Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Nonprofit Leader's Guide by Boundless

Recent headlines suggested a link between acetaminophen during pregnancy and autism or ADHD, sparking fear and second-guessing. We dig into what the studies actually say, why association is not causation, and how large sibling-based analyses change the picture. 

Boundless Medical Director Dr. Cynthia Ripsin and State Director of Behavioral Health and Education Services Kendra Hill join host, Scott Light, to talk plainly about fever risk in pregnancy, the role of safe treatment, and how sensational messaging and media coverage can backfire when it pushes parents away from evidence-based care.

Our conversation walks through how we answer one of if not the hardest question we hear as of late: Did Tylenol cause my child’s autism? The short answer is no. The fuller answer starts with listening. We trace how people heard the news, clarify the language used in studies, and rebuild trust by explaining methods and what robust population data can and cannot prove. Along the way, we confront confirmation bias, the pull of social media, and the lasting shadow of long debunked vaccine-autism claim.

This episode also explores identity and support: why some people embrace difference over disability, why others face real disability from co-occurring intellectual or language challenges.  Plus, how to respect both realities. Then we examine new treatment chatter around folinic acid, separating legitimate uses from overhyped generalizations. Our goal is practical and compassionate: help families make safer choices, understand study quality, and navigate care without shame or blame.

If clear, steady guidance is what you need amid the noise, you’re in the right place with Boundless. Subscribe, share this with someone who’s worried, and leave a review to help more families find credible, compassionate advice grounded in evidence.

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Rebranding a nonprofit isn’t about swapping logos or picking trendier colors— it’s about removing friction between people and the help they need. We sit down with three dynamic marketing leaders who have guided large behavioral health and human services organizations through bold transformations, unifying dozens of legacy brands, clarifying their promise, and building trust where it counts: at the front door to care. Your team can learn so much from this team of experts:  Renee Stein, VP of Marketing and Communications at Boundless, Jana Greig, EVP of Administration at Brightli, and Whitney McChane, Chief Marketing Officer at Clarvida.  

These vastly accomplished executives explore the practical “fourth leg” of brand beyond positioning, identity, and message: consistency. You’ll hear how disciplined, research‑driven choices led one team to retire 27 names in favor of a single, bilingual brand designed to feel warm, human, and memorable in a sea of clinical lookalikes. Another guest shares the path to becoming the nation’s largest nonprofit behavioral health provider under one name, and why internal alignment—across leaders, clinicians, and support staff—made the difference between a clever concept and a living, breathing brand.

Storytelling sits at the center of the work. We dig into employee‑generated content that outperforms polished videos, including the tools and prompts that make it scalable. We highlight a traveling portrait exhibit that invites people to tell their own mental health stories, reducing stigma and sparking action. Along the way, we connect data to human impact, reframing marketing as part of the continuum of care: informed campaigns raise awareness, lower barriers, and turn curiosity into contact.

Plus, don’t miss our 'Mission Moment' on inclusive outreach roles that unlock new revenue and representation in the community. If this conversation gave you a useful idea or two, follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a quick review to help more nonprofit leaders find it.

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"Criticism is the cost of entry to success. Most people aren't willing to pay it." This powerful quote sets the stage for a compelling conversation about why nonprofits must embrace business principles to thrive in today's complex landscape.

Our expert panel features Chris Wolf (COO at I Am Boundless), Rich Yanoski (Corporate VP at Merakey), and James Button (President/CEO of Citizens Advocates) – seasoned leaders who've navigated both for-profit and nonprofit worlds. Together, they dismantle the persistent myth that compassion and business acumen can't coexist in mission-driven organizations.

The conversation tackles head-on why nonprofits are sometimes perceived as "well-intentioned but not well-equipped" to operate with rigor. Our guests argue that effective leadership requires holding tension between passion and pragmatism, making tough calls while staying true to mission. They share practical frameworks for evaluating opportunities, knowing when to invest resources, and recognizing when to walk away from initiatives that aren't creating sufficient impact.

Marketing emerges as a particularly crucial yet undervalued function in the nonprofit world. As James notes, "There are people who think marketing is an added expense or perhaps a perk or frill, and it really isn't. It's foundational to what we're doing." 

