Waves of Awareness - WOA it's A Podcast

STP Productions
  • 4.9 (17)
  • NON-PROFIT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The Waves of Awareness podcast is all about the amazing work being done by Waves Inc. Waves serves individuals with mental and/or physical disabilities through life skill training, community involvement, employment training and more! This podcast is helping people learn new skills, tell their story and raise awareness for people with disabilities! Be sure to check out wavesinc.com for more information!

  1. 6D AGO

    Derek Schletzer's Why: Serving on the Waves Board

    Why Serve on a Nonprofit Board? Purpose, Community & Finding Your "Why" | Derek Schletzer What motivates someone to join a nonprofit board—and stay committed? On this episode of Waves of Awareness, Waves CEO Staci Davis is joined by Waves adults Johnny Sunshine and Jeni Tanner as they sit down with Waves board member Derek Schletzer for a meaningful (and fun!) conversation about purpose, community impact, and servant leadership. Derek shares the personal story that first connected him to Waves, the "why" behind his decision to serve on a nonprofit board, and what he's learned about leadership, advocacy, and supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). If you've ever wondered whether board service is right for you—or why community involvement matters more than ever—this conversation offers real insight without the corporate jargon. You'll also hear: Why community support is essential for nonprofits to thrive How personal experiences can shape a passion for service A favorite Waves memory that involves rhythm, connection… and a drum circle Updates from Johnny and Jeni, including an upcoming show with Backlight Productions and exciting seasonal events on the horizon This episode blends heart, humor, and practical insight into what it really means to show up for your community. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, a potential board member, a family member, or simply someone who cares about making a difference, this conversation will leave you inspired. Hit play and ride the wave with us. 🌊 ________________________________________ Learn more about Waves: wavesinc.com Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness Learn more about Spread The Positive: https://spreadthepositive.net/

    31 min

  2. JAN 28

    Quality Care at Waves: People-First Disability Services

    What does quality care really look like—and how does Waves make sure it's happening every day? On this episode of Waves of Awareness, the hosts sit down with Waves' Quality Assurance Advisor for a behind-the-scenes look at how quality assurance supports meaningful, person-centered services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. From what goes into evaluating programs to why quality matters beyond the paperwork, this conversation sheds light on the systems—and heart—behind great care. You'll also hear about exciting ways Waves is continuing to strengthen quality across its programs. Recorded live in Fairview, this episode brings high energy and plenty of personality. Waves CEO Staci Davis is joined by co-hosts Adam, Jimmy, and Stephanie from the Fairview Day Program, who share what they're looking forward to in 2026, reflect on recent holiday highlights, and add their own insights (and laughs) along the way. Thoughtful, fast-moving, and full of genuine moments, this episode blends real talk, big-picture vision, and plenty of fun. If you're curious about how quality care comes to life at Waves—or just want an engaging, feel-good listen—this one's for you. 🎧 Hit play and join the conversation. ________________________________________ Learn more about Waves: wavesinc.com Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness Learn more about Spread The Positive: https://spreadthepositive.net/

    39 min

  3. JAN 21

    Season 12 Kickoff: with Commissioner Brian Beathard

    Welcome to the Season 12 kickoff of Waves of Awareness! 🎙️ In this episode, Waves CEO Staci Davis and co-host Johnny Sunshine open the new season with a meaningful conversation featuring Brian Beathard, Williamson County Commissioner, community leader, and long-time supporter of Waves. With more than 16 years of public service—including three years as Chair of the Williamson County Commission—Brian reflects on what it means to serve locally, why local elections matter, and how strong communities are built through civic engagement and support for local nonprofits. You'll also hear a different side of Brian as he talks about Poor Lisa, the Franklin-based band you may recognize from Waves' Brews & Grooves fundraiser. Brian shares the story behind the band's name and how they've chosen to use their music to give back—supporting nonprofits and charities simply because it matters. The episode wraps with Johnny Sunshine sharing what he's most excited about in 2026—and let's just say community involvement is clearly at the top of the list. This Season 12 premiere sets the tone for what's ahead: inspiring voices, local impact, and conversations that highlight the power of showing up for one another. Hit play and join us as we kick off another season of awareness, advocacy, and community connection. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To stay up-to-date on Williamson County elections, visit: https://www.williamsoncounty-tn.gov/40/Election-Commission

    27 min

  4. 10/15/2025

    WOA Season 11 Finale: Beach Days Behind Us & Sweater Days Ahead

    🎙️ Season 11 Finale: Summer Wrap-Up & Fall Fun with the Fairview Crew! The Waves of Awareness team is closing out Season 11 in Fairview with a full house! Waves CEO Staci Davis is joined by Waves adults John, Jeni, Hannah, Jimmy, and Eric for a fun, feel-good episode that celebrates the best of summer — from favorite foods and music to must-watch movies and go-to activities. They also look ahead to what's next this fall, including recaps from our Brews & Grooves event, Jeni's exciting role in Backlight Productions' next show, and plenty of personal life updates you won't want to miss. It's the perfect mix of laughter, heart, and authentic connection that reminds us why Waves of Awareness is all about inclusion, community, and good conversation. Join us for the last episode of the season and stay tuned for details on Season 12 of Waves of Awareness.💙 🎧 Tune in wherever you listen to podcasts, or watch the full episode on YouTube! ________________________________________ Learn more about Waves: wavesinc.com Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: @Waves_of_Awareness Check out Spread The Positive: spreadthepositive.net

