Quillo Pod

In this week's episode, John and Cynthia chat with Kathy Hardy about discovering hidden superpowers in individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and shifting from deficit-based thinking to strength-based perspectives. Kathy shares her personal journey as a mother of a son on the autism spectrum and her work helping overlooked talent find meaningful career opportunities thr...

In this week's episode, John and Cynthia discuss the power of words and their impact on the disability community, exploring how language can both harm and heal.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

• To learn...

In this week’s episode, John and Cynthia reflect on the tradition of capturing portraits at the Self-Advocates of Indiana picnic and the powerful impact these photos have in celebrating smiles, memories, and joy within the IDD community. They share stories of how a simple photograph can open doors to connection, highlight individual gifts, and create lasting keepsakes that honor each person’s life.

Resources mentioned in the episod...

In this week's episode, John and Cynthia discuss creative ways to show DSP appreciation year-round, exploring the five languages of appreciation and offering budget-friendly ideas such as custom playlists, personalized video messages, and meaningful conversations about talents and interests.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

In this week's episode, John and Cynthia explore the power of taking just five minutes a day to reset, recharge, and invest in your own well-being. They discuss simple practices—like breathwork, journaling, stretching, or stepping outside—that can lower stress, build healthy habits, and create more space for patience and presence in everyday life.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

• Doctor Rangan Chatterjee’s podcast episode ...

In this episode of Quillo Pod, hosts Cynthia Morraz and John Dickerson explore the importance of listening deeply and seeing people beyond their labels or diagnoses. They discuss the practice of sharing “birth stories” as a powerful way to understand identity, build connection, and uncover common ground. Through personal reflections and real-life examples, the conversation highlights how asking meaningful questions—and truly listen...

In this week's episode, John sits down with Neal, a successful business leader as well as a parent of a son with autism who is a non-speaker.  Neil shares how his approach to being positive in building business relationships translated to success for his son in school and now on his journey into adulthood.  His lessons translate so well. 

Check out his book - Bar Tips: Everything I Needed to Know in Sales I Learned Behind the Bar 

...

In this week’s episode, John and Cynthia reflect on the life and legacy of John O’Brien — a beloved leader, visionary, and gentle giant in the disability community. They share personal stories and powerful lessons from his decades of work in inclusion, person-centered planning, and community building. John O’Brien inspired generations to listen deeply and lead with heart.

Resources mentioned in the episode: To learn more about Joh...

In this episode of Quillo Pod, hosts Cynthia Morraz and John Dickerson explore whether joy has a price tag, particularly for individuals in the IDD. They discuss how budgets should serve as pathways to joy rather than constraints, sharing examples of finding happiness through community connections and natural supports. The conversation highlights how meaningful activities don't always require significant funding, emphasizing the im...

In this week's episode, Cynthia and John talk about the question we've all been asked - "What do you want to be when you grow up?" and why it's okay not to have a clear answer.

The conversation explores the importance of discovering your interests, staying open to change, and having real conversations that lead to new opportunities. From personal stor...

In this week's episode, John and Cynthia explore the incredible insights and untapped potential of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs).

Our conversation will cover:

• Why DSPs often feel unheard within their...

Next week is DSP Recognition Week (September 8-14, 2024). In this REPLAY episode from 2023, John and Cynthia sit down with John Raffaele, the Director of Educational Services at NADSP. We discuss DSPs (Direct Support Professionals), who they are, and their impact on the IDD community. 

Resources mentioned in the episode:

NADSP

Want to share stories with us? Email us at Quillopod@myquillo.com

To learn more about Quillo Connect visit...

In this episode of Quillo Pod, Cynthia Morraz and John Dickerson shed light on the often-overlooked intersection of mental health and the IDD community during Mental Health Awareness Month. They discuss the persistent stigma surrounding mental health challenges, share personal stories that illustrate the importance of being an ally, and offer practical guidance on supporting those experiencing difficult...

In this week's episode, John and Cynthia dive into an honest conversation about autism—what we’ve learned, and the critical need to amplify voices from the autism community. From diagnosis stories to advocacy and inclusion, they explore how language, assumptions, and outdated systems can impact individuals and families—and what it looks like to move forward with respect.

Have a story to share; Share with CARE 

Episode Transcript

Wa...

In this week's episode, John and Cynthia discuss the power of community connections in both digital and physical spaces. They explore how people crave togetherness, from the resurgence of bookstores to building community on Quillo Connect.

Learn more about Quillo Connect

Eric Carter 10 Steps of Belonging

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Episode Transcript

Want to share stories with us? Email us at Quillopod@myquillo.com

To learn more about Quillo Connect v...