Whether you're an executive director, board member, or emerging nonprofit leader, you'll gain valuable insights about developing stronger business cases, leveraging data effectively, and building organizations that combine passionate advocacy with disciplined operations. As Chris reminds us, "Mission impact is our profit" – and maximizing that impact requires both heart and business savvy.

Subscribe now and join us next month when we explore the power of storytelling to achieve better visibility and attract donors, clients, and partners to your cause.

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Nonprofit organizations face unprecedented challenges in today's uncertain environment. With financial pressures mounting and workforce shortages continuing, many organizations are exploring strategic partnerships as a path forward. But what separates successful nonprofit mergers from failed ones?

The answer lies in mission alignment. The most effective mergers begin not from financial desperation but from a shared vision of expanding impact and improving service quality. As one expert puts it, these partnerships create situations where "one plus one equals three" - allowing organizations to serve more people, improve quality, expand reach, and innovate in ways they couldn't accomplish alone.

Take the case of three small IDD providers in Maine who recently merged to become the state's largest provider organization. By combining forces, they've retained their local community presence while upgrading technology, improving benefits, and enhancing service consistency. This exemplifies how thoughtful mergers can preserve and strengthen an organization's mission rather than diminish it.

Getting there requires navigating complex human dynamics. Boards must transition from routine oversight to strategic leadership, which means creating focused task forces, providing education about the merger process, and ensuring members don't let personal fears derail progress. Staff communication presents equally delicate challenges – share information too early, and you risk unnecessary anxiety; share too late, and you undermine trust essential for successful integration.

Outside expertise proves invaluable throughout this journey. Beyond technical specialists in legal, financial, and HR matters, strategic advisors who understand nonprofit culture can keep everyone focused on the mission when tensions rise. They serve as both architects and confidants, providing CEOs a safe space to express concerns they can't share with their teams.

As we navigate this challenging landscape, remember: "You're either at the table or you're on the menu." Having a growth strategy isn't optional anymore. The most successful organizations proactively seek partnerships that allow their missions to flourish beyond any individual leader's tenure. Join us to learn how your organization can approach mergers as strategic evolution rather than surrender.

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Navigating nonprofit mergers requires strategic vision, cultural alignment, and unwavering focus on mission. Diane Beastrom, consultant and former CEO of Koinonia, takes us behind the scenes of a successful merger that dramatically expanded services for people with developmental disabilities.

After leading Koinonia for decades and orchestrating several acquisitions, Diane faced a pivotal decision: despite emerging from COVID in a position of strength, the organization needed to expand behavioral health and mental health services. "Going alone was not going to be the best way for the people we support or for our employees," she explains. This realization led to seeking a larger partner already delivering these specialized services.

The merger between Koinonia and Boundless demonstrates how thoughtful integration can benefit everyone involved. All Koinonia employees were retained and immediately received enhanced benefits and compensation. Clients gained access to expanded behavioral health supports and a beautiful new day center. Behind these successes were careful attention to cultural compatibility, transparent communication about leadership transitions, and early resolution of potential sticking points like board composition and organizational naming.

Diane offers invaluable guidance for nonprofit executives contemplating similar moves: engage specialized consultants early, prepare your Board thoroughly, and shift perspective from "what are we giving up?" to the expanded mission impact possible through strategic partnerships. Her refreshing take on legacy reminds us that organizational names and buildings matter less than sustainable services to those who need it most. 

Whether you're leading a nonprofit considering strategic partnerships or simply interested in how mission-driven organizations evolve to meet changing needs, this conversation offers practical wisdom from someone who's successfully navigated the complex terrain of nonprofit mergers.

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Nonprofit mergers and partnerships aren't just survival tactics—they're strategic opportunities to multiply impact and secure long-term sustainability. This compelling conversation with Jennifer Riha, Chief Strategy Officer, and Trent Stechschulte, Chief Legal Officer at Boundless, unveils how strategic growth has transformed their organization's ability to fulfill its mission of realizing the boundless potential of all people.

