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.

Aspen Sage's Journey: Advocacy, Accessibility, and Life Beyond Paralysis

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock speaks with Aspen Sage, who shares their journey through early life trauma and experiences with paralysis. Aspen discusses adapting to life after paralysis, facing mental health challenges, and navigating stigma in healthcare. They talk about founding Accessibility with Aspen Sage and the transition from hospital to home. Aspen explores topics like advocacy, social security disability, and the influence of social media on disability language. The conversation covers educating children about disabilities, friendships, and dating. Aspen shares insights into their project of creating a fully accessible tiny home. The episode concludes with ways to connect with Aspen Sage and information on how to be featured on Nick Speaks.

Two reasons the Nick Speaks podcast exist

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock shares insights into his journey of advocacy and public speaking, addressing employment and financial challenges faced by the disabled community. He discusses the significance of ABLE accounts and GoFundMe support, offering expectations for his role as a speaker. Nicolas critiques current disability policies and the ADA, stressing the need for improved opportunities. He encourages self-advocacy and reflects on personal struggles, faith, and building a fulfilling life. The episode includes calls to action for support and donations, highlights upcoming guests, and concludes with empowering messages for the disabled community.

How Tech Empowers Disabled Lives: Carly Dauch on Need for Assistive Tech in Disability Services

Join Nicolas Comstock and Carly Dauch as they delve into the transformative impact of assistive technology in Ohio. Carly shares her journey and work with Wood County's services, discussing challenges in transportation, health support, and innovative solutions like virtual tours and remote support. They explore medication management, wearable tech, safety sensors, adaptive cooking, and smart home devices. Carly also touches on the assistive tech lending library, privacy concerns, and community involvement. The episode concludes with career advice for those entering the disability sector and reflections on job satisfaction within the Technology First initiative.

Empowering Communities: Kelly Schuck on Advocacy and Ohio's Developmental Disability Services

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock talks with Kelly Shuck about her role as a Community Life Engagement Project Manager and her impact on disability advocacy. Kelly shares her career journey, highlighting achievements and challenges in the field. They discuss Ohio's Technology First initiative, family support, and teaching children about disability work. Topics include inclusivity in education, career aspirations, leadership changes, and the importance of advocacy. Kelly offers advice for those entering disability services, emphasizing passion and Ohio's supportive environment. The episode wraps up with closing remarks and promotions.

Empowering Voices: Phillip Bramwell on Self-Advocacy, Medicaid, and Overcoming Government Neglect

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock and Phillip Bramwell delve into the challenges facing disabled adults, focusing on the victim mentality and lack of investment. They discuss the implications of Medicaid cuts, the importance of stable caregiving, and inconsistencies in the healthcare system. The conversation touches on advocacy for Medicaid improvements, physical therapy, and gym memberships. They explore vocational rehabilitation, employment challenges, and the value of early education. Personal experiences with Medicaid, the fear of losing benefits due to employment, and self-advocacy are shared. The episode also covers dating, Phillip's comedy career, and concludes with advice, comedy show details, and contact information.

We all have basic needs, not special needs: Breaking Barriers Kelsey Weaver Redefining Disability

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock is joined by Kelsey Weaver, who shares her personal journey and insights on living with a disability. Kelsey discusses her background, hobbies, and diagnosis, offering personal stories about her schooling experience and accessibility challenges. The conversation explores faith perspectives, the importance of safe spaces, and overcoming stereotypes. Kelsey highlights her inspirational blogging and advocacy for disability rights, while addressing the impact of inspiration labels. They also discuss terminology, romantic relationships, and Kelsey's interaction with Governor Mike DeWine. The episode concludes with tips for aspiring advocates and Kelsey's final encouragements.

Political Lip Service: The Need for Genuine Advocacy

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock and Dr. Adam Hazlett explore neurodivergence and autism, debating whether autism is a superpower and the importance of parental support. They discuss balancing freedom and protection, caregiver neglect, employment challenges, and ADA regulations. The conversation covers the reclassification of autism by HHS, tokenism, community connections, financial challenges, and political policies on disability. They highlight the value of caregivers and conclude with advocacy, legislative efforts, fundraising, and future plans.

Overcoming Challenges: Kyle Goodknight on Advocacy, Support, and Disability Success Stories

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock is joined by Kyle Goodknight to explore the multifaceted journey within the disability community. They express gratitude to their team and discuss the importance of sponsorship and support for future success. Kyle shares his personal experiences with lifting and learning disabilities, launching a donation page, and the financial challenges faced. The conversation touches on advocacy, government benefits, and the podcast's growth, while also highlighting employment obstacles and necessary support systems. Success stories and the needs of disabled entrepreneurs are discussed, emphasizing work ethic and perseverance. The episode concludes with a promotion of Nick's initiatives and final thoughts.

Advocacy in Action: Kraig Walker on Importance of Community Integration for the Disabled

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock engages with Kraig Walker to explore the nuances of advocacy within the disability services sector. Kraig shares insights from his career, discussing the challenges of balancing needs versus wants and the responsibilities of county boards. They delve into the direct support professional crisis, fiscal responsibility, and career satisfaction in Ohio's disability services. The conversation contrasts state-run and local services, examines funding equity, and highlights the importance of educating legislators. Strategies for federal and state-level advocacy are discussed, along with solutions for stable accounts. The episode concludes with advice for professionals, a call to political involvement, and a book recommendation.

Trailblazing and Transforming: Kat Paz and My Road to becoming an Author

In this special episode, Nicolas Comstock welcomes guest Kat Paz, who shares her background and announces her upcoming book about disabled entrepreneurs. They discuss the impact of caregiving on family dynamics and delve into the challenges faced by the disabled community through personal stories. The conversation highlights the celebration of milestones, addressing family neglect, and Kat's motivation for writing. They explore the collaborative writing process, focusing on employment, and tackle the economic and social stigmas of disability. Inspiring stories, including Nick's chapter in the book, are shared, with encouraging words for listeners and a call for perseverance. The episode concludes with a book promotion.

Breaking Barriers: The Fight for Acceptance with Daniel Rivera

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock is joined by Daniel Rivera to discuss epilepsy and its impact on daily life. Daniel shares his experience with an epilepsy diagnosis in high school, the social exclusion he faced, and the emotional toll of living with seizures. They explore the importance of medication, emergency response strategies, and the role of service dogs. The conversation delves into the financial challenges of disability applications, social stigma, and misconceptions about epilepsy. They also touch on the need for disability education in schools, employment barriers, and the importance of balancing safety and normalcy for special needs children. The episode concludes with reflections and a call for future guests.

Empowering Independence: Advocacy, Nutrition, and Disability Representation: with Dr. Julia

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock examines the government's role in the financial well-being of individuals with disabilities. Joined by Dr. Julia Bramwell, they discuss the benefits of supplements, dietary sources of zinc, magnesium, and vitamin D, and the importance of gut health. Dr. Bramwell shares her experience as a parent of a disabled child, discussing advocacy, overcoming invisibility, and independent living challenges. They also cover managing care for siblings, financial hurdles, and empowering special needs children. The episode ends with a call to action for more disability-focused medical professionals.