Navigating Loneliness and Relationships with Disabilities

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock explores loneliness among individuals with disabilities, examining the paradox of feeling lonely despite constant presence of caregivers. He discusses maintaining boundaries, independence, and the silent challenges of needing assistance. Nicolas addresses issues like personal space, friendships, holidays, financial struggles, and parenting. The episode highlights the importance of relationships, dispels misconceptions about the social needs of disabled individuals, and emphasizes the universal need for affection. Nicolas invites listeners to engage with future episodes and shares his final thoughts.

Empowering Disabled Entrepreneurs Amid Government Challenges

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock delves into the theme of self-reliance against the backdrop of current events, starting with an introduction to the topic. He discusses the implications of a government shutdown on individuals with disabilities, emphasizing the need for empowerment among disabled entrepreneurs. Nicolas analyzes political party policies regarding disability benefits and explores ways to move beyond government assistance. He highlights the importance of understanding asset limits and spend down programs, advocating for backup plans within the disabled community. The episode concludes with insights on a GoFundMe campaign and contact information for speaking engagements.

Why Caregiving is More Than a Job with Tony Britt of ViaQuest

The Nick Speaks Podcast goes on the road! This special episode was recorded live during Nick’s speaking engagement at ViaQuest. The tables are turned as Nick steps into the guest seat, interviewed by Tony Britt, Vice President of Day Services at ViaQuest. Together, they explore Nick’s personal journey with legal blindness, the challenges and triumphs that shaped his path, and how vocational rehabilitation helped him discover his career purpose. Nick also reflects on his podcasting journey, favorite moments, and the powerful role technology plays in his success. The conversation dives into the heart of caregiving—both its emotional and physical sides—offering real insight and encouragement for anyone on a similar path.

Building Bridges: Supporting DSPs and Transforming Disability Services

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock chats with Bethany Toledo McFray about her journey in disability services and managing group homes. They tackle staffing challenges and the vital role of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). Bethany discusses the Ohio Alliance of Direct Support Professionals (OADSP) and its credentialing and leadership initiatives. They also cover preparing high school seniors for DSP roles, feedback from OADSP programs, and Lighthouse Cove's rebranding goals. The episode highlights community building, supporting DSPs, and events like "Beat the Winter Blues," ending with advice for DSPs and resource contacts.

Real Talk: Dating, Consent, and Advocacy for People with Disabilities

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock is joined by Tiff Bowen as they dive into a range of topics centered around disability advocacy and personal experiences. They begin with Thanksgiving stories and the mission of Tiff's Real Talk initiative. The conversation shifts to the importance of good food at events, touching on Synergy Conference challenges. Tiff shares insights on Real Talk, sexual education, and the complexities of dating with disabilities. They discuss media influences, online scams, and the need for empathy and double staffing in caregiving. The episode wraps up with a recap, promotion of Tiff's classes, and a parental advisory note.

Reimagining Employment: Beyond Piece Rate and Sheltered Workspaces

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock welcomes Kodey Kreglow, who delves into his journey in disability services and advocacy. Kodey shares his personal connection to the field, challenges in employment for the disabled, and issues like sub-minimum wage. He highlights success stories and the impact on disability employment rates. The discussion emphasizes the role of public speaking, networking, and collaboration with organizations like Best Buddies. Kodey also reflects on his transition to Ohio State Mansfield and stresses the importance of self-advocacy and accommodations in college. He offers advice for students with disabilities entering college.

Fitting In: The System Wasn’t Built for Me

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock shares his journey of feeling unemployable, discussing self-care and challenges with disability services. He talks about relocating for better benefits and living with a high-functioning disability, including caregiver neglect and advocacy frustrations. Nicolas reevaluates disability advocacy, perceptions of arrogance, and systemic change. The conversation touches on medical costs, sub-minimum wage issues, and future podcast directions. He also addresses emotional vulnerability, the Medicaid denial process, and community solutions. The episode concludes with closing remarks and a preview of the next episode.

Overcoming Challenges: Advocacy, Technology, and Caregiving in the Disability Community

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock shares his journey with vocational testing and his engagement with ViQuest. He discusses overcoming challenges related to blindness, low expectations, and stereotypes, and how these experiences led him to discover public speaking and launch the Nick Speaks podcast. Nicolas reflects on his favorite podcast episodes and the significant impact of technology in his life. The episode also delves into the importance of caregiving, posing thoughtful questions for caregivers to consider, and highlights the supportive role of Rekindle Living. It concludes with encouraging words for caregivers and contact information for further resources.

Advocacy, Community Inclusion, and Transition Planning with Elizabeth Wietmarschen and Alex Corwin

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock chats with Elizabeth Wietmarschen and Alex Corwin about community inclusion and insights from a keynote address. Elizabeth discusses her advocacy at OCALI, and both share their paths to the organization. They explore transition planning and skills building for disabled youth, comparing public and private education. The conversation highlights OCALI's early transition initiatives and life skills framework, emphasizing supportive communities for families with disabilities, provider encouragement, and workforce integration. They also advocate for fair wages and inclusivity, focusing on efforts in Cincinnati, and promote OCALI resources and sponsors.

Navigating Disability Benefits, Employment, and Advocacy with Paizha Grigsby

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock welcomes TikTok personality Paizha Grigsby to discuss disability benefits and special education challenges. Paizha critiques special education programs, shares job search struggles, and explores employer perceptions. They discuss resources for people with disabilities in California, touching on cost of living and natural disasters. Paizha shares her worst date and social security benefit challenges, highlighting limitations and alternatives. Influencer Chelsea Abert's disability journey and independent living challenges are also discussed. Paizha offers inspiration on community and perseverance, while Nicolas emphasizes fulfillment. The episode ends with thanks, sponsor acknowledgment, and contact info.

