a vital tool for building confidence and social connections among participants. Listeners will learn about the Frend Dance Program's mission to create a supportive environment that encourages self-expression and friendship. Joey and Anne explore the positive impact this program has had on its participants, offering a window into the joy and camaraderie fostered through dance. Throughout the episode, Anne and Joey discuss broader topics related to Down syndrome, including the importance of community support, advocacy, and celebrating the unique talents and perspectives of individuals with Down syndrome. They emphasize the role of programs like Frend Dance in empowering individuals to thrive and achieve their full potential. Join Anne Ford and Joey for this uplifting discussion and discover how you can support and celebrate the talents of individuals with Down syndrome in your community. Don't miss this opportunity to gain insights into the world of special-needs advocacy and the profound impact of dance on individuals with Down syndrome.

    16 min

  3. 05/06/2024

    Sallie Douglas Dennison interview teacher appreciation week

    When I started volunteering as an adult in the library at my old elementary school , I found out  a few of my teachers were still here.  Mrs. Dixon, and Mrs. Dennison both recognized me almost 20 years after I was in the class. Mrs Dixon remembered my name first and then Mrs. Dennison tried to put a face to the name. Once she made the connection she realized my picture was still in her classroom.  Podcast Episode Interview Title: Challenges and Choices: A Special-Needs Perspective Theme: Teacher Appreciation Week Special Host: Joey Guest: Mrs. Sally Douglas Dennison ⸻ Introduction: Welcome to our special Teacher Appreciation Week episode of "Challenges and Choices: A Special-Needs Perspective." This week, we take a moment to honor the incredible work of teachers who have made a difference in the lives of their students. Our special guest today is Mrs. Sally Douglas Dennison, a beloved teacher who has spent decades nurturing and guiding students with special needs. ⸻ Segment 1: Getting to Know Mrs. Dennison * Joey introduces Mrs. Dennison, highlighting her long-standing career in education. * Discussion about Mrs. Dennison's early days as a teacher and what inspired her to specialize in special education. Segment 2: Celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week * Joey and Mrs. Dennison talk about the significance of Teacher Appreciation Week and its impact on the teaching community. * Mrs. Dennison shares memorable moments and stories from her teaching career that have made her role rewarding. Segment 3: Challenges and Choices * Addressing the unique challenges faced by special-needs educators. * Mrs. Dennison speaks about the choices she has made in her career that have led to both personal and professional growth. Segment 4: The Importance of Special-Needs Education * Discussing the evolving landscape of special-needs education. * Mrs. Dennison talks about the importance of individualized attention and inclusive education practices. Conclusion: * Joey wraps up the episode by thanking Mrs. Dennison for her dedication and passion for teaching, especially during Teacher Appreciation Week. Listeners are encouraged to reach out and show appreciation to teachers who have impacted their lives. Call to Action: * Encourage listeners to share their own stories of influential teachers and how they’ve made a difference. Closing Remarks: * Thank you for tuning into today's special episode. Join us next time for more insightful discussions on "Challenges and Choices: A Special-Needs Perspective."

    12 min

  4. 11/29/2023

    Counting our Blessings

    Thanksgiving is a holiday, when people gather with their families and friends and count their blessings, and I did just that. Our family came in from New York and we had a great time. Our final day together was spent at Universal Orlando and that is where my podcast is coming from. I would like to thank my sister, brother-in law, mother and our cousins for being my blessings.

    6 min

  5. 11/16/2023

    SHARING THE WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER WITH THE SPECIAL NEEDS COMMUNITY

    LUMUS - “I solemnly swear I am up to no good!”Podcast Episode Summary: Exploring The Wizarding World of Harry Potter with Tressa In this magical episode of “Challenges and Choices: A Special-Needs Perspective,” host Joey dives into the enchanting universe of "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter." Joining Joey is his friend and fellow Gryffindor, Tressa. Together, they share their mutual passion for the Harry Potter series, recounting their adventures and experiences from various Harry Potter locales and Universal Studios. Tressa and Joey discuss their favorite books and movies from the series, while also reminiscing about the rides and attractions at Universal Studios that brought the magic to life. A special shoutout goes to Tressa's mom, Mary, who contributed to the episode by sharing stories from their European trip, adding another layer of wonder to their narrative. Listeners will journey with Tressa and Joey through memorable destinations and experiences, gaining insights into the allure of this beloved world. They explore how the themes of bravery and friendship resonate within the special-needs community, drawing parallels between the stories of Hogwarts and everyday life challenges. For fans of the Harry Potter series, this episode offers a nostalgic and heartfelt exploration, encouraging you to celebrate your fandom and reflect on how these stories inspire us to face our own real-world challenges with courage and camaraderie. Don't miss this special episode, featuring both audio and visual content available on YouTube for an enriched experience. Tune in to "Challenges and Choices: A Special-Needs Perspective" on Google Podcasts, Spotify, iTunes, and YouTube, and join Joey and Tressa as they cast a spell of wonder with their love for Harry Potter. Mischief Managed — NOX! Podcast Platforms: * Google Podcasts: podcasts.google.com * Spotify: open.spotify.com * iTunes: podcasts.apple.com * YouTube: youtu.be/Fm5CFGsh5dU?feature=shared Catch Joey live on Twitch: twitch.tv/joeypohe410

