The Power of Emotions: Navigating Self-Advocacy and Emotional Expression

Nicolas Comstock introduces the episode with a focus on self-advocacy and emotional expression, highlighting their importance for individuals with disabilities. He acknowledges the episode's sponsor, Goodnight Podcasting Solutions, before delving into the topic of emotions. Nicolas discusses the concept of emotional suppression and its detrimental impact, emphasizing the need for individuals to express their emotions freely. He explores the themes of dependency and the significance of listening and validating negative emotions. The conversation touches on overcoming emotional abuse and finding balance in emotional expression. Nicolas concludes with thoughts on engaging with the podcast and encourages continued dialogue on these vital issues.

Not Just a Desk Job: How I’m Expanding My Influence Through Personal Connections

Nicolas Comstock kicks off the episode with New Year greetings, setting a hopeful tone for the year ahead. He delves into the ongoing employment challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and emphasizes the importance of community inclusion. Nicolas offers insights into global accessibility, exploring how different countries address these issues. The conversation shifts to the impact of COVID-19 on the lives of people with disabilities, highlighting both challenges and resilience. Nicolas discusses government policies that affect disability advocacy, stressing the need for continued efforts in this area. The episode concludes with thoughtful closing remarks, encouraging listeners to remain engaged in advocacy efforts.

Merit-Based Hiring for People with Disabilities: Angela Fowler on Overcoming Stigma

Angela Fowler joins Nicolas Comstock to discuss her journey in starting Real Life Access, sharing inspirations and challenges she faced. They delve into employment statistics for people with disabilities and address issues with government-funded job programs, incorporating the working genius theory. The conversation shifts to language sensitivity, specifically the use of the word "retard," and the importance of clear communication in advocacy. Angela discusses prayer, intentional impairment, and offers support advice for parents of children with disabilities. They explore the impact of negative medical opinions and tease an upcoming project. The episode emphasizes empowerment, personal growth, taking initiative, and handling empty promises.

From Stage Debuts to Choir Snipers: Nicolas and Daniel Reflect on High School Memories and Music

Nicolas Comstock welcomes back Daniel Rivera for a discussion on trauma bonding and the role of humor in disability advocacy. They explore the impact of social media on advocacy efforts and share how they met, reflecting on school experiences and challenges within the special education system. The episode delves into friendship dynamics, therapy insights, and forming a singing group, recounting school lunch experiences and government policies. Nicolas and Daniel share performance memories, teacher influences, and Sharon's impact, addressing bullying and the rise of social media. They discuss pastoral roles, church singing experiences, the sniper incident's effects, and adding David to the choir. The episode concludes with holiday greetings and farewells.

Home Healthcare: My Frustrations, Advocacy, and the Need for Reform

Nicolas Comstock welcomes listeners and shares a milestone from his YouTube channel, providing contact information for further engagement. He opens up about living with CMV and his personal need for 24/7 care, discussing the challenges faced with caregivers, including language barriers, cooking skills, and professionalism. Nicolas addresses the casual approach some caregivers have towards their roles, highlighting issues like misuse of time and lack of professionalism. He emphasizes the importance of punctuality, commitment, and proper training to protect clients and address their vulnerability. The episode explores the dynamics of friendship and advocacy in caregiving, concluding with thoughts on home healthcare reforms and encouraging listener engagement.

Empowering Parenthood: Aaron DeVries on Inclusivity, Advocacy, and Independent Living

Nicolas Comstock introduces Aaron DeVries, who shares his personal journey as the Inclusive Dad. Aaron discusses discovering his daughter's condition and the importance of ensuring inclusivity for children with disabilities. He offers valuable insights on advocating for children in various settings and reflects on parenting lessons learned. Aaron emphasizes the strength found in community and hobbies, and discusses planning for a child's future, addressing concerns about independent living. He shares efforts in fostering independence and starting an inclusion-focused podcast, highlighting the role of social media advocacy. The episode concludes with final thoughts on supporting inclusivity.