Navigating Advocacy, Emotional Health, and Humor with Sarah Davies

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock welcomes guest Sarah Davies and discusses her new business and experiences navigating the system. They explore communication, boundaries in advocacy, and tackle issues of inconsistent information and burnout. Sarah shares her personal struggles, hopes for change, and thoughts on emotional health. They discuss conflict resolution, trauma-informed care, and the value of Davies Consulting services, highlighting the importance of non-system relationships. Fiscal responsibility and support options are examined, and the role of humor in advocacy is celebrated. The episode concludes with encouragement for Sarah's podcast, sponsorship from Restorative Massage and Wellness Studio, and closing remarks.

Church Inclusion, Mental Health Stigma, and SNAP Benefits with Roy Jones

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock and guest Roy Jones celebrate 700 YouTube subscribers and discuss Roy's background. They explore physical vs. mental disabilities, focusing on mental health stigma in families and churches. The conversation highlights the need for mental health training for church leaders and experiences of exclusion. Nicolas shares his journey with church and disability, advocating for greater inclusion. They also discuss Medicaid, affordable housing, SNAP rules, and strategies for vulnerable groups. The episode wraps up with social media, sleep issues, sponsorship from Columbus Restorative Massage, and a promotion of Nicolas' book chapter.

Navigating Friendship, Boundaries, and Mental Health Reflections

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock reflects on the complexities of friendship, sharing insights from his personal mental health journey and encouraging listener engagement. He discusses navigating friendships and setting personal boundaries, along with coping with stress and hospital experiences. Nicolas highlights the importance of tackling loneliness and building a support network, sharing personal stories of overcoming challenges. He examines church experiences and offers critiques, concluding with thoughts on community support. The episode features sponsorships from Columbus Restorative Massage and Wellness Studio and wraps up with a book promotion and closing remarks.

Charity or Business? The Financial Critique of March of Dimes

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock shares updates on his journey, announces a new book, and a GoFundMe campaign. He discusses misuse of funds by disability organizations with guest Julia Bramwell MD. Julia critiques March of Dimes' support and finances, proposing fixes and highlighting government disability funding issues. They emphasize the need for transparency in Medicaid and examine March of Dimes' spending and website challenges. The episode invites March of Dimes for a response, explores advocacy challenges, and calls for fiscal responsibility in budget allocation. Listeners are encouraged to engage and March of Dimes is invited to respond.

Caregiver Relationships Tiffany Bowen on Caregiving Advocacy, DSP Challenges

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock chats with Tiffany Bowen about her caregiving journey, covering DSP documentation, leadership's role, and state requirements affecting Medicaid budgets. They discuss DD Awareness Day, self-advocacy, and engaging with local officials for better support. Tiffany emphasizes DSP training, empathy, and the balance between caregiver-client needs. They also explore cultural diversity, financial limitations, and the importance of boundaries and consent. The episode wraps up with strategies for caregiver appreciation, retention, and advocacy, focusing on financial responsibilities for caregivers and clients.

Christine Olson on TIFF: Advocating for Families Through Tragedy and Community Support

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock is joined by Christine Olson, who shares her journey to Florida and the inception of To Inform Families First (TIFF). Christine discusses the notification issues that led to the creation of TIFF and its significance for the special needs community. They delve into how TIFF operates and its policy impact, highlighting the role of faith in overcoming tragedy and expanding TIFF's reach to various vulnerable groups. Personal anecdotes underscore the initiative's importance, and they conclude with a call to action and a preview of upcoming episodes.

Building Community and Future Goals of The Nick Speaks Podcast

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock is joined by Kyle Goodknight, who brings a playful twist as he hijacks the show. They discuss the podcast's origins and expansion, touching on Nick's speaking opportunities and appearances on other podcasts. They emphasize the importance of building a community and seek assistance for guest bookings. A heartwarming encounter with a podcast listener and gratitude to medical staff are shared. The conversation delves into service animals and Nick's unique voice, future goals, collaborations, and the aspiration to interview notable guests. They also explore planning a live podcast event, addressing skepticism, and supporting the podcast. The episode concludes with a special announcement and closing remarks.

Megan Metzger on Capernaum: Inclusion, Belonging, and Empowering Communities

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock chats with Megan Metzger about Capernaum, a ministry dedicated to inclusion for people with disabilities. Megan shares her journey from Young Life to Capernaum, discussing its training, inclusive approach, and global impact. They explore the unique aspects of Columbus Metro Capernaum and a leadership program for adults with disabilities. The conversation also touches on parenting a child with autism and the difference between inclusion and belonging. They highlight the importance of teaching boundaries and community involvement. The episode wraps up with insights on future topics and encouraging listener engagement.

Caregiving Insights with Deritus: Challenges, Rewards, and Building Strong Relationships

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock welcomes Deritus, a primary caregiver and founder of Rekindle Living. Deritus shares his background and the personalized, client-centered approach of his caregiving service. They discuss the challenges and rewards of caregiving, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and personal care plans. The conversation explores staffing challenges, contrasting American and foreign workers, and the cultural differences that impact caregiving. They highlight the significance of passion, flexibility, and effective communication in caregiving roles. Deritus offers insights and advice for caregivers, touching on advocacy and community engagement. The episode concludes with a book recommendation and a teaser for the next episode.

From Origins to Impact The Story of Disability Pride Month

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock and Daniel Rivera discuss Disability Pride Month, its origins, and critiques. They explore equality, political views, and Daniel's personal experiences with bullying and caregivers. The conversation touches on disability pride in relation to other social movements, media representation, and balancing acceptance with the desire for change. They also discuss the influence of family and society, and separating identity from disability. The episode highlights community support and concludes with a call to action for listeners to share their disability acceptance stories.