Today's health and human services organizations face a perfect storm: skyrocketing demand for services while resources and qualified staff become increasingly scarce. Against this backdrop, Boundless has pioneered a proactive approach to partnerships that challenges traditional nonprofit thinking. As Trent memorably states, "not-for-profit is a tax status with the IRS—not a business plan."

Jennifer shares how strategic mergers have expanded Boundless from serving specific populations in limited areas to reaching over 6,000 individuals annually across Ohio. Their sophisticated partnership toolkit—including scoring systems for potential partners and comprehensive integration planning—ensures these unions truly amplify impact rather than simply combining assets. The results speak volumes: when Koinonia joined Boundless in 2023, staff immediately received higher wages and better benefits, while clients gained access to specialized services previously unavailable in their region.

Perhaps most compelling is how these partnerships create the financial leverage needed for innovation. With nonprofit margins typically under 5%, organic growth alone can't generate sufficient resources for technological advancement or program expansion. Strategic partnerships create the scale necessary to invest in the future.    Curious how your organization might benefit from strategic partnerships? Listen now to discover practical insights on building a more sustainable, impactful future for your nonprofit mission.

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The autism conversation in America is at a critical turning point. As public figures make sweeping statements about vaccines, research quality, and the capabilities of autistic individuals, our experts step in to separate fact from fiction with clarity and compassion.

Dr. Karen Lindgren and Dr. Cynthia Ripsin bring over 50 years of combined clinical experience to dismantle persistent myths—most notably the thoroughly debunked vaccine-autism connection that originated from a fraudulent 12-person study. They explain why studies of over two million children have conclusively found no link, yet misinformation continues to influence healthcare decisions.

The conversation dives into the remarkable diversity within autism, challenging simplistic characterizations that paint all autistic individuals with the same brush. From individuals requiring 24-hour support to those independently building careers and relationships, the spectrum defies easy generalizations. This variance extends to healthcare needs, where standard medical environments can create barriers through sensory overload, communication challenges, and rigid procedures.

Particularly enlightening is the discussion of "profound autism"—a term describing individuals with significant support needs who represent over 30% of the autistic population yet receive less than 6% of research attention. 

The experts also unpack the reported five-fold increase in autism rates since 2000, explaining how improved screening, broader diagnostic criteria, and increased awareness—particularly among previously overlooked populations like girls and women—have dramatically shaped these statistics.

What emerges is a call for nuanced understanding, targeted research that addresses the full spectrum of needs, and healthcare systems designed with neurodiversity in mind. Rather than focusing on causes or cures, our experts advocate for practical improvements that enhance quality of life for autistic individuals and their families today.

Join us for this essential conversation that moves beyond headlines to explore what meaningful support really looks like for autistic individuals across their lifespan.

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What happens when society builds systems that leave people with disabilities isolated, unemployed, and without essential services? Nick Comstock has lived that reality—and he's speaking up about it.

Nick joins us to share his journey living with cytomegalovirus (CMV), a condition that's left him wheelchair-dependent with spasticity and dystonia. With remarkable candor and humor, he opens up about spending "a lot of time in my bedroom alone with a TV, phone and computer" after high school when services disappeared. This "services cliff" affects countless young adults with disabilities who suddenly lose their support systems and social connections.

Only 22% of people with disabilities were employed in 2023, despite this being the highest rate since data collection began in 2008. Nick himself has been declared "unemployable" by authorities in multiple counties solely because of his disability. Yet he's defied these limitations by creating "Nick Speaks," a successful podcast dedicated to disability issues that's approaching 30 episodes.

Transportation emerges as a critical barrier throughout our conversation. As Nick explains, needing to schedule rides 30 days in advance versus 30 minutes makes spontaneous outings, job opportunities, and dating nearly impossible. He challenges listeners to reconsider how we structure inclusion, noting that special programs sometimes unintentionally create bubbles rather than bridges.

Nick leaves us with a powerful message for organizations and employers: people with disabilities "love passionately" and "want to work harder and contribute to their community." His story reminds us that beyond policies and programs are human beings seeking the same connections and purpose we all desire.

