The Shining Beautiful Series Podcast

The Shining Beautiful Series
  • 5.0 (6)
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  • UPDATED SEMIMONTHLY
The Shining Beautiful Series Podcast

Listen to this podcast and discover the power of "Shining Beautiful" in life and in your community. Mikelle is perhaps the only non-verbal podcaster in the world. How does she do it? With technology. Meet Mikelle, who experiences cerebral palsy, her mother, Katherine Carol, and Gretchen Storm, speech therapist, and assistive technology guru. Together they talk about everyday life with a disability, how technology empowers people with disabilities to own their lives. This sassy team of coffee drinking techies interview technology and rehabilitation experts as they sit around the kitchen table at Mikelle's home.

  1. APR 30

    Bridging the Gap: Special Education Today and Tomorrow with Bob Barrows

    In this insightful episode of The Shining Beautiful Series Podcast, Katherine and Mikelle sits down with longtime educator, administrator, and special education consultant Bob Barrows. Together, they explore the evolving relationship between general and special education—and compare services and supports in both urban and rural settings. Drawing on his decades of experience, Bob shares what’s working, what’s not, and where innovation is taking us. T he conversation also dives into how artificial intelligence might support—or complicate—the role of special educators. Tune in as we examine the biggest challenges and emerging risks facing special education in the coming years, and what families, educators, and policymakers can do to prepare. You can find Bob @ https://www.bobbarrows.com/

    43 min

  2. APR 9

    From Page to Power: Brittany G’s Storytelling Spark

    In this inspiring episode and inn honor of last month's celebration of Cerbral Palsy Awareness, we sit down with the multitalented Brittany "Lenny" Gilbert—an author, filmmaker, and lifelong entrepreneur who’s been dreaming big since the age of sixteen. With a notebook in one hand and a pencil in the other, Lenny began crafting the stories that would shape her future. Mikelle and I dive into the making of her 2018 self-published book Rudy & Me, a heartfelt story that later blossomed into her first short film in 2022. Brittany shares her creative process, what it’s like turning words into moving pictures, and the lessons she’s learned while carving her path as a storyteller and entrepreneur. Whether you're a fellow dreamer, a lover of indie films, or someone walking the winding road of creative self-expression, this episode will remind you that beautiful things happen when you believe in your story. ✨ Tune in and get inspired by Brittany’s shining journey.

    34 min
  3. From Denver to D.C.: Updates on Medicaid & Community Living Policies

    APR 1

    From Denver to D.C.: Updates on Medicaid & Community Living Policies

    In our upcoming episode, "From Denver to D.C.: Updates on Medicaid & Community Living Policies," Katherine delves into recent policy developments impacting Medicaid and community living services at both the state and federal levels. She discusses Colorado's proposed 1.6% increase in Medicaid provider reimbursement rates amid a $1.2 billion budget shortfall, and the federal government's plan to dismantle the Administration for Community Living (ACL), which could affect programs like Meals on Wheels. Tune in to understand how these changes may influence services for older adults and individuals with disabilities, and learn about advocacy efforts to support these vital programs.

    24 min
  4. Medicaid at a Crossroads: Mid-March Legislative Watch

    MAR 15

    Medicaid at a Crossroads: Mid-March Legislative Watch

    In this episode, Katherine breaks down the latest legislative updates impacting Medicaid in Colorado and across the nation. With potential budget cuts looming, we explore what these changes could mean for individuals who rely on Medicaid for essential services — including people with disabilities, caregivers, and families. Join Katherine as she discusses the key issues, shares personal insights, and highlights ways you can stay informed and get involved. Don't miss this crucial conversation about how policy decisions today could shape the future of healthcare access.

    27 min
  5. Welcoming Kiara to the Shining Beautiful Team

    FEB 27

    Welcoming Kiara to the Shining Beautiful Team

    Here's an episode description you can use:   In this episode of the Shining Beautiful Series Podcast, Mikelle and Katherine introduce one of the newest members of the team—Kiara! Kiara, on the Autism Spectrum, was drawn to this role because of  her mutual love of coffee and checking out the neighborhood as well as its flexibility, inclusivity, and focus on individual strengths. Mikelle and Katherine discuss what makes this job an excellent fit for Kiara, the support to help her thrive, and why inclusive employment benefits everyone. Tune in to hear how Shining Beautiful continues to create meaningful opportunities that empower individuals to shine in their own way! Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode with someone who might find it inspiring!

    28 min
  6. The Huddle: Uniting for Inclusion – How We Come Together to Advocate for a More Inclusive World

    FEB 11

    The Huddle: Uniting for Inclusion – How We Come Together to Advocate for a More Inclusive World

    Episode Title: The Huddle – Teaming Up for Inclusion Inspired by Brad Pitt’s Huddle segment during the Super Bowl pre-game, Katherine recognized how a sports metaphor perfectly applies to person-centered planning, teamwork, and the foundation of the inclusion movement. In this episode, we break down the strategies that brought us together to build inclusion, why unity is more critical than ever to protect it, and how we can support each other as teammates. Just like any great team, we need to stay strong, train for the challenges ahead, and rally together to ensure that inclusion remains a lasting victory. Tune in as we explore what it means to be in the huddle and how we can all play a role in shaping a more inclusive future.

    27 min
  7. Cuts, Freezes and the Importance of Advocacy Update.

    JAN 29

    Cuts, Freezes and the Importance of Advocacy Update.

    We’ll explore the details behind the Medicaid freeze, how it has been affecting individuals and families, and the potential long-term effects of these policy decisions. Plus, we’ll discuss the role of advocacy in ensuring that voices are heard and that Medicaid remains a resource for those who need it the most. Whether you're someone directly impacted by Medicaid or simply want to learn more about this crucial issue, this episode provides the clarity and insights you need. Key Topics Covered: Recent statewide Medicaid changes and their implications The White House Medicaid freeze: what it means for beneficiaries The importance of advocacy in health policy reform How you can get involved and make a difference Join us for a crucial conversation about how Medicaid is evolving and why your voice matters in this ongoing fight. Feel free to tweak or adjust any details to match your podcast's style!

    20 min
  8. Dreams of Inclusion: A Call to Protect Medicaid and Home & Community-Based Services

    JAN 12

    Dreams of Inclusion: A Call to Protect Medicaid and Home & Community-Based Services

    In this episode of The Shining Beautiful Series, we explore the persistent dream of a world where everyone, regardless of ability, can live with dignity and access the care they need. We discuss the vital importance of Medicaid and Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) in making this dream a reality, and how these programs are essential to the independence and well-being of countless individuals. Despite challenges, the fight for inclusion continues, and we call on listeners to take action. Join us as we share insights, personal stories, and a call to contact your legislators to ensure that Medicaid and HCBS remain protected for all who rely on them. The dream of inclusion is persistent—together, we can save our services.

    14 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Listen to this podcast and discover the power of "Shining Beautiful" in life and in your community. Mikelle is perhaps the only non-verbal podcaster in the world. How does she do it? With technology. Meet Mikelle, who experiences cerebral palsy, her mother, Katherine Carol, and Gretchen Storm, speech therapist, and assistive technology guru. Together they talk about everyday life with a disability, how technology empowers people with disabilities to own their lives. This sassy team of coffee drinking techies interview technology and rehabilitation experts as they sit around the kitchen table at Mikelle's home.

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