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For a family raising a child with special needs, life can be difficult. There are many storms to weather and struggles to address, and we often feel isolated and alone due to the nature of our circumstances. Families have a need to connect and find resources, a need to be encouraged, and a need for hope as we walk down what can be a very hard road at times. Hope on the Hard Road Special Needs Podcast was created for this purpose. Our vision is to grow a thriving community, where families with children of all ages with special needs can feel connected, be encouraged, and find hope for the road ahead.
For a family raising a child with special needs, life can be difficult. There are many storms to weather and struggles to address, and we often feel isolated and alone due to the nature of our circumstances. Families have a need to connect and find resources, a need to be encouraged, and a need for hope as we walk down what can be a very hard road at times. Hope on the Hard Road Special Needs Podcast was created for this purpose. Our vision is to grow a thriving community, where families with children of all ages with special needs can feel connected, be encouraged, and find hope for the road ahead.
Episodes

Monday Dec 15, 2025
"Season Highlights & Happy Holidays" with Eric and Christen
Monday Dec 15, 2025
Monday Dec 15, 2025
"Season Highlights & Happy Holidays" with Eric and Christen

Hey everybody Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
This season has had so many incredible episodes and there are so many more to come in the New Year!
Lets take a moment and listen in to some of the highlights. And don’t forget you can always get caught up on the episodes you’ve missed over the holidays. Find us where ever you listen to your podcasts or watch us on our YouTube Channel at Hope on the Hard Road
See you back here in the New Year!
Amanda Owen
www.piecesofme.org
www.puzzle-pieces.org
@piecesofmebyamanda
Joel & Debbie Pearlman
www.daniplan.com
https://www.facebook.com/MyDaniPlan/
https://www.instagram.com/mydaniplan/
Heather Avis
@heatheravis
@theluckyfewofficial
heatheravis.com
Kelly and Pamela Schlenz
www.idyllwildpines.org
autisticallyinclined.com
@adventureswithnaiyagrace
@Idyllwildpines
J Brad and Paulette Britton
@RealWordsWithSam
www.realwordswithsam.com
[email protected]
Dawnmarie Gaivin
www.spellers.com
www.spellersfreedomfoundation.org.
[email protected]
www.underestimated.tv
@spellers_freedomfoundation
@spellers__
https://www.facebook.com/groups/spellerscommunity
https://www.facebook.com/spellersfreedomfoundation https://www.facebook.com/spellersrev
For a family raising a child with special needs, life can be difficult. There are many storms to weather and struggles to address, and we often feel isolated and alone due to the nature of our circumstances. Families have a need to connect and find resources, a need to be encouraged, and a need for hope as we walk down what can be a very hard road at times. Hope on the Hard Road Special Needs Podcast was created for this purpose. Our vision is to grow a thriving community, where families with children of all ages with special needs can feel connected, be encouraged, and find hope for the road ahead.
Connect with Us:
If you enjoy this podcast please share us with others and be sure to follow us so won’t miss an episode. We’d love to hear from you so please leave us a comment or rating and connect with us on social media or on our website.
Email us: [email protected]
Website: https://hopeonthehardroad.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeonthehardroad/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeonthehardroad/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2621447987943459
Free Youtube Resource Library: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsSAfvTkSy87X-fEqtVR2qvo7w9UQBuxz
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Hope on the Hard Road, Inc. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, medical, or legal advice.

Monday Dec 01, 2025
“The Spellers Method” with Dawnmarie Gaivin
Monday Dec 01, 2025
Monday Dec 01, 2025
Spellers Series:
“The Spellers Method” with Dawnmarie Gaivin