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A magical night under twinkling lights, a dance floor filled with laughter, and the joy of feeling fully included—these are the experiences every high schooler deserves. Yet for many students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, traditional proms can feel overwhelming or unwelcoming.

Meet Greg Shetter, the visionary Behavioral Health Specialist behind Boundless Nights Prom, an extraordinary celebration designed specifically for students with autism and other developmental challenges. "This is the opportunity for students to have a singular event of their high school career that is not only inclusive but designed specifically for them," he explains with infectious enthusiasm. Across 16 Montgomery County high schools, approximately 70 students will finally experience a night where they're not just accommodated—they're centered.

Behind this magical evening stands the Mark Andrew Kreushe Memorial Fund, whose generous grant makes the entire event possible. Suzie Kreushe shares how her foundation emerged from unimaginable loss—the death of her four-year-old son Mark in a boating accident. Rather than surrendering to grief, her family chose to "leave a MARK on children's lives" through grants supporting diverse youth programs. "Everyone deserves to be happy," Suzie affirms. "I don't care what you're going through, we can make someone's life better."

The masquerade-themed prom will transform a gym into a night of wonder, complete with corsages, photo booths, refreshments, and even crowns for each attendee. Beyond creating memories, the event showcases Boundless's expanding programs for teenagers, including socialization skills groups, parent support training, and peer friendship development.

Join us in celebrating this remarkable initiative where every student gets their perfect prom moment. Want to support future inclusive events like this? Contact Greg Shetter at gshetter@iamboundless.org or visit MarkKreushe.com to learn how you can help create more spaces where all young people feel truly included, valued, and celebrated.

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We learn from our Boundless Nurse Practitioner, Carla O'Neal, and friends from the City of Dublin Recreation Center (Mollie Steiner, Recreation Administrator and Meaghan Campbell, Adaptive Recreation Coordinator), how to set realistic health goals this year that set us all up for success. Little changes made consistently throughout the year can add up to huge health improvements! Also hear about some awesome adaptive recreation programs available in Central Ohio like adaptive yoga, adaptive swim lessons, adaptive water dance and adaptive land dance classes. 

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Explore the importance and benefits of having a support system of good friends. Boundless proudly hosts Girls Night Out (GNO) programs for teenage girls that provide opportunities for authentic connection in a safe environment. A mix of neurotypical and neurodiverse girls gather to visit restaurants, cafes, Aveda spa treatments and more while strengthening their social circles. Join host Scott Light, Kelli James, Boundless peer and transitions supervisor, Brianne Kemp, a teenager in the GNO program, and Nicole Derifield-West, dream advisor at Aveda to hear the impact GNO is having to help alleviate depression and increase self-confidence while having tons of fun. 

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As the holiday season approaches, we often hear "it's the most wonderful time of the year", but for some, the added stressors or loss of a loved one make it an extremely difficult time. Join Nathanael Bloss, Licensed Professional Counselor and Mental Health Program Coordinator at Boundless and Darcel Theiss, volunteer GriefShare leader, with our host, Scott Light, and get practical tips on how to make it through the holidays when you are hurting. You are not alone! There are many places and resources where you can get help if you need it.   

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Where can you find a dental clinic that understands the unique needs of an individual who has intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD) or behavior health challenges? The Boundless Health dental clinic is prepared to provide patients (and their families) with dental treatments tailored to them in a sensory-friendly environment where they will be given the time needed to feel comfortable. Listen as Shannon Whetsel-Horn shares how the amazing dental care her daughter has received has positively impacted their family. Dr. Ashiyan Rahman, dentist and dental director, and Dominique Horton, dental assistant, both share why they like working with Boundless patients. Boundless is accepting new dental patients so if you are looking for a dental home, please go to iamboundless.org to learn more.  

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This is a special episode that was recorded in front of a live audience at Land Grant Brewing as a part of the Columbus Foundation's Big Table events. Celebrity Emcee Alissa Henry, ABC6/FOX 28, guides panelists through hot topics that ensure adults with disabilities have the right to choose if they date, drink alcohol and where they work. Panelists include Angela Bellin (Boundless program leader for Economic Connections), Ana Santos (Boundless residential manager), Julius Ghee (Boundless Direct Support Professional for 20 years), Jen Adkins and Kassandra Trunk (adults served by Boundless). Our staff and individuals share what makes them feel included and respected and also what not to say. 

