Puzzle Pieces Podcast

Puzzle Pieces Podcast
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Non-Profit
  • Biweekly

The Puzzle Pieces Podcast brings honest conversations, practical guidance, and trusted resources to individuals with disabilities, families, caregivers, and the people who support them. Hosted by the team at Puzzle Pieces, each episode explores topics that matter—from diagnosis, education, therapies, behavior, and advocacy to independence, employment, relationships, community resources, and life beyond services. Our goal is simple: to help families feel informed, supported, and connected while creating greater understanding around disability in our community.

Episodes

  1. Nov 4

    Ep. 5 – Self-Advocacy Starts Early

    Self-advocacy is a skill that begins developing long before adulthood. But how can parents and caregivers encourage individuals with disabilities to speak up for themselves while still providing the guidance and support they need? In this episode, we're joined by Abbey Saalwaechter, who brings 25 years of experience in disability services, to discuss the importance of building self-advocacy skills from an early age. We explore how everyday choices, such as picking out clothes or deciding what to eat, can help children learn to express their wants, needs and preferences. Abbey also discusses the difference between supporting someone's voice and speaking for them, why hearing "no" is part of self-advocacy, and how parents can overcome the instinct to make every decision for their child. Self-advocacy doesn't mean always getting your way. It means having the confidence and opportunity to make your voice heard.

  2. Oct 21

    Ep. 4 - Early Intervention 101

    What should you do if you notice your child isn't meeting developmental milestones? How do you know when to seek support, and where do you start? In this episode of the Puzzle Pieces Podcast, we're joined by Kim Johnson of the Kentucky Early Intervention System (KEIS), formerly known as First Steps, to discuss early intervention services for children from birth to age 3. Kim explains how families can access a free developmental evaluation without a doctor's referral, what early intervention services look like and how providers work alongside parents to build skills through everyday routines like mealtime and playtime. We also discuss individualized goals, available therapies and the transition to preschool or other services as children approach their third birthday. Most importantly, Kim reminds families that early intervention isn't about labeling a child or focusing on developmental delays. It's about recognizing progress, celebrating growth and giving parents the tools to help their children succeed. If you have concerns about your child's development or simply want to better understand the resources available to Kentucky families, this episode is for you.

  3. Sep 30

    Ep. 3 - Understanding IEPs, 504 Plans, & School Supports

    IEPs, 504 Plans, accommodations, meetings, parent rights—navigating school supports can feel like learning an entirely new language. In Episode 3 of the Puzzle Pieces Podcast, we’re joined by Jaime Main, an educator and school guidance counselor who also brings an important perspective as the mom of a son with autism. Jaime has sat on both sides of the table during IEP meetings, giving her firsthand insight into the process as both an education professional and a parent. Together, we break down the differences between IEPs and 504 Plans, discuss the rights parents have within the school system, and share practical ways families can prepare for meetings and better understand the supports available to their child. This episode is designed to help parents walk into those conversations feeling more informed, prepared, and ready to be an active part of their child’s educational team.

  4. Sep 16

    Ep. 2 - We Have The Diagnosis. What Do We Do Now?

    Receiving a diagnosis can bring relief, fear, questions, and uncertainty all at once. In this episode of the Puzzle Pieces Podcast, Executive Director Amanda Owen is joined by Behavior Services Director Olivia Hardy for an honest conversation about what comes next. Amanda and Olivia both bring a unique perspective to the discussion as special needs siblings themselves. They talk through the first steps families can take after receiving a diagnosis, how to manage the emotions that often come with it, and how to sort through the overwhelming amount of information available. They also share practical guidance on finding trustworthy resources, building a support system, and giving yourself permission to take things one step at a time. In this episode: • First steps after receiving a diagnosis • Managing the emotions that come with it • Finding reliable, trustworthy information • Building a support system • Perspective from two special needs siblings working in the disability field

  5. Aug 21

    Ep. 1 – Why This Podcast Exists

    Welcome to the very first episode of the Puzzle Pieces Podcast! In this kickoff conversation, Executive Director Amanda Owen shares why this podcast was created and how it connects to the mission of Puzzle Pieces. Amanda gives listeners a closer look at the work happening every day to connect, empower, and include individuals with disabilities and their families. She also shares what families, caregivers, community partners, and supporters can expect from future episodes—from practical resources and expert conversations to honest discussions about the questions families are navigating. Most importantly, this podcast is meant to be a conversation. Listeners are encouraged to submit their own questions and topics they would like to hear discussed in upcoming episodes. Whether you are part of the Puzzle Pieces family, work in the disability community, or simply want to learn how to help create a more inclusive community, this is the place to start. In this episode: The mission behind Puzzle PiecesWhy this podcast was createdWhat listeners can expect from future episodesHow families can submit questions and help shape upcoming conversations

  • 5 Episodes

About

The Puzzle Pieces Podcast brings honest conversations, practical guidance, and trusted resources to individuals with disabilities, families, caregivers, and the people who support them. Hosted by the team at Puzzle Pieces, each episode explores topics that matter—from diagnosis, education, therapies, behavior, and advocacy to independence, employment, relationships, community resources, and life beyond services. Our goal is simple: to help families feel informed, supported, and connected while creating greater understanding around disability in our community.

Information

  • Creator
    Puzzle Pieces Podcast
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    5
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Puzzle Pieces Podcast
  • Show Website
    Puzzle Pieces Podcast