DSP Talk

Asheley Blaise explores the intersection of AI and human services, focusing on its impact on Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). The episode navigates concerns about AI replacing DSPs, emphasizing AI's role in eliminating repetitive tasks and enhancing support quality. Key insights include the need for DSP involvement in tech development and the importance of human judgment and empathy. Ethical considerations regarding AI's data u...

Doug Golub is a seasoned thought leader in the healthcare technology and human services sector with over 20 years of pioneering experience. As a founding member of Microsoft Health Solutions Group, Doug has been pivotal in promoting person-centered practices, Medicaid transformation, and data-driven solutions. Currently, he leads Data Potato LLC, focusing on responsible technology and data utilization, while serving on the AI Commi...

In this episode we unravel the common transition challenges faced when a direct support professional is promoted to a supervisor.

Asheley breaks down several key themes, including the importance of developing people, the art of clear and open communication, cultivating problem-solving capabilities among staff, and the ongoing creation of positive program cultures. From actionable tips on scheduling regular check-ins with your team t...

Monica Robinson is a seasoned leader in workforce advancement, with a rich background as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and various leadership roles within the field. She currently serves as the Vice President of Workforce Advancement at the New York Alliance for Inclusion and Innovation, where she advocates for the workforce's voices and perspectives to be at the forefront. Monica's career trajectory reflects her dedication t...

In this insightful episode, Asheley Blaise delves into the concept of "Dignity of Risk," exploring its crucial role in the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. This episode is a compelling narrative that challenges conventional practices and calls for a transformative shift in thinking among caregivers and support professionals. Through Asheley's lens, dignity of risk isn't about compromising safety, but about nurt...

Christopher Lyons is the CEO of AIM Services Incorporated, a role he has held since 2018. With a rich background as a trial attorney, Christopher has over 25 years of legal experience across various U.S. jurisdictions. He has also served in the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities and has worked as national counsel for a major human services insurance program. Christopher has significantly expanded AIM's...

Explore the essential themes of rights, responsibilities, and advocacy for people with developmental disabilities with Asheley Blaise in DSP Chat. This episode simplifies complex topics like self-advocacy, supported decision making, and creating life plans, emphasizing that people with disabilities are active decision-makers and self-advocates. Learn about promoting independence while respecting autonomy and humanity. Discover how ...

Katrina Hazell is a dynamic motivational speaker, life coach, and author, known for her inspiring book "Special Education to College the Katrina Story, Breaking Those Glass Ceilings". As the founder and Executive Director of Disability Champion Mentoring Network Incorporated, Katrina is dedicated to empowerment, self-direction, and disability advocacy. She holds the position of Vice Chair of the Council on Developmental Disabilitie...

Nick Filarelli is the Executive Director at Core Services of Northeast Tennessee. With nearly two decades of experience, Nick has been transformative in the field of disability services, particularly in integrating technology to promote independence for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He began his career as a direct support professional and became an advocate for enabling technology, sharing his expert...

Mike Veny is a renowned mental health advocate and certified corporate wellness specialist who has profoundly influenced conversations on emotional wellness in both professional and personal spheres. He is celebrated for his transformative journey from a professional drummer dealing with his own mental health challenges to becoming an esteemed leader in mental health advocacy. Mike is the recipient of several accolades, including C...

Michael Hollis is an expert in food systems and urban agriculture, with over two decades of experience at the intersection of food, community, and resilience. He currently holds the position of Vice President for Community Food Security at Services for the Underserved in New York City. Michael has previously managed feeding operations in disaster zones and has a background in environmental compliance and greenhouse design. His work...

Jennifer Stanford Vogt is an established professional in the human services sector, with a career deeply influenced by serendipity and her belief in divine intervention. A graduate of Keuka College in 2008, Jennifer began her journey as a job readiness and GED instructor, eventually transitioning into the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Her roles have included direct support professional (DSP) and staff ...

Sindy McKinnies is a dedicated registered nurse with a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing. She has been associated with Cardinal Hayes Home for Children for nearly 17 years, beginning her journey in 2006 as a Direct Support Professional (DSP). Over the years, Sindy transitioned into her current role as a nurse, bringing her hard-earned expertise and passionate commitment to making a difference in the lives of those she serves. Outsid...

Michael Alcorn is a dedicated student at Mohawk Community College, where he excels in the field of small business studies, having made the principal’s list three times and being an esteemed member of the National Honor Society. Michael is also known for his cheerful demeanor and commitment at Taco Bell, where he is training to become a manager. Despite overcoming learning disabilities, Michael is pursuing his dream to open his own ...

Latima Anderson Mason is an inspiring advocate and a dedicated mother to her daughter who has a disability. As her daughter transitions into adulthood, Latima has taken an active role in navigating the complexities of aging out of support services and exploring guardianship options. Her personal experiences have fueled her passion for advocacy, guiding other families through similar challenges with empathy and insight. Latima is cu...

Michelle Chu is a seasoned program and community builder with over a decade of dedication towards fostering inclusion and connecting people to essential resources. Currently, she works in the Community Connections department at Job Path, where her efforts are directed towards supporting adults with autism and other disabilities. Michelle plays an integral role in the Guac Committee, which stands for Growth, Unity, Accessibility, an...

Geneira Poulis is a seasoned Behavior Intervention Specialist (BIS) with over 14 years of experience in the field of developmental disabilities. She has served in various pivotal roles, ranging from Assistant Program Director to Program Director, and is now dedicated to fostering person-centered, equitable behavior support. Geneira 's approach is deeply informed by her firsthand experiences with systemic injustice. Holding a Master...

Jonathan Meagher-Zayas is the founder and chief strategist of Equity Warrior Strategies LLC, a consulting firm dedicated to advancing equity and social justice within the nonprofit and social impact sectors. With over 14 years of experience, Jonathan specializes in capacity building, leadership development, community engagement, and DEI strategy. He is a queer Latinx nonprofit leader, a social work adjunct professor, a certified fu...

Dr. Sarah Gonzalez Noveiri is a prominent Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at AHRC Nassau, serving since 2022. With a global perspective, they excel in orchestrating evidence-based transformations within organizations to cultivate healthier and more inclusive work cultures. Known as an interdisciplinary scholar and cultural researcher, Dr. Gonzalez Noveiri's work revolves around unraveling how identity, power, and culture i...