    31 min

  5. 10/08/2025

    From Film to Fairview: The Peanut Butter Falcon Deep Dive

    This week, we're coming to you straight from Fairview with a packed lineup of co-hosts. Waves CEO Staci Davis is joined by some of our amazing Waves adults—Johnny Sunshine, Jimmy, Jeni, Eric, Adam, and Hannah—for a lively, heartfelt, and fun conversation. Together, the crew dives into a discussion about the film The Peanut Butter Falcon before sharing their own stories, updates, and recent adventures—including highlights from the Special Olympics bowling event. From laughter to life lessons, this episode is full of personality, energy, and perspectives you won't want to miss. ✨ Whether you're here for inspiration, community, or just some genuine conversation, the Fairview crew will leave you smiling and thinking long after you hit play. ________________________________________ Learn more about Waves: wavesinc.com Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: @Waves_of_Awareness Check out Spread The Positive: spreadthepositive.net

    30 min

  6. 10/01/2025

    Little Steps, Big Impact: An Early Learning Story

    In this episode of Waves of Awareness, we're diving into the heart of early intervention and the difference it can make for families. Waves Early Interventionist Tara Gilbert joins the conversation alongside Megan and her son Beau, one of the families she serves. Together, they open up about Beau's personality, the milestones that mean the most, and what early developmental support has looked like in their journey. Our hosts—Staci Davis (Waves CEO) and the Waves adults crew (Matt, John, Eric, and Jeni)—bring their own thoughtful questions and perspectives to the table. You'll hear Megan's reflections as a parent, Tara's simple explanation of what early intervention really is, and the moments that stand out most from their time working together. Of course, no Waves of Awareness episode would be complete without life updates from our hosts—including Eric sharing how things are going at his job at Publix. 🎧 If you're a parent, caregiver, or just curious about the impact of early learning programs, this is a story you'll connect with. Hit play and join the conversation! ________________________________________ Learn more about Waves: wavesinc.com To learn more about Waves Early Learning, visit: https://wavesinc.com/early-learning-program/ Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: @Waves_of_Awareness Check out Spread The Positive: spreadthepositive.net

    45 min

  7. 09/24/2025

    Finding Ability in Every Note: Music Therapy with Meghan Davis

    This week on Waves of Awareness, we're diving into the power of music therapy with special guest Meghan Davis, founder of Music Ability Lessons. Meghan leads weekly group music therapy sessions with our Waves adults, helping them connect, grow, and express themselves through music. Her ties to Waves go even deeper—her sister Mikayla is part of our Franklin Day Program—making this conversation both professional and personal. Joining the mic are Waves CEO Staci Davis, co-hosts Matt Moore and Johnny Sunshine, plus a lively group of our Franklin Waves adults. Together, they explore: 🎶 What music therapy is (and why it matters for individuals with disabilities) 🎶 The inspiration behind Meghan's journey and her business, Music Ability Lessons 🎶 Heartwarming stories of progress and connection made possible through music As always, our Waves crew shares their own updates—including some exciting stories from Christy's job at Goodwill. ✨ If you've ever wondered how music can create breakthroughs, foster community, and bring pure joy—you'll want to hit play on this one. ________________________________________ Learn more about Waves: wavesinc.com Learn more about Music Ability Lessons here: https://www.musicabilitylessons.com/ Follow Music Ability Lessons on IG @musicabilitylessons and on FB @Music Ability Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: @Waves_of_Awareness Check out Spread The Positive: spreadthepositive.net

    35 min

  8. 09/17/2025

    Through Their Lens: Able Voices' Mission in Focus

    This week on Waves of Awareness, we're shining a spotlight on Able Voices, a nonprofit that empowers individuals with disabilities through the art of photography. 🎙️ Host Staci Davis, CEO of Waves, is joined by Matt, John, and Jeni as they welcome Jen Vogus—founder and executive director of Able Voices—along with her son Aidan and two talented photographers, Jack and Nicholas. Together, they dive into the story behind Able Voices, the power of photography as a tool for self-expression and advocacy, and the joy that comes from sharing unique perspectives through the lens of a camera. You'll also hear a few behind-the-scenes stories about Jack's and Nicholas' favorite photos, plus what has inspired Jen on this journey. Stick around until the end as John, Matt, and Jeni share their life updates and the events they're excited about—including Jeni's upcoming project with Backlight Productions. ✨ Whether you're passionate about inclusion, the arts, or simply love hearing stories that celebrate creativity and community, this episode is one you'll want to press play on. ________________________________________ Learn more about Waves: wavesinc.com Learn more about Able Voices here: https://www.ablevoices.org/ To shop through their online print store, click here: https://www.ablevoices.org/print-store Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: @Waves_of_Awareness Get your tickets for Brews & Grooves: wavesinc.com/events Check out Spread The Positive: spreadthepositive.net

    50 min
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4.9
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

The Waves of Awareness podcast is all about the amazing work being done by Waves Inc. Waves serves individuals with mental and/or physical disabilities through life skill training, community involvement, employment training and more! This podcast is helping people learn new skills, tell their story and raise awareness for people with disabilities! Be sure to check out wavesinc.com for more information!

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