Dawnmarie Gaivin, is the cofounder of Spellers MethodTM and the Executive Director of Spellers Freedom Foundation. A former trauma and transplant nurse who spent more than a decade working in prestigious teaching hospitals in Boston and San Francisco, when she became a mother in 2003, her life took an unexpected turn. By 2006, both of her children had been diagnosed with nonspeaking autism.
Driven by an unwavering commitment to help her boys find their voices, Dawnmarie transformed her career. She became an assistive technology specialist and a DIR/Floortime® provider, ultimately founding Spellers Center - San Diego in 2017 and co-founding the revolutionary Spellers Method.
Featured in the SPELLERS documentary, her impact has rippled far beyond her own family. Let’s listen in as Dawnmarie shares her story.
Bio:
Dawnmarie Gaivin, RN, AT-ACP, is a former trauma and transplant nurse who spent more than a decade working in prestigious teaching hospitals in Boston and San Francisco. When she became a mother in 2003, her life took an unexpected turn - by 2006, both of her children had been diagnosed with nonspeaking autism. Driven by an unwavering commitment to help her boys find their voices, Dawnmarie transformed her career. She became an assistive technology specialist and a DIR/Floortime® provider, ultimately founding Spellers Center - San Diego in 2017 and co-founding the revolutionary Spellers MethodTM. Her impact rippled far beyond her own family. In March 2021, speller Jamison Handley and his father JB chronicled their transformative journey with Dawnmarie in their book Underestimated, revealing how spelling opened entirely new pathways to communication. The movement continued to gain momentum. In 2023, the documentary SPELLERS was released, powerfully demonstrating how spelling and typing as AAC methodologies have liberated countless nonspeakers from lives of silence. This was followed in 2024 by Underestimated.tv, which illuminated more profound journeys of nonspeakers after they gained access to open communication. Today, as Executive Director of Spellers Freedom Foundation - a 501(c)(3) public charity - Dawnmarie has expanded her reach far beyond San Diego. The foundation empowers every speller to flourish through access to communication, community-building, and scholarships. She remains equally passionate about ensuring students with alternative communication needs receive age-appropriate curriculum throughout their lifespans, a commitment that has inspired her to pursue a master's degree in educational leadership. What drives her is a life mission that’s as clear as it is urgent: to dismantle the long-rooted paradigms that prevent nonspeakers from living their fullest, most inclusive lives possible - not just in one community, but everywhere. You can learn more about her work at www.spellers.com and www.spellersfreedomfoundation.org.
www.spellersfreedomfoundation.org
https://www.spellersfreedomfoundation.org/how-to-help www.spellers.com www.underestimated.tv
Instagram: @spellers_freedomfoundation @spellers__
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spellerscommunity/
https://www.facebook.com/spellersfreedomfoundation https://www.facebook.com/spellersrev
The Spellers Guidebook on Amazon: https://a.co/d/2m3pcXf Underestimated on Amazon: https://a.co/d/iWOZQZg
Spellers the Movie: https://www.spellersfreedomfoundation.org/spellers-the-movie
For a family raising a child with special needs, life can be difficult. There are many storms to weather and struggles to address, and we often feel isolated and alone due to the nature of our circumstances. Families have a need to connect and find resources, a need to be encouraged, and a need for hope as we walk down what can be a very hard road at times. Hope on the Hard Road Special Needs Podcast was created for this purpose. Our vision is to grow a thriving community, where families with children of all ages with special needs can feel connected, be encouraged, and find hope for the road ahead.
Connect with Us:
If you enjoy this podcast please share us with others and be sure to follow us so won’t miss an episode. We’d love to hear from you so please leave us a comment or rating and connect with us on social media or on our website.
Email us: [email protected]
Website: https://hopeonthehardroad.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeonthehardroad/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeonthehardroad/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2621447987943459
Free Youtube Resource Library: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsSAfvTkSy87X-fEqtVR2qvo7w9UQBuxz
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Hope on the Hard Road, Inc. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, medical, or legal advice.

Monday Nov 17, 2025
Monday Nov 17, 2025
Spellers Series:
“Finding Their Voice: A Family’s Journey with Spelling” with J Brad and Paulette Britton