Empowering Connections: Dana Charlton on Advocacy, OSDA, and Self-Advocacy Strategies

Join Nicolas Comstock as he introduces Dana Charlton, who shares her inspiring journey in the disability community. Dana discusses her early teaching experiences, the significance of advocacy, and her transition to OSDA, highlighting efforts in community integration. Discover OSDA's impact and Project STIR's role in leadership advocacy training. The episode delves into the Synergy Conference's themes of empowerment and collaboration, offering strategies for self-advocacy and understanding support systems. Dana shares insights on overcoming doubts and embracing independence. Nicolas wraps up with gratitude and a teaser for the next episode.

Navigating Holiday Challenges: Gratitude, Kindness, and Finding Joy

Nicolas Comstock begins the episode with an introduction to the unique challenges faced during the holiday season. He emphasizes gratitude and appreciation for caregivers, acknowledging their vital role. Nicolas addresses coping with loneliness and loss during the holidays, offering insights into managing these feelings. He discusses the transition to adult holiday responsibilities and the pursuit of joy amidst these changes. Highlighting the importance of acts of kindness, Nicolas encourages listeners to engage in meaningful gestures during the holiday season. The episode concludes with closing thoughts on maintaining gratitude and fostering support within the community.

There is more to life than these 4 walls

Nicolas Comstock begins with an introduction and housekeeping notes before delving into the challenges faced after graduation. He addresses the issue of post-school isolation and emphasizes the importance of finding a community, likening it to finding a "Klingon club" for a sense of belonging. Nicolas explores the impact of parental neglect and encourages looking beyond superficial parenting to build a strong support system. He discusses the importance of future planning for children with special needs, providing insights into creating a sustainable and supportive environment. The episode wraps up with closing thoughts and next steps for listeners.

Nick's message to President Trump

Nicolas Comstock opens the episode with a personal message to the president-elect, addressing financial limitations faced by disabled individuals reliant on Social Security. He discusses how changes in political administration can impact disability benefits and advocates for increased employment opportunities and caregiver support. Nicolas calls for policy reform to alleviate financial restrictions and highlights the need for better disability representation in government, including parking law enforcement. The episode also delves into Medicaid and Social Security reform, emphasizing the importance of life insurance for people with disabilities. Nicolas concludes with closing remarks and gratitude for his listeners.

From YouTube to TikTok: Personal Insights, Hobbies, and Life Pleasures Beyond Disability

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock opens with a warm welcome and shares his journey from YouTube to TikTok, highlighting encouragement from Daniel Rivera. He delves into his entertainment preferences, discussing TV shows, buffets, and his admiration for Judge Judy. Nicolas talks about his food favorites, including fast food and audiobooks, and mentions his interest in Megyn Kelly. He shares his hobbies, such as playing piano, and offers personal insights into family, Halloween, and friendship's importance. He reflects on life's pleasures, like dining experiences and pina coladas, and discusses his social media presence and sports indifference. The episode concludes with contact information, speaking engagements, and closing remarks.

Overcoming Dyscalculia: Michelle Steiner's Journey of Advocacy and Self-Discovery

Nicolas Comstock hosts Michelle Steiner, who shares her experience with Dyscalculia, a learning disability affecting math skills. Michelle discusses her early diagnosis, school years, and the importance of self-advocacy during college. She highlights the vital role of parental support and her efforts in blogging and advocating for disability awareness. The episode covers strategies for self-advocacy, community engagement, and broadening perspectives beyond disabilities. Michelle wraps up by promoting her blog and online store, with closing remarks and show notes.

Faith, Advocacy, and Mental Health: A Conversation with Roy Jones

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock welcomes guest Roy Jones to discuss their TikTok collaboration and an upcoming meeting. Roy shares his journey in mental health advocacy, tackling misconceptions, including biblical perspectives. He opens up about his personal mental health crisis, family attitudes, and support experiences. They explore mental health first aid, challenges for disabled advocates, and faith's role in coping. The episode covers integrating medication with faith, leading support groups, and breaking stigma in faith communities. Roy emphasizes seeking help, maintaining boundaries, and the importance of his advocacy work.