    33 min

  6. 11/03/2023

    The Knights of Columbus of Light of Christ Church

    Podcast Episode Summary: Knights of Columbus Charity Car Show In today's episode of "Challenges and Choices: A Special-Needs Perspective," host Joey collaborates with the Knights of Columbus organization in Clearwater at Light of Christ Church. This dedicated volunteer group discusses their upcoming charity event—a car show at St. Catherine of Siena Church on Saturday, November 4, 2023, from 10:00 AM to 2:30 PM. The car show is a thrilling competition featuring 150 cars on display, drawing car enthusiasts and community members alike for a day filled with excitement and camaraderie. Importantly, the proceeds from the event will benefit Kimberly Home, a charitable organization supporting moms and babies in our community through transitional housing and daycare services. Throughout the episode, the group dives into the logistical challenges and heartfelt joy that come with organizing and hosting this large-scale event. This includes everything from fundraising through donations, managing parking for the many cars arriving, to cooking and serving food and drinks, and selling tickets and t-shirts. The event promises to be a fun-filled day, offering plenty of outdoor activities in a highly accessible environment, welcoming hundreds of attendees each year, including many visitors with intellectual disabilities. One of the highlights following the car show is the parade of cars that drive through the streets to visit veterans' nursing homes, spreading joy and community spirit. Tune in to this engaging episode to learn more about how you can participate in or support the Knights of Columbus charity car show and contribute to this worthwhile cause benefiting Kimberly Home. Available on all major podcast platforms.

    14 min

  7. 09/03/2023

    Hogwarts Legacy

    Hogwarts Legacy is an immersive game set in the Wizarding World where players embark on a journey to uncover ancient magic. The storyline follows a boy sorted into Slytherin who befriends a visually impaired descendant of Salazar Slytherin, navigating the challenges of dark magic aspirations by characters like Sebastian Salo. The game's narrative enriches the lore of Hogwarts, founded by powerful witches and wizards, through engaging and diverse characters such as Natsai Onai, Zenobia Noke, and Poppy Sweeting. Sebastian Salo, one of the key characters, harbors a fascination with dark magic, aiming to become a formidable wizard, which instills fear among the other founders. His quest for power leads to significant events, including his banishment in pursuit of dark magic, ensuring Hogwarts' safety from such threats. The game allows players to explore the complexities of magic, friendship, and moral choices within the iconic setting of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

    1h 59m

  8. 08/22/2023

    Video game collection

    When I was a little kid, my grandpa and I would play on the computer. We would play a game called Sesame Street, and then Harry Potter games started to make their way onto the computer. Eventually, I got myself an Xbox for Christmas, which marked the beginning of my video game collection journey. My collection began to grow as I added a Game Boy Advance, followed by a PlayStation 2. Afterward, I got a portable PlayStation (PSP) and then a Nintendo Wii. The excitement of gaming led me to purchase an Xbox 360 bundle, and then an Xbox One. My enthusiasm didn't stop there; I ventured into the world of the PlayStation 3. During the COVID pandemic, I expanded my collection with a Nintendo Switch and got a copy of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, which provided a joyful escape during those times. Unfortunately, my PlayStation 3 began showing signs of wear, so I started looking around for a PlayStation 4. However, I realized it was time to move on and embrace the future of gaming by acquiring a PlayStation 5. Today, I'm excited to share my vast video game collection with you all. I'm live on Twitch – watch me at https://twitch.tv/ and join me as I dive into the fascinating world of gaming.

    13 min
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4.6
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Follow Joey Pohe, your host as he goes through the challenges and choices he makes as a person with special needs. He will interview others who are involved in the special needs community.

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