Totally Linked : A TotalLink Podcast: Recent Episodes
Angela Davis Couling
Welcome to Totally Linked : the podcast!
This podcast is produced by TotalLink2 Community. TotalLink2 Community is a Northbrook-based nonprofit that helps individuals living with intellectual and developmental disabilities ages 18 years or older and their families in the north suburbs of Chicago. They offer a wide range of person-centered services that promote employment, independence, and strong social connections in their home communities. Their mission is to help adults with disabilities be fully included members of the North Shore community through employment, social opportunities, and lifelong learning.
Community connections and meaningful relationships create a sense of belonging that benefits both people with disabilities and the communities to which they belong. Their programs are designed to get young adults with disabilities in their community and deepen and expand their social connections.
This brings us to our podcast! There is a saying, “if you know one person with a disability, you now know one person with a disability.” Each of us couldn't be more different but we share the need for activity, community, and connection. In our podcast, you’ll hear from TotalLink self-advocates who will give unique perspectives, entertaining stories, insight, and wisdom from their individual perspectives. We think you’ll see a lot of yourself in our stories and learn that we are all… Totally Linked.
Reach out, love deep, and link up with Totally Linked
Finding meaningful work is a challenge for many people with disabilities. It’s part of the mission of our company Total Linked 2 Community. In her story “Working with a purpose” Jenna Pomykalski shows us her approach to work is like playing a role in a play. As an experienced actor, she connects those dots. But it’s not all spotlight and music at work. There can be surprising struggles. But like a musical, the show must go on and so does work.
Kai Shapiro’s story speaks of a desire to connect through profound artistic creative output. As you’ll hear, Kai is a multi-faceted artist with a beautiful voice expressed in many ways. Today they take us on a journey of self-acceptance and eventually, self-love.
Please note: At the time of the recording of this episode, Kai was going by the name "Nate".
By no means is having a disability easy. In this moving story, Nick Betsoleiman explains his day-to-day struggles in his community. As an advocate working directly within his town, he is a voice for change. Sometimes pain can be a powerful catalyst for change. His story has challenges and it’s vital we hear the obstacles so we can build a better world.
Nina Santacrose is a one-woman music machine. In her story, you’ll hear not only how music motivates her, but the musicality of her storytelling. She even gives a few pointers on how to find the music you love. Prepare to dance along, sing along and let your heart hear her story!
Sarah Weinstein is many things and one of them is a superhero! Her superpower? Kindness. Hear her journey as she grows into the powerhouse she is by exploring her foundation of kindness. Then step by step she’ll show you how to unleash that power in your everyday life.