Unstoppable Futures

RIPIN
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Unstoppable Futures empowers young adults with disabilities through discussions on employment, self-advocacy, education, and personal development. Whether you're a young adult with a disability, a caregiver, or an advocate, tune in for insights, strategies, and inspiring stories to pave your path to success!

Episodes

  1. Embracing Smart Tech for Independence with Siera

    May 12

    Embracing Smart Tech for Independence with Siera

    In this episode, Nathan sits down with Siera, a board member of AMCSI (Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita Support Inc.) and colleague at RIPIN, for a candid conversation about living with arthrogryposis and how smart home technology is transforming daily independence for people with disabilities. Siera shares how voice-activated shades, smart light bulbs, AI meeting tools, and a walker/electric wheelchair hybrid help her navigate everyday life — and what she learned the hard way about smart tech pitfalls like company shutdowns and app compatibility. They also dive into the future of assistive technology, from eye-controlled wheelchairs to self-driving cars. Whether you’re living with a disability, a caregiver, a tech enthusiast, or someone curious about accessibility — this episode has something for you. 🔗 Learn more about AMCSI: https://amcsupport.org Chapters: 0:00 Welcome & Introducing Siera 0:20 Siera's background & AMCSI overview 1:13 What is Arthrogryposis? 2:21 Smart home tech: Voice-activated shades 4:42 Smart light bulbs & Alexa integration 5:55 Using AI tools for meeting notes 7:25 Walker/electric wheelchair hybrid (found on Walmart!) 8:30 Discovering the walker at an AMCSI conference 9:54 How AMCSI started & what the organization does 11:33 How smartphones enable independence 12:49 Robotic arms & eye-controlled wheelchairs 19:44 Augmented reality & sensor technology 21:05 Challenges setting up smart tech (app bugs & compatibility) 26:14 How disability shaped Siera's board leadership 26:35 How Siera discovered AMCSI during the pandemic 28:52 Advice for adopting smart home technology 29:50 The future of smart tech & accessibility 31:05 Funding devices through self-directed services & ORS 32:36 Final message & closing thoughts 33:54 Where to find AMCSI online 34:24 Rhode Island question: Favorite restaurant 36:01 Outro #UnstoppableFutures --- 🎧 Subscribe to Unstoppable Futures on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ripin_ri Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2uXTyhLM4da4XankkJYaUY?si=4ab9a10a02be4bbc Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unstoppable-futures/id1800815075 RSS Feed: https://anchor.fm/s/10d3602f0/podcast/rss 📩 Have a suggestion or comment about the podcast? Email: unstoppablefutures@ripin.org --- 🔗 Follow RIPIN on Social Media Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/ripin_ri Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RIPIN.ORG/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ripin_ri/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ripin_ri 📧 To contact RIPIN for any reason: Email: info@ripin.org --- ℹ️ About RIPIN Founded in 1991, RIPIN is a statewide, 501(c)(3), charitable nonprofit organization that helps any Rhode Islander—from infants to seniors—access and navigate special education and healthcare systems. RIPIN uses a Peer Professional model—75% of staff care for a loved one with a special health or education need. Services include: • A live‑answer call center • Peer‑to‑peer care management • Early Intervention parent consultants • Workshops on healthcare and special education • Leadership training for parents and youth RIPIN is: • The federally designated Parent Training and Information Center (PTIC) for Rhode Island • The official ombudsman for people with Medicare and Medicaid • A Cedar Family Center • The Rhode Island state affiliate of Family Voices, supporting children with special healthcare needs and their families