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Discover the path to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) recovery! In this episode, join our host, Scott Light, as we sit down with Morgan Maffett, a licensed social worker at Boundless, and Maggie Kinkopf, who shares her powerful lived experience with PTSD. Dive into the transformative power of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy as our guests discuss its effectiveness and their journeys to healing. Prepare for insightful stories and a deeper understanding of the innovative approaches to helping people overcome trauma and improve their lives. 

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Learn about the power of advocacy! In this episode, we sit down with Anthony Kukura, Manager of Advocacy and Government Affairs at Boundless, Teresa Lampl, CEO of The Ohio Council of Behavioral Health and Family Services Providers, and Marci Straughter, a passionate self-advocate. With our host, Scott Light, we dive into how grassroot efforts and legislative actions are making a significant impact on communities, especially in the realms of mental health, disability services and public policy. Prepare for inspiring stories and a deeper understanding of the transformative impact of dedicated individuals working together for change.

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Step into the world of inclusive sports with us! In this episode, we sit down with Will Gibson, an extraordinary athlete and coach with Down syndrome, alongside Beth Gibson, the visionary executive director and founder of Buddy Up for Life and Tracie Reddy, the dedicated residential operations manager for Boundless and Buddy Ball volunteer. With our host, Scott Light, we dive into Will's sports journey, exploring its profound significance and the importance of community engagement. Prepare for heartwarming stories and insights into the power of community and a deeper understanding of the transformative impact of inclusive sports. 

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This year as you do your spring cleaning, why not declutter your mind as well. In this episode we have great tips for being more focused and less stressed. Join two professional counselors Dr. Jamie Jones, Boundless, and Danielle Smart, client navigator, Ohio NAMI, who share proven ways to achieve better mental health. They join our host Scott Light to discuss meditation, breathing exercises, journaling and just getting outside to improve your state of mind. What impact do green spaces and blue spaces have on our health? Studies show they are helpful in calming our minds. 

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For Developmental Disability Awareness Month Bob Evans Farms partnered with Boundless to help build confidence and connections through cooking recipes with Bob Evans Farms products. Hear how four women we serve through our adult day program Without Walls (WoW) joined four food scientists/chefs from Bob Evans Farms at our SmartHome to cook together. Guests Hope Johnson, supervisor of the WoW program at Boundless, and Cassandra Binkley, senior manager community engagement & philanthropy at Bob Evans Farms, discuss how well the interactions went. Everyone learned something new from each other. Learning life skills is a great way to gain more independence.  

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Dating is tough for many people in this day and age and can be even more difficult if you are an adult with disabilities. Our host, Scott Light, is joined by Julie, a mom of an adult son with autism who has experienced dating, and Ana Santos, residential manager at Boundless, who works with many adults who desire to be in romantic relationships. With shows like Love on the Spectrum this topic is being discussed more often. How can family members and guardians support their adults looking for love? What can parents do to set up safe guidelines while still being encouraging about dating? Listen in to get these valuable perspectives. 

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When asked, “Who was/is a mentor to you?” We can all probably think of one or more people who have made significant impacts on our lives. Mentors are vital in learning social skills, working through tough situations, and helping you find the right place in your community. Boundless staff members Kelli James and Kiara James join host, Scott Light, to share stories about how mentors have impacted them personally as well as the impressive progress they’ve witnessed in individuals who are receiving mentoring services at Boundless. After all, we are all stronger when we have supportive people in our lives.    

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Hear from two mothers who both lost a loved one during the holidays last year and what lessons they learned and are willing to share with others. Karen Cousins, program director, NAMI Franklin County and Dr. Jill Crane, psychology post-doctoral fellow, Boundless, join host Scott Light for some heartfelt suggestions on not caving to expectations and celebrating in a way that works for you. 