Today we continue our Spellers Series and are joined by Paulette and J Brad Britton. Paulette and J Brad have a 24-year-old autistic son with apraxia, named Sam. For years, his intelligence and humor were missed. That changed when he began using spelled communication to share his thoughts.
Paulette has spent years connecting cutting-edge autism research with the families who need it. J Brad, a leadership mentor and business executive, brings a father’s honest reflection to the conversation. He talks openly about what it means to lead, learn, and show up when your child’s needs don’t follow the rulebook.
Together, Paulette and J Brad have become thoughtful voices on “presuming competence”, advocating with compassion, and holding on to hope on the hard road.
Their story is featured in the upcoming book Real Words with Sam, which includes Sam’s own writing—his ideas, his humor, his voice. Let’s Listen in as we hear Paulette and J Brad’s Story
Bio:
Paulette and J Brad Britton are the parents of Sam, a 24-year-old autistic man with apraxia. For years, his intelligence and humor were missed. That changed when he began using spelled communication to share his thoughts.
Paulette has spent years connecting cutting-edge autism research with the families who need it. J Brad, a leadership mentor and business executive, brings a father’s honest reflection to the conversation. He talks openly about what it means to lead, learn, and show up when your child’s needs don’t follow the rulebook.
Together, Paulette and J Brad have become thoughtful voices on presuming competence, advocating with compassion, and holding on to hope on the hard road.
Their story is featured in the upcoming book Real Words with Sam, which includes Sam’s own writing—his ideas, his humor, his voice. The book invites readers to see through a different lens and reconsider communication, connection, and belief.
Insta and Facebook: RealWordsWithSam
www.realwordswithsam.com
jbradbritt[email protected]
For a family raising a child with special needs, life can be difficult. There are many storms to weather and struggles to address, and we often feel isolated and alone due to the nature of our circumstances. Families have a need to connect and find resources, a need to be encouraged, and a need for hope as we walk down what can be a very hard road at times. Hope on the Hard Road Special Needs Podcast was created for this purpose. Our vision is to grow a thriving community, where families with children of all ages with special needs can feel connected, be encouraged, and find hope for the road ahead.
Connect with Us:
If you enjoy this podcast please share us with others and be sure to follow us so won’t miss an episode. We’d love to hear from you so please leave us a comment or rating and connect with us on social media or on our website.
Email us: [email protected]
Website: https://hopeonthehardroad.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeonthehardroad/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeonthehardroad/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2621447987943459
Free Youtube Resource Library: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsSAfvTkSy87X-fEqtVR2qvo7w9UQBuxz
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Hope on the Hard Road, Inc. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, medical, or legal advice.

Monday Nov 03, 2025
“Spelling Adventures and Advocacy” with Kelly and Pamela Schlenz
Monday Nov 03, 2025
Monday Nov 03, 2025
Spellers Series:
“Spelling Adventures and Advocacy” with Kelly and Pamela Schlenz

Hey guys, we’re excited you’re joining us for this episode! Today we begin our Spellers Series, highlighting this incredible form of communication. You won’t want to miss this informative and heartwarming series this month!
Kelly Schlenz is the Executive Director of Idyllwild Pines, a retreat and camp center nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains of Southern California. Along with his wife, Pamela, Kelly has dedicated his life to creating spaces where individuals and families can connect, grow, and find hope.
Inspired by their daughter, Naiya, who communicates through spelling, the Schlenz family has become passionate advocates for the spelling community. At Idyllwild Pines, Kelly and Pamela host specialized camps for spellers and their families, offering opportunities for connection, inclusion, and empowerment in a beautiful, supportive environment. Their leadership reflects their deep faith, family values, and commitment to building a world where every voice can be heard and celebrated.
Bio:
Kelly serves as the Executive Director at Idyllwild Pines Camp and Conference Center, where he brings leadership, vision, and a heart for community. He sees camp ministry as a powerful way to share the hope of Christ, build meaningful relationships, and create space for spiritual growth in the lives of others. Pamela is a devoted homeschool mom of three, passionate about nurturing both faith and education at home. Inspired by their own journey with their 15-year-old minimally speaking daughter, Kelly and Pamela partnered with Autistically Inclined to create Spellers Family Camps—transformative retreats designed to support and empower families of nonspeaking, minimally speaking, and unreliably speaking individuals by providing connection, community, and practical support with multimodal communication. Their mission is rooted in faith, compassion, inclusion and lived experience. When they're not hosting camps or homeschooling, you can find them enjoying mountain life with their three kids, two dogs and tending to their flock of 17 chickens.
autisticallyinclined.com
Instagram:
@adventureswithnaiyagrace
@Idyllwildpines
For a family raising a child with special needs, life can be difficult. There are many storms to weather and struggles to address, and we often feel isolated and alone due to the nature of our circumstances. Families have a need to connect and find resources, a need to be encouraged, and a need for hope as we walk down what can be a very hard road at times. Hope on the Hard Road Special Needs Podcast was created for this purpose. Our vision is to grow a thriving community, where families with children of all ages with special needs can feel connected, be encouraged, and find hope for the road ahead.
Connect with Us:
If you enjoy this podcast please share us with others and be sure to follow us so won’t miss an episode. We’d love to hear from you so please leave us a comment or rating and connect with us on social media or on our website.
Email us: [email protected]
Website: https://hopeonthehardroad.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeonthehardroad/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeonthehardroad/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2621447987943459
Free Youtube Resource Library: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsSAfvTkSy87X-fEqtVR2qvo7w9UQBuxz
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Hope on the Hard Road, Inc. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, medical, or legal advice.