    37 min
  2. The Rachel Shandler Interview

    Feb 21

    The Rachel Shandler Interview

    Rachel Shandler of SPAN Parent Advocacy Network joins Unstoppable Futures to discuss disability advocacy, healthcare transition, and self‑advocacy. Rachel shares her journey with cerebral palsy and offers real‑world insight on navigating systems, employment, community resources, and never giving up on adulthood goals. 💬 What’s one takeaway from Rachel’s story that inspired you? 🔗 Resources Healthcare Transition to Adult Care for Youth with Disabilities: https://movingtoadulthealthcare.org Contact Rachel Shandler: rshandler@spanadvocacy.org SPAN Parent Advocacy Network: https://spanadvocacy.org Chapters 00:00 – Introduction & welcome 00:09 – Meet Rachel Shandler 00:42 – What is healthcare transition? 01:39 – Youth advisory groups & creating resources 02:17 – Why healthcare transition is often overlooked 03:06 – Growing up with strong family support 04:46 – School, expectations & inclusion 07:23 – Job searching with a disability 09:06 – Career goals & graduate school reflections 10:19 – Volunteering as a pathway to employment 11:48 – Vocational rehabilitation: tips & lessons 14:28 – Disability services in college 15:06 – Turning volunteering into a job 16:49 – Treating volunteering like a real job 17:44 – From Center for Independent Living to SPAN 18:52 – Advocacy, leadership & legislative work 20:06 – Discovering parent centers & SPAN 22:07 – Learning through lived experience 23:06 – Finding resources & self‑advocacy 26:12 – Wishing for earlier access to supports 27:01 – Youth engagement & peer support work 28:42 – Advice for overwhelmed youth & families 30:53 – Advice to her younger self 33:20 – Key takeaway message 35:05 – Where to find SPAN & healthcare transition resources 35:55 – Final thoughts & sign‑off 🎧 Subscribe to Unstoppable Futures YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ripin_ri Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2uXTyhLM4da4XankkJYaUY?si=4ab9a10a02be4bbc Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unstoppable-futures/id1800815075 RSS Feed: https://anchor.fm/s/10d3602f0/podcast/rss 📩 Have a suggestion or comment? Email: unstoppablefutures@ripin.org 🔗 Follow RIPIN Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/ripin_ri Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RIPIN.ORG/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ripin_ri/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ripin_ri 📧 Contact RIPIN: info@ripin.org

    36 min
  3. The Michael Scanlon Interview

    Jan 8

    The Michael Scanlon Interview

    [Video available on YouTube] In this enlightening episode, Nathan welcomes Michael Scanlon, the Director of Community and Partnerships at Street Smart Ventures (SSV). Michael shares his journey of overcoming personal challenges, including being a brain injury survivor and dealing with mental health issues, to become an advocate for positive change. They discuss the importance of discovery and life design in empowering individuals to live fulfilling lives. ✅ What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - Michael’s personal story of resilience and advocacy - How Street Smart Ventures empowers young adults through entrepreneurship - The importance of purpose, relationships, and life design - Practical tips for discovering your passion and building a fulfilling life - Why hands-on learning beats theory—and how SSV is changing the game 💡 Whether you’re a young adult navigating career choices, an advocate for mental health, or someone seeking inspiration to design a life you love, this conversation is packed with insights and hope. 📌 Connect with Street Smart Ventures Website: https://www.streetsmartventures.com/ Podcast: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLkK8WNPrYLS2DrDnWGmO-tzcdt4_vhEmU&si=dVNeMPMY7lY3wgUf 👍 Like, share, and comment below: What’s one takeaway from Michael’s story that inspired you? Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 04:16 Journey into Advocacy and Community Work 09:12 Lessons from Past Experiences 16:35 The Importance of Mistakes and Learning 19:02 Street Smart Ventures and Its Mission 23:27 Redefining Learning Pathways 31:01 Innovative Learning Resources 37:07 Influences and Advocacy in Personal Growth 41:29 Messages of Hope and Purpose 45:12 Food and Culture in New England 48:22 Takeaway and Closing Subscribe to Unstoppable Futures on: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ripin_ri Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2uXTyhLM4da4XankkJYaUY?si=4ab9a10a02be4bbc Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unstoppable-futures/id1800815075 RSS Feed - https://anchor.fm/s/10d3602f0/podcast/rss Have a suggestion or comment about the podcast? Email unstoppablefutures@ripin.org #UnstoppableFutures #LifeDesign #StreetSmartVentures #Entrepreneurship #MentalHealth #Advocacy #Podcast #PersonalGrowth #leadership ------------ Follow RIPIN on Social Media: Twitter: https://twitter.com/ripin_ri Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RIPIN.ORG/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ripin_ri/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ripin_ri To contact RIPIN for any reason, please email: info@ripin.org About RIPIN Founded in 1991, RIPIN is a statewide, 501(c)(3), charitable, nonprofit organization that helps any Rhode Islander, from infants to seniors, access and navigate special education and healthcare systems. RIPIN uses a Peer Professional model—75% of our staff care for a loved one with a special health or education need. RIPIN offers support via a live answer call center, peer-to-peer care management services, Early Intervention parent consultants, a curriculum of workshops on healthcare and special education topics, leadership training for parents, and much more. RIPIN is the federally-designated Parent Training and Information Center (PTIC) for the state of Rhode Island; the official ombudsman for people with Medicare and Medicaid; a Cedar Family Center and the Rhode Island state affiliate of Family Voices, providing support for children with special healthcare needs and their families.