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We’ve heard many times before that you can’t care for others if you’re not caring for yourself, but it’s easy to overlook your needs and feel guilty for prioritizing yourself. We are facing a burnout epidemic and caregivers are being hit the hardest, but the good news is you’re not alone. People around the country are dealing with these same issues and have found solutions to help them balance themselves and their passion. Hear the stories of three different caretakers, the struggles they face, and what they do to give back to themselves on this episode of Well-Being. Join Jess Waizmann, Community ABA Administrator at Boundless, Lisa Comes, Service and Support Advisor at Ohio Association of County Boards and mother of a son with disabilities, and Julie Callahan, mother of an adult son who Boundless serves, to hear real life examples of self-care.

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We’ve reached that time of year where it seems everyday is filled with planning and prepping for upcoming holidays and family gatherings. This can be especially stressful for those with intellectual or developmental disabilities and their caretakers. What do you do if your loved one doesn’t want to wear a Halloween costume? Doesn't like anything prepared for Thanksgiving? Or your family gets frustrated that an individual only spent 20 minutes at family Christmas? We have answers and real-life examples for all that and more from our Boundless experts, Kristen Messer and Kelli James, and Janet, a parent of an adult with autism. Listen to this episode to ease some of your holiday stress. 

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We recognize the hard work that goes into being a Direct Support Professional (DSP). But it's a great career for those who have compassion and want to improve the lives of others. We just celebrated DSP Appreciation Week and Janet Griffiths nominated her daughter's DSP, Marquita, to be recognized for the 20 years she's helped Lori and their family. And Jayme Jurkovac joins host Scott Light to share some of the great benefits DSPs get if they choose to work at Boundless and we are hiring. 

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We discuss stigmas and misconceptions around adults with disabilities and why we must respect their life choices. Listen in as Ana Santos, residential manager at Boundless, and Jen Adkins, a 48-year-old woman who is a self-advocate and her own guardian, discuss the challenges they face while out in the community ordering alcoholic beverages. Beth Boswell, community engagement & partnerships coordinator at Rhinegeist, shares why they wanted to join forces with Boundless for their Beer for Humans campaign to help educate others that adults with disabilities can enjoy adult beverages and drink responsibly. 

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Listen to learn how authors with autism are writing books who have autistic characters as they share their own voices.  How have libraries changed to become more inclusive to those with disabilities? They are no longer just quiet places. Kristen Messer, autism clinic director at Boundless, and Kris Hickey, youth services manager at the Whetstone branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library, join host Scott Light to discuss neurodivergent characters and authors. You will want to add these books to your reading list.

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Let's be honest, that momentous road trip where everyone sang songs, counted license plates from multiple states, and no one asked, 'Are we there yet' -- was still stressful.  Factor in a child or adult with intellectual and developmental disabilities and that stress can be amplified. On this episode, you'll hear from two travel experts, who are also advocates for travel inclusivity. Ohio and every other state need more accessible restrooms with adult changing tables. Kim Boulter from the Ohio Changing Spaces campaign shares how they are helping make that happen and where you can find an interactive map.  Plus, Boundless Community Integration Specialist, Hope Johnson, provides her best food, beverage and mental health tips for loading up the car and heading out. She has learned lots of lessons taking adults with disabilities out in the community for years!    

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Dr. John Ackerman, Nationwide Children's Clinical Manager for the Center for Suicide Prevention and Research joins Dr. Jamie Jones, Clinical Supervisor at Boundless Health, for a broad and frank discussion on mental health and suicide prevention, with special attention paid to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.  Both John and Jamie discuss effective ways to have tough conversations on these subjects with people you love.  Host, Scott Light, also asks them about the state of mental health in America: what concerns them?  And what gives them hope?   

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This episode follows Timothy Blackwell through his journey as an artist with autism. He has been drawing since he could hold a pencil. Next year his creations will be displayed in a solo art show! Learn how he recently became a paid freelance artist. Boundless has provided Tim with counseling, peer mentoring, community outings, and now MAX coaching services. A call for local artists helped him reconnect with The Awesome Company and earn income by selling his designs. Join Tim and his mom, Rebecca, Angela Bellin (MAX coaching specialist at Boundless) Kelli James (peer and transitions supervisor at Boundless) and Jacquie Mahan (CEO of The Awesome Company) and be encouraged by the power of connections and partnerships. Learn how more people can get involved in assisting adults with autism find self-reliance and economic inclusion. 