Empowering Employment: Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Self-Discovery

Nicolas Comstock kicks off the episode with his powerful mantra: "Speak Up, Speak Out, and Speak Loud." He dives into the employment challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and the role of vocational rehabilitation. Nicolas shares his personal desire to contribute to society and addresses taxpayer perspectives. He discusses the discrimination often encountered during job interviews and the benefits of embracing self-employment and podcasting. Nicolas encourages listeners to embark on their journey of self-discovery and carve their own path. He sends a message to employers about the value of hiring disabled individuals and invites collaborations and public speaking opportunities.

Navigating Friendships and Etiquette: Approaching People with Disabilities

Nicolas Comstock begins the episode with an introduction and housekeeping updates. He delves into the topic of navigating inappropriate questions and fostering genuine friendships with individuals with disabilities. Nicolas offers guidance on how to approach and interact respectfully with individuals with disabilities, highlighting societal challenges and the need for disability etiquette education. He addresses common misconceptions about communication difficulties faced by people with disabilities. The episode includes a sponsor mention from Taco Bell and wraps up with closing remarks, including a shoutout to Sherri Shepherd for her advocacy work.

Embracing Disability: Acceptance, and the Power of Support Systems

Nicolas Comstock welcomes listeners to this episode, focusing on the journey of accepting disability and confronting depression. He shares personal experiences and emphasizes the importance of embracing coping mechanisms like journaling and counseling. Nicolas discusses how faith plays a crucial role in accepting disability and highlights the value of having a strong support system. He offers words of support and encouragement to listeners navigating similar challenges. The episode concludes with a recap and information on Nicolas's public speaking engagements.

Empowering Families: Insights and Emotional Support for Special Needs Parenting

Nicolas Comstock introduces the podcast "Nick Speaks," focusing on empowering individuals with disabilities. In this episode, he offers insights and advice for supporting families with special needs children, emphasizing the importance of understanding the emotional impact on both parents and children. Nicolas discusses embracing and engaging with special needs children, providing practical tips and encouragement. The episode concludes with closing remarks and information on how listeners can connect with the podcast.

Balancing Care: Kim Larson-Phillips on Communication, Self-Care, and Professional Boundaries

Nicolas Comstock emphasizes the importance of communication and documentation in caregiving as he introduces guest Kim Larson-Phillips, who has a background in home health care. Kim shares her memorable experiences transitioning from working with children to adults and discusses her roles in different states, highlighting the evolution of language in caregiving. They explore the challenges and responsibilities of a COO, the necessity of self-care, and staff management. The conversation touches on professional boundaries, shared living programs, and advice for new caregivers in Ohio.

Navigating Epilepsy: Daniel Rivera's Journey of Resilience and Advocacy

Nicolas Comstock introduces guest Daniel Rivera. Daniel opens up about his first seizure experiences, including a detailed recount of a school camp incident, and the impact of epilepsy on his high school years. They discuss diagnosis, treatment, and life changes following his epilepsy diagnosis, touching on his continued involvement in sports and education. The episode addresses bullying, misconceptions, and the social impact of epilepsy. Daniel shares his advocacy for disability awareness and emotional resilience, navigating childhood culture, and overcoming adversity with faith and strength. He provides advice for young people with epilepsy and emphasizes empathy and normalizing interactions with disabled individuals.

Navigating Faith: Church Inclusion and Disability Challenges

Nicolas Comstock delves into the intersection of church and disability, sharing personal experiences of isolation and exclusion within religious settings. He discusses the challenges faced in youth groups and the lack of pastoral support. Reflecting on harmful comments and attitudes, Nicolas offers advice for pastors and encouragement for disabled community members. The episode concludes with closing remarks and social media plugs.