Monday Oct 20, 2025
“Happiness is Down Syndrome” with Misty Snyder
Monday Oct 20, 2025
Monday Oct 20, 2025
Down Syndrome Awareness Month Series:
“Happiness is Down Syndrome” with Misty Snyder

Welcome back to the Down Syndrome Awareness Month Series! Today, we’re joined by a truly inspiring guest — Misty Coy Snyder. Misty is an actor, singer, writer, entrepreneur, and a powerful advocate for the Down syndrome community. After receiving a prenatal Down syndrome diagnosis for her second son, Misty created a global platform called Happiness is Down Syndrome, promoting inclusion, awareness, and the beauty of diversity.
She currently serves as the Creative Director for Global Outreach and Advancement at RODS Heroes, and in 2023, she launched her own podcast, Bold Voices, Soft Hearts, sharing moving stories of those who’ve found passion through pain.
Get ready for a heartfelt and hopeful conversation with Misty as we celebrate the voices that are changing the world — one story at a time.
Bio:
Misty Coy Snyder is an actor, singer, writer, entrepreneur, content creator and advocate for the Down syndrome community. She recently accepted the role of Creative Director for Global Outreach and Advancement for Down syndrome at RODS Heroes, which seeks to uncover the superpowers of individuals with Down syndrome. Upon receiving a prenatal Down syndrome diagnosis for her second son in 2020, she created a worldwide platform to promote inclusion and awareness called, Happiness is Down syndrome. She launched her own podcast in 2023 called, Bold Voices, Soft Hearts, which features stories of those who have discovered their passion through pain. She, along with her family hope to show the beauty of diversity on a global scale!
Contacts:
https://youtu.be/BYQuLinx_dA?si=9xW6pFLOQjtALp8g
https://www.instagram.com/happinessisdownsyndrome?igsh=YjJ2dnlxaGNtazFq&utm_source=qr
https://www.instagram.com/mistycoysnyder/profilecard/?igsh=NWg4OGJncDdkenoy
For a family raising a child with special needs, life can be difficult. There are many storms to weather and struggles to address, and we often feel isolated and alone due to the nature of our circumstances. Families have a need to connect and find resources, a need to be encouraged, and a need for hope as we walk down what can be a very hard road at times. Hope on the Hard Road Special Needs Podcast was created for this purpose. Our vision is to grow a thriving community, where families with children of all ages with special needs can feel connected, be encouraged, and find hope for the road ahead.
Connect with Us:
If you enjoy this podcast please share us with others and be sure to follow us so won’t miss an episode. We’d love to hear from you so please leave us a comment or rating and connect with us on social media or on our website.
Email us: [email protected]
Website: https://hopeonthehardroad.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeonthehardroad/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeonthehardroad/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2621447987943459
Free Youtube Resource Library: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsSAfvTkSy87X-fEqtVR2qvo7w9UQBuxz
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Hope on the Hard Road, Inc. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, medical, or legal advice.

Monday Oct 06, 2025
“The Lucky Few : Shifting Narratives” with Heather Avis
Monday Oct 06, 2025
Monday Oct 06, 2025
Down Syndrome Awareness Month Series:
“The Lucky Few : Shifting Narratives” with Heather Avis