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Focusing on your fitness doesn't mean you have to do something you don't like. Learn how having choices can increase your desire to get moving. Join Peggy Mills, owner of Valemee Fitness, Amy Finkle, behavior analyst at Boundless, and Ryan Burnett, assistive technology manager, to hear how individuals with disabilities are working out all around town and at Boundless. They join our host, Scott Light, to discuss why it's important to give yourself grace in your exercise journey. We also share how BoundaryCare has partnered with Boundless to use technology to monitor health and enhance quality of life. 

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Let's be honest, we're hearty folks here in Ohio as our winter months bring loads of cold weather, gray skies, and frozen water of several iterations. All of which send the sun back into the shadows. Yes, we're used to it, but it doesn't mean we're not truly affected by it. Those factors and more lead to seasonal affective disorder and it's real.  It's not just the 'winter blues'.  SAD has symptoms and even direct correlations to major depressive disorder. Join Julie Battaglia, clinical lead supervisor at Boundless and Rejeana Haynes, chief clinical officer at St. Vincent Family Services to learn what awareness, exercise, self-care, medication, counseling and other changes in lifestyle could do to help you or someone you know with SAD.     

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Learn how our Parent Directed Program (PDP) lifts the weight off parents’ shoulders. Join Amanda Ryther, PDP parent, as she shares how she learned to best support her daughter Maddie and find time for herself again. Matthew Chapman, PDP administrative team member at Boundless, joins host Scott Light and explains how this unique program allows parents to get paid for caring for their loved one or hire people they choose to care for them while Boundless handles all the administrative tasks behind the scenes. 

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Finding the right Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) technologies improve overall health, build confidence, and help with verbal language. When can you get a language and device consultation? What is the process of pairing the right device with an individual? Join Brad Whitmoyer as he uses his eye tracker technology and a mouse/clicker activated by his knee to share his experiences both personally and professionally. It's pretty amazing!  Along with Brad, you'll hear from Jennifer Monahan, senior AAC consultant from PRC-Saltillo who talks about technology today and what we may see in the technology of tomorrow.  Also, Abby Harris, a speech language pathologist from Boundless shares the profound impact she's seen these devices have on individuals and their families. 

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With the holidays on the horizon, it is officially the season of giving and philanthropy. How do businesses build partnerships with organizations? What is “trust philanthropy”? And how does it benefit nonprofits? Join us to hear how Central Ohio businesses are helping the community. Erin Shannon, corporate relations manager of White Castle, and Christina Brown, regional director of community philanthropy and engagement at Huntington Bank, join our host Scott Light to share how they are putting their passions into practice helping others.

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Did you know that being grateful can change your brain chemistry? What is a gratitude jar? Join us to learn practical things that you can do to embrace gratitude, improve your attitude, and enhance your life. Tammy Battle, state nursing director at Boundless, and Rachelle Martin, executive director of NAMI Franklin County, join our host Scott Light to share tips on being thankful this holiday season and all year long.

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Organizations across Central Ohio are creating more and more successful, sensory-friendly events and providing a wide array of recreation activities tailored to the individual. Learn how rewarding these experiences are, not only for attendees but also for performers, staff, and entire organizations. Heather Garner (executive director of the New Albany Symphony), Rae Nutter (recreation therapist with the City of Columbus Parks and Recreation), and Kristen Messer (clinic director of ELM at Boundless) join host, Scott Light, to explore the growing need to offer more of these valuable programs.

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Offering people more choices has changed how we serve individuals and given them more opportunities to smile. Boundless staff members Susie Burke, director of quality assurance, and Todd Mitchell, operations manager, join host, Scott Light to share their decades of experience. They discuss the honor of families trusting them with their loved ones, getting through tough days with calmness and kindness, and the power of natural supports.