    53 min
  4. Navigating Criticism with Autumn Johnson

    06/27/2025

    Navigating Criticism with Autumn Johnson

    [Video available on YouTube] In this episode of Unstoppable Futures, Nathan and Autumn Johnson discuss the nature of criticism, its impact on personal growth, and strategies for reframing negative feedback into constructive insights. They explore the importance of feedback in various contexts, including education and social media, and emphasize the need for self-advocacy and emotional intelligence when dealing with criticism. The conversation also touches on the balance between protecting one's mental health and remaining open to growth opportunities. Follow Autumn on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/beautybyrain__/  Chapters 00:00 Navigating Criticism: An Introduction  02:06 Understanding Feedback: The Good and the Bad  05:59 Reframing Negative Feedback 09:59 Strategies for Handling Criticism 13:56 Balancing Personal Peace and Growth 18:09 Social Media and Public Feedback 21:05 Final Thoughts and Takeaways ------------  Have a suggestion or comment about the podcast? Email unstoppablefutures@ripin.org. To contact RIPIN for any reason, please email: info@ripin.org ------------ Subscribe to Unstoppable Futures on: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ripin_ri Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2uXTyhLM4da4XankkJYaUY?si=4ab9a10a02be4bbc Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unstoppable-futures/id1800815075 RSS Feed - https://anchor.fm/s/10d3602f0/podcast/rss ------------ Follow RIPIN on Social Media: Twitter: https://twitter.com/ripin_ri Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RIPIN.ORG/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ripin_ri/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ripin_ri About RIPIN Founded in 1991, RIPIN is a statewide, 501(c)(3), charitable, nonprofit organization that helps any Rhode Islander, from infants to seniors, access and navigate special education and healthcare systems. RIPIN uses a Peer Professional model—75% of our staff care for a loved one with a special health or education need. RIPIN offers support via a live answer call center, peer-to-peer care management services, Early Intervention parent consultants, a curriculum of workshops on healthcare and special education topics, leadership training for parents, and much more. RIPIN is the federally-designated Parent Training and Information Center (PTIC) for the state of Rhode Island; the official ombudsman for people with Medicare and Medicaid; a Cedar Family Center and the Rhode Island state affiliate of Family Voices, providing support for children with special healthcare needs and their families.

    22 min
  5. Navigating Healthy Relationships with RI Cross Disability Coalition

    05/06/2025

    Navigating Healthy Relationships with RI Cross Disability Coalition

    [Video available on YouTube] In this episode of Unstoppable Futures, Nathan talks with Deanne and Tanja from the Rhode Island Cross Disability Coalition, about the importance of healthy relationships, focusing on communication, respect, and choice. They explore red flags to watch for in relationships and emphasize the need for support and resources for individuals, especially within the disability community. The conversation highlights the significance of learning from mistakes and the value of building connections with others. To contact Tanja and the RI Cross Disability Coalition visit their site at - https://www.ricrossdisability.org/ For more information on their speakers bureau check visit - https://www.ricrossdisability.org/speakers-bureau/ RIPIN's Website and Resources:  https://ripin.org/resources/category/youth/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction  01:23 Understanding Relationships 03:16 Importance of Relationships 06:23 Defining Healthy Relationships 13:11 Identifying Unhealthy Relationships 16:09 Conclusion and Resources  ------------  Have a suggestion or comment about the podcast? Email unstoppablefutures@ripin.org.  To contact RIPIN for any reason, please email: info@ripin.org ------------ Subscribe to Unstoppable Futures on:  YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ripin_ri  Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unstoppable-futures/id1800815075  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2uXTyhLM4da4XankkJYaUY?si=4ab9a10a02be4bbc RSS  Feed - https://feeds.libsyn.com/523668/rss ------------ Follow RIPIN on Social Media: Twitter: https://twitter.com/ripin_ri Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RIPIN.ORG/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ripin_ri/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ripin_ri About RIPIN Founded in 1991, RIPIN is a statewide, 501(c)(3), charitable, nonprofit organization that helps any Rhode Islander, from infants to seniors, access and navigate special education and healthcare systems. RIPIN uses a Peer Professional model—75% of our staff care for a loved one with a special health or education need. RIPIN offers support via a live answer call center, peer-to-peer care management services, Early Intervention parent consultants, a curriculum of workshops on healthcare and special education topics, leadership training for parents, and much more. RIPIN is the federally-designated Parent Training and Information Center (PTIC) for the state of Rhode Island; the official ombudsman for people with Medicare and Medicaid; a Cedar Family Center and the Rhode Island state affiliate of Family Voices, providing support for children with special healthcare needs and their families.