October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and on today’s episode we are excited to welcome guest Heather Avis — New York Times best-selling author, podcaster, and founder of The Lucky Few.
For over a decade, Heather has been shifting the narrative around Down syndrome, using storytelling, advocacy, and activism to build a world where everyone belongs. Through her work, she invites us to embrace our differences and shout the worth of every person.
Get ready for an inspiring conversation about identity, belonging, and what it means to create a space where all are seen and valued.
Bio:
Heather is the founder of The Lucky Few, a New York Times best-selling author, podcaster and a Down syndrome advocate, working to create a more inclusive world where everyone belongs. For more than a decade, she has led this effort by shouting worth, shifting narratives and reimagining what it looks like when we embrace our differences. The Lucky Few is an invitation to build a kinder, more inclusive world. We accomplish this through a combination of advocacy and activism, narrative-shifting and storytelling. The Lucky Few believes in inspiring and challenging our audiences, calling them to listen, read, share, contribute and support as we work to create a world where differences are embraced and everyone belongs.
@heatheravis
@theluckyfewofficial
heatheravis.com
For a family raising a child with special needs, life can be difficult. There are many storms to weather and struggles to address, and we often feel isolated and alone due to the nature of our circumstances. Families have a need to connect and find resources, a need to be encouraged, and a need for hope as we walk down what can be a very hard road at times. Hope on the Hard Road Special Needs Podcast was created for this purpose. Our vision is to grow a thriving community, where families with children of all ages with special needs can feel connected, be encouraged, and find hope for the road ahead.
Connect with Us:
If you enjoy this podcast please share us with others and be sure to follow us so won’t miss an episode. We’d love to hear from you so please leave us a comment or rating and connect with us on social media or on our website.
Email us: [email protected]
Website: https://hopeonthehardroad.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeonthehardroad/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeonthehardroad/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2621447987943459
Free Youtube Resource Library: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsSAfvTkSy87X-fEqtVR2qvo7w9UQBuxz
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Hope on the Hard Road, Inc. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, medical, or legal advice.

Monday Sep 22, 2025
"The Dani Plan" with Joel & Debbie Pearlman
Monday Sep 22, 2025
Monday Sep 22, 2025
Future Planning Series:
“The Dani Plan”
Hey guys, we’re excited you joined us today! This is such a great episode! Our families know all too well the endless amounts of documentation required of us, just to get through the day let alone to plan for the future. Medication charts, daily schedules, appointment calendars there is so much to track. Our guests today get it. And what’s more they’ve created something to help!
Joel and Debbie, have three children including their 24 year old daughter Danielle, who is diagnosed with non verbal Autism. After first documenting Dani’s life in files stored on a computer, to be sure that if something happened to them, family or caregivers could step in and understand Dani’s everyday needs. Joel knew there had to be a better way. So In 2023, he and his new business partners launched the Dani Plan, and created a tool that would give caregivers an easy way to document, update, store, and share every detail of their loved one’s lives in a secure and safe environment.
Bio:
Joel Pearlman is a lifelong entrepreneur starting his first venture at 14, selling blow pops with his best friend out of his high school locker. While a student at Eastern Michigan University, he started his second business, a technology company with his high school business partner. For 32 years, he and his partner ran Image One, a successful business receiving multiple awards both locally and nationally including Forbes Magazine list of top 25 small businesses in America.
Joel and his wife, Debbie, have three children including 24-year-old Danielle. Dani is nonverbal and has autism. More importantly, she has the most amazingly sweet nature.
While working at Image One, Joel and Debbie documented Dani’s life in word documents stored on their computer. They wanted to make sure that if something happened to them, family or caregivers could step in and understand her everyday needs and the nuances of caring for her. They found the process unstructured and tedious, and Joel knew there had to be a better way. In 2022, Joel stepped into an Advisory Role at Image One, freeing his time to build a new business. A tool that would give caregivers an easy way to document, update, store and share every detail of their loved one’s lives in a secure and safe environment. In 2023, Joel and his new business partners launched the Dani Plan.
Website: daniplan.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MyDaniPlan/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mydaniplan/
For a family raising a child with special needs, life can be difficult. There are many storms to weather and struggles to address, and we often feel isolated and alone due to the nature of our circumstances. Families have a need to connect and find resources, a need to be encouraged, and a need for hope as we walk down what can be a very hard road at times. Hope on the Hard Road Special Needs Podcast was created for this purpose. Our vision is to grow a thriving community, where families with children of all ages with special needs can feel connected, be encouraged, and find hope for the road ahead. Connect with Us: If you enjoy this podcast please share us with others and be sure to follow us so won’t miss an episode. We’d love to hear from you so please leave us a comment or rating and connect with us on social media or on our website.
Email us: [email protected]
Website: https://hopeonthehardroad.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeonthehardroad/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeonthehardroad/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2621447987943459
Free Youtube Resource Library: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsSAfvTkSy87X-fEqtVR2qvo7w9UQBuxz
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Hope on the Hard Road, Inc. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, medical, or legal advice.

