The Expanding Worlds Podcast

In this episode, host Debra Caldow speaks to some of the young people and the families who are part of the JubyLee Bakes Project. From what they enjoy most about baking to the impact it has on their lives, the young people themselves reinforce the importance of projects like JubyLee for not only changing individual lives but also altering societal perceptions. https://www.jubyleebakes.org.uk/ If you would like to support this podcast then visit buymeacoffee.com/expandingworlds

In this episode, Debra Caldow talks to Ellen Tomlinson from JubyLee Bakes. Ellen explains how she joined together with other families to create JubyLee Bakes. Their goal was to provide meaningful work for her son and other young adults with additional needs. She discusses why they chose baking and how they financed the startup. Ellen also talks honestly about the challenges they faced along the way. She shares the support they found that helped them build and run the organization. JubyLee Bakes now helps many young people develop real work skills. And in doing so, it boosts their confidence and sense of self-worth. https://www.jubyleebakes.org.uk/ If you would like to support this podcast then visit buymeacoffee.com/expandingworlds

In this episode, host Debra Caldow discusses why planning is such an essential part of how we support our children. She addresses why planning is often delayed because of overwhelm. But starting small, moving slowly, and doing something every day is a good way to get started. She talks about why using a planning "route map" across four areas—daily living, purpose, relationships, and finance —can also help identify the best areas to work on at specific times. Debra shares her personal experiences around this while acknowledging the challenges she faced around stepping back. If you would like to support this podcast then visit buymeacoffee.com/expandingworlds

In this episode, host Debra Caldow explains why hiring people with additional needs is not only a socially responsible choice but also a smart business decision. She discusses how inclusive hiring provides companies access to talented employees but can also boost employee morale and enhance customer loyalty. Debra also talks about why the focus should be on removing barriers rather than reducing expectations, ensuring that all employees can contribute meaningfully.

In this episode, Debra Caldow talks to Dave Friedman from AutonomyWorks. He shares the inspiration and journey behind AutonomyWorks, a company that provides meaningful employment opportunities for adults with autism. Drawing from personal experience Dave explains the challenges faced by individuals with autism in securing employment, particularly due to structural job design and traditional hiring processes. Dave explains how AutonomyWorks addresses these challenges by matching the specialized skills of individuals with autism to roles that align with their strengths. https://www.autonomy.works/

In this episode, Debra Caldow talks to Claire Wannell from Springboard about teaching essential daily live skills, such as cooking and personal hygiene. She discusses the methods that can be used to make learning these skills accessible and enjoyable. Claire also talks about the importance of empowering young people to become independent and provides practical tips for families on how to involve young people in daily home activities. https://www.springboardsupport.org/

In this episode, host Debra Caldow talks about the importance of dynamic planning in areas like education, work, housing, and finances. She explains that while planning is important, it needs to change as life changes and sticking too strictly to one plan can hold people back. She discusses why dynamic planning helps people adjust when needed, giving clear direction while still leaving room for growth, change, and unexpected opportunities. Check out our Independent Cooking Made Easy Course https://bit.ly/independentcooking

In this episode, Debra Caldow's guest is Ben Simmonds, who shares his experiences from being diagnosed with autism, being nonverbal until the age of five, moving through school and university, and then to employment. He discusses how autism impacts his life in multifaceted ways. Ben also touches on the medical and social models of disability and the importance of recognizing both the challenges and abilities associated with neurodiversity. Check out our Independent Cooking Made Easy Course https://bit.ly/independentcooking

In this episode, Debra Caldow continues her conversation with Tom Roberts from the Brighton and Hove Care Co-operative discussing some of the reasons why the cooperative approach isn't as popular as it should be. He also talks about the benefits of cooperative care including greater job satisfaction and a more engaged, person-centered approach. Tom also discusses the issues around having a diverse membership and balancing viability as an organization with maintaining the cooperative ethos. https://bhcarecoop.co.uk/ Check out our Independent Cooking Made Easy Course https://bit.ly/independentcooking