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Is there such a thing as a runner's high? Why does a gym buddy make or break a fitness goal? What can't doctors learn from a textbook? All this and more as we discuss how Ohio State medical students, the YMCA of Central Ohio, and Boundless came together to design a fitness program specifically for people with I/DD. This week's guests include Ka Ren Steele (Boundless), Dr. Mark Troyer (The Ohio State University College of Medicine), and Janet Torres (Eldon and Elsie Ward YMCA).

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Today we are exploring OhioRISE—a major new behavioral health program for children with mental, emotional, and substance abuse needs. Listen in to hear how it's impacting families. Our guests include Lisa Clark (Boundless state director of care coordination and management), Shannon Hunter (family engagement director at Aetna), Marisa Weisel (deputy director of strategic initiatives, Ohio Medicaid), and Shirley Grey-Nine (OhioRISE parent). 

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Back to school means new people, new lessons, and new spaghetti feelings. Whether you are a parent, teacher, or student, what steps can you take to make the new school year a great one? On this week's episode, we're talking to Boundless parent Shandale Fletcher, her seven-year-old son Obi, and Kristen Messer, ELM clinical director, to learn how you can help your loved one overcome anxiety and nervousness to thrive. 

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Why does the I/DD community struggle with access to dental care and what are some of the challenges facing the next generation of dentists? All of this and more as Dr. Stephen Beetstra, program director for Ohio State's Nisonger Center for Dental Services and Boundless Health's interim dental director, sits down with Scott Light. 

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What do COSI, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and The Ohio State Fair have in common? They're all committed to offering sensory-friendly experiences. On this episode, Samantha Banks (Boundless), Becky Nellis (Columbus Zoo & Aquarium), Katherine Davis (COSI), and Alicia Shoults (Ohio Expo Center and State Fair), join Scott Light to discuss how Central Ohio's most popular attractions are taking steps to create an inclusive and sensory-friendly environment for all of their guests. 

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On this episode of the podcast, Boundless moms Patti Cain and Sue Hall join Boundless lead speech and language pathologist Tessa Subler and host Scott Light to discuss how speech therapy builds bridges, why you shouldn't be afraid of a diagnosis, and why it's just as important for parents to find their voices. 

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On this episode, we're diving into Boundless Health. Our guests, Dr. Cindy Ripsin, Boundless Health medical director, and Mac and Jessica Smith, a Boundless Health family, join host Scott Light to talk about the importance of person-centeredness, why consistency is the key, and how fifteen minutes can make a world of difference for patients with special needs.

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Father's Day is almost here, and we're celebrating by talking to Dallas Fletcher, father of two Boundless students, and Matt Lofy and Shaun Ditty of the Dadass Podcast. Join Dallas, Matt, and Shaun, along with host Scott Light as they discuss what it means to be a dad in 2022, how to be vulnerable, why presence beats presents, and discover just how many dads it takes to screw in a lightbulb. 

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For people and families with special needs, the transition to adulthood can be especially challenging. Thankfully there are resources available to help people with autism and behavioral health challenges successfully make the leap. Angela Bellin, Max program coaching specialist,  and Nathan Edwards, Boundless IT specialist and Max program graduate, join Scott Light to discuss the benefits of interpersonal coaching, how to be a cheerleader for yourself and others, and why its' important to keep setting the bar higher and higher. 

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Camps are as synonymous with summer as fireworks and BBQs, but for people with I/DD or behavioral health challenges finding the right one isn't always a day at the beach. On today's episode, Kelli James (Boundless Jumpstart program leader), Dr. Emily Newton (clinical psychologist at Nationwide Children's Hospital's Center of Autism Spectrum Disorders), and Melissa Lawrence (program and clinical supervisor at Nationwide Children's Hospital's Center of Autism Spectrum Disorders) join host Scott Light to discuss how to find the summer program that's the perfect fit for your loved one. 

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This week on Well-Being, we're feeling the burn and talking all things swim, gym, and play! Peggy Mills (Valemee Fitness), Jennifer Welday (Volunteer with City of Reynoldsburg, Superhero Adaptive Sports), and Lisa Armitage (Goldfish Swim School) join Scott Light to discuss fun, fitness, and adaptive sports opportunities for members of the I/DD and autism communities. So listen in to find out how you or a loved one can work up a sweat this spring and summer.

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