Monday Sep 08, 2025
“Putting the Puzzle Pieces Together” with Amanda Owen
Monday Sep 08, 2025
Monday Sep 08, 2025
Future Planning Series:
“Putting the Puzzle Pieces Together” with Amanda Owen

You’re not gonna want to miss this inspiring episode with author, speaker, and entrepreneur, Amanda Owen, founder and executive director of Puzzle Pieces in Owensboro, Kentucky. Amanda shares her journey from special education teacher and sibling to nonprofit leader, highlighting the challenges, triumphs, and personal motivations behind her mission. On this first episode of our Future Planning Series, We talk about the impact of community support, innovative programs, and how her organization transforms lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Don’t miss Amanda’s heartfelt stories and empowering message. Let’s get started!
Bio:
Amanda Owen is a dynamic storyteller, advocate, and changemaker. As an author, speaker, podcaster, and nonprofit founder, she has dedicated her life to championing individuals with disabilities. Inspired by her older brother Nick, one of the first in the world diagnosed with a rare chromosomal disability, Amanda's journey into advocacy began at home. This unique experience ignited her passion for inclusion and advocacy from a young age. Determined to make a difference, Amanda became a special education teacher but soon realized her vision for empowering families extended beyond the classroom. Over 12 years ago, she made the bold decision to leave teaching and launch Puzzle Pieces, a Kentucky-based nonprofit that provides life-changing services to individuals with disabilities. From residential living to vocational training, supported employment, and the region’s only targeted autism programming, Amanda’s organization now serves over 400 clients with the support of a dedicated team of 100+ staff members and a $6 million operating budget. Amanda’s work has set a new standard for disability services both statewide and nationally. She was appointed by the Kentucky Governor to the Employment First Council and was recognized as a 40 Under 40 influential leader in her community. As a sought-after speaker, she shares her unique sibling perspective and insights on advocacy with audiences across the country. Amanda's recently released memoir, "Rarely Different," offers a deeply personal look into her life as a special needs sibling, providing a perspective that resonates with many families navigating similar challenges. Her life’s mission is clear: to ensure people with disabilities are not just included, but celebrated within their communities. Amanda's infectious energy and relentless optimism inspire everyone around her to dream big, work hard, and embrace the lessons that come with failure. Above all, Amanda encourages people to show up authentically and never forget to find joy in the journey. Amanda loves connecting with families and caregivers, offering support, sharing experiences, and building a community of understanding. Connect with her on Instagram @pieceofmebyamanda or visit her website at piecesofme.org to follow along on her journey and learn more. www.piecesofme.org www.puzzle-pieces.org @piecesofmebyamanda
www.piecesofme.org
www.puzzle-pieces.org
@piecesofmebyamanda
For a family raising a child with special needs, life can be difficult. There are many storms to weather and struggles to address, and we often feel isolated and alone due to the nature of our circumstances. Families have a need to connect and find resources, a need to be encouraged, and a need for hope as we walk down what can be a very hard road at times. Hope on the Hard Road Special Needs Podcast was created for this purpose. Our vision is to grow a thriving community, where families with children of all ages with special needs can feel connected, be encouraged, and find hope for the road ahead. Connect with Us: If you enjoy this podcast please share us with others and be sure to follow us so won’t miss an episode. We’d love to hear from you so please leave us a comment or rating and connect with us on social media or on our website.
Email us: [email protected]
Website: https://hopeonthehardroad.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeonthehardroad/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeonthehardroad/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2621447987943459
Free Youtube Resource Library: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsSAfvTkSy87X-fEqtVR2qvo7w9UQBuxz
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Hope on the Hard Road, Inc. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, medical, or legal advice.

Hope on the Hard Road, Inc
Hope on the Hard Road Inc. is a 501c3 nonprofit ministry dedicated to helping connect and encourage families with children of all ages with special needs through programs designed to support the unique needs of the individual, the family, and the community.
Check our or website