    19 min
  6. Unstoppable Futures Trailer

    Trailer

    Unstoppable Futures Trailer

    Unstoppable Futures empowers young adults with disabilities through discussions on advocacy for oneself and others, education, and personal development. Whether you're a young adult with a disability, a caregiver, or an advocate, tune in for insights, strategies, and inspiring stories to pave your path to success! Subscribe to Unstoppable Futures on: YouTube - https://youtube.com/@ripin_ri  Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unstoppable-futures/id1800815075 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2uXTyhLM4da4XankkJYaUY?si=4ab9a10a02be4bbc

    1 min
  7. Navigating the Journey of Self Advocacy

    12/02/2024

    Navigating the Journey of Self Advocacy

    [Video available on YouTube] In this episode of Unstoppable Futures, Nathan, Johan, and Jeremy discuss the importance of self advocacy, particularly for youth and young adults. They explore what self advocacy means, how to effectively advocate for oneself and others, and the resources available for learning these skills. The conversation emphasizes the significance of sharing personal stories, building a support network, and the challenges of misinformation in today's digital age and the importance of staying informed and curious. The hosts encourage listeners to practice advocacy in smaller settings and to always seek help when needed.  Connect with SPAN: Youth Hub: https://thespanyouthhub.blogspot.com/  Podcast: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGXju3IK5UOUBG3sB6nMkAQyLreaw7CRI&si=D1jW0_ImNLpUpq8A  Website: https://spanadvocacy.org/programs/youth-in-the-know/  RIPIN's Resources on self advocacy:  https://ripin.org/resources/category/youth/self_advocacy/  Chapters 00:00 Introductions 01:14 What is self advocacy? 03:11 Advice for Learning Self Advocacy 10:35 Sharing Personal Stories 13:11 Self-Advocacy in Educational Settings 19:08 Navigating Advocacy from School to College 21:00 Advocacy in Everyday Life 21:14 Staying Informed and Curious 29:08 Advocacy Resources and Community Engagement 35:11 Closing Subscribe to Unstoppable Futures on: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ripin_ri Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2uXTyhLM4da4XankkJYaUY?si=cc631b07ac174255 Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unstoppable-futures/id1800815075 RSS Feed - https://anchor.fm/s/10d3602f0/podcast/rss Have a suggestion or comment about the podcast? Email ⁠unstoppablefutures@ripin.org⁠.  ------------ Follow RIPIN on Social Media: Twitter: https://twitter.com/ripin_ri  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RIPIN.ORG/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ripin_ri/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ripin_ri  To contact RIPIN for any reason, please email: info@ripin.org⁠   About RIPIN Founded in 1991, RIPIN is a statewide, 501(c)(3), charitable, nonprofit organization that helps any Rhode Islander, from infants to seniors, access and navigate special education and healthcare systems. RIPIN uses a Peer Professional model—75% of our staff care for a loved one with a special health or education need. RIPIN offers support via a live answer call center, peer-to-peer care management services, Early Intervention parent consultants, a curriculum of workshops on healthcare and special education topics, leadership training for parents, and much more. RIPIN is the federally-designated Parent Training and Information Center (PTIC) for the state of Rhode Island; the official ombudsman for people with Medicare and Medicaid; a Cedar Family Center and the Rhode Island state affiliate of Family Voices, providing support for children with special healthcare needs and their families.

    36 min
  8. Who is Advocates in Action?

    04/15/2024

    Who is Advocates in Action?

    On this first episode of Unstoppable Futures, we talked with Advocates in Action Rhode Island. Who are they? What do they do? We talk about their upcoming two-day 2024 Self-Advocacy Conference on May 9 and 10, 2024, what to expect, and more. Enjoy!  Learn more about the conference and how to register on their website at: https://www.advocatesinaction.org/2024SAConf.php  Advocates in Action Website: https://www.advocatesinaction.org/index.php  Do you have a question or a future topic for the show? Email unstoppablefutures@ripin.org  To learn more about RIPIN and how they can help you visit https://ripin.org About RIPIN Founded in 1991, RIPIN is a statewide, 501(c)(3), charitable, nonprofit organization that helps any Rhode Islander, from infants to seniors, access and navigate special education and healthcare systems. RIPIN uses a Peer Professional model—75% of our staff care for a loved one with a special health or education need. RIPIN offers support via a live answer call center, peer-to-peer care management services, Early Intervention parent consultants, a curriculum of workshops on healthcare and special education topics, leadership training for parents, and much more. RIPIN is the federally-designated Parent Training and Information Center (PTIC) for the state of Rhode Island; the official ombudsman for people with Medicare and Medicaid; a Cedar Family Center and the Rhode Island state affiliate of Family Voices, providing support for children with special healthcare needs and their families.

    20 min

Trailer

About

Unstoppable Futures empowers young adults with disabilities through discussions on employment, self-advocacy, education, and personal development. Whether you're a young adult with a disability, a caregiver, or an advocate, tune in for insights, strategies, and inspiring stories to pave your path to success!

Information

  • Creator
    RIPIN
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    8
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © RIPIN
  • Show Website
    Unstoppable Futures