Empowering Ability Podcast

In this episode, Eric Goll dives into the real fears families face when considering community inclusion developmental disabilities and offers compassionate, practical advice to move forward. If you’ve been feeling stuck between the safety of segregated programs and the promise of ordinary community life, this episode is for you.   Listeners will discover: - The four most common fears families have about inclusion - The truths and data that dispel misconceptions - Real-life stories that bring hope and understanding - Practical first steps you can take toward inclusive community living   Why this matters: Moving toward genuine inclusion is a pathway to independence, valued relationships, and a fulfilling daily life for your loved one — and peace of mind for your family.   Ready to start planning? Download your FREE Life Planning 101 Guide at https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-101-guide/

In this episode, Eric Goll shares a personal story about his sister Sarah and the challenges of traditional disability-only day programs. He explores why these segregated settings often create isolation rather than connection. Listeners will learn what true community inclusion means and why it matters deeply for the quality of life of people with developmental disabilities.   Discover: - The hidden realities of day programs and how they limit independence - What authentic community inclusion for people with disabilities looks like in everyday life - Practical first steps families can take to move toward meaningful community participation - How embracing inclusion transforms lives, relationships, and opportunities   This episode matters because every person with a developmental disability deserves to belong fully in their community. Segregation not only limits potential but also reinforces outdated societal views. Real inclusion builds belonging, growth, and contribution.   Ready to start planning? Download yo

In this episode, Eric Goll explores the empowering concept of self determination disability and how it can transform the way families support their loved ones with developmental disabilities. Whether you’re new to the concept or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode breaks down the key ideas, benefits, challenges, and practical steps to get started.   Listeners will discover:   - What self determination disability actually means and how it works - The difference between agency-managed supports and individualized funding - The pros and cons families face when choosing self determination - Tips for creating a life plan to guide meaningful supports   Understanding self determination is vital because it shifts control and choice to your loved one and family, fostering independence and dignity. With the right tools and knowledge, families can create supportive environments tailored to real goals and dreams.   Ready to start planning? Download your FREE Life Planning 101 Guide at https://www.empowering

In this episode, Eric Goll dives into one of the most essential yet often overlooked topics for families: teaching safety skills to loved ones with developmental disabilities. Eric shares practical strategies to empower your loved one to recognize danger, set boundaries, and respond confidently to emergencies.   What you’ll discover: - Why adults with developmental disabilities face higher safety risks - The five foundational safety skills every family should teach - Real-world examples of teaching boundaries and emergency response - Simple, actionable steps to start building these skills today   Safety skills aren’t just about avoiding harm—they are the foundation for true independence and dignity for your loved one. Eric’s warm, empathetic guidance helps families feel hopeful and prepared to tackle this critical area.   Ready to start planning? Download your FREE Life Planning 101 Guide at https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-101-guide/

In this episode, Eric Goll tackles the challenging but crucial question that every family member faces: what will happen to my disabled child when I die? Rather than avoiding the topic, Eric shares practical insights and real-life stories to help you create a customized Life Plan that protects your loved one’s independence and wellbeing.   Listeners will discover: - The common risks families face without a written plan - Why informal assumptions can lead to chaos and hardship - A clear, four-step process to build and implement a Life Plan - Legal and financial strategies to protect social benefits and ensure proper guardianship alternatives   Planning your loved one’s future isn’t just paperwork—it’s about ensuring an Awesome Ordinary Life filled with connection, dignity, and purpose. This episode empowers families to move from fear and uncertainty to hope and action.   Ready to start planning? Download your FREE Life Planning 101 Guide at https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-101-guide/

In this episode, Eric Goll shares the powerful 8-step roadmap that transformed his family’s approach to future planning for adults with disabilities. If you’ve felt overwhelmed or unsure where to begin, this episode offers clear guidance to create a customized life plan centered on your loved one's strengths, dreams, and independence.   Listeners will discover: - Why defining a "good life" must come before legal or housing discussions - The importance of nurturing genuine friendships and meaningful community roles - How to increase capability and independence with small, steady steps - Ways to design a home and support system that truly fits your loved one   Planning for the future can be daunting, but with the right tools, any family can build an Awesome Ordinary Life full of dignity, contribution, and belonging.   Ready to start planning? Download your FREE Life Planning 101 Guide at https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-101-guide/

As 2025 ends, many families care deeply about creating a secure, independent future for their loved ones with developmental disabilities. In this episode, Eric Goll shares four essential keys—from persistence to positivity and planning—that families can use to make 2026 their best year yet.   Listeners will discover: How to turn persistence into intentional, strategic action Why pacing goals to your loved one’s unique rhythm matters The power of celebrating small wins to build momentum How to create and use a customized life plan for steady progress   These keys are vital because steady progress builds hope, independence, and real change. Planning with intention and patience creates a roadmap to a good life, offering peace of mind for families and dignity for your loved one.   Ready to start planning? Download your FREE Life Planning 101 Guide at https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-101-guide/

In this episode, Eric Goll shares a powerful personal story about his sister Sarah and the mindset shifts that unlocked her potential. Discover why focusing on what your loved one can do, rather than what they can’t, is the most important step you can take.   Listeners will discover: - How low expectations limit opportunities and how to break that cycle - The importance of strength-based thinking over deficit-based approaches - Why moving away from "special needs" thinking creates freedom and inclusion - Practical tips to practice a high-expectation mindset every day   This episode matters because your mindset is more powerful than any funding or program; your belief can open doors for a fulfilling, connected, and independent life.   Ready to start planning? Download your FREE Life Planning 101 Guide

In this episode, Eric Goll shares heartfelt and practical insights gained from his sister Sarah’s journey to more independent living. Discover how shifting your role from caregiver to coach can unlock your loved one’s potential and build their confidence step by step. Eric breaks down essential life skills into manageable groups and offers actionable guidance to help families support adults with disabilities flourishing in their communities.   What you’ll discover: - Why independence means interdependence and the right support, not zero support - The three key groups of living skills to focus on: Essentials, Adulting, and Advanced - How to overcome low expectations and set a high-expectation mindset - Practical tips to shift from doing tasks for your loved one to coaching alongside them   This episode matters because teaching life skills gives your loved one freedom, dignity, and a richer life — and brings peace and less worry to your entire family.   Ready to start planning? Download your FREE Life Planning

In this episode, I share the story of my sister Sarah and how we found better alternatives to group homes that gave her a life of independence, dignity, and joy. Many families feel forced to accept group home placements, but there are real options that offer more privacy, control, and community connection.   What you’ll discover: - What group homes are and why they may not suit everyone - The ins and outs of Supported Independent Living and Shared Living - How creating a customized home can transform lives - Practical steps to begin planning for a better future   Deciding where and how your loved one lives is one of the most important choices you’ll make. Learning about these alternatives empowers you to make intentional decisions that lead to meaningful, secure, and fulfilling futures.   Ready to start planning? Download your FREE Life Planning 101 Guide 

In this episode, Eric Goll opens up about a common but challenging question many families face: what is a group home, and is it truly the right choice for your loved one with a developmental disability?   Listeners will discover: - The three main types of group homes and how they differ - The real pros and cons families experience with group homes - Important safety considerations every family should know - Practical, hopeful alternatives to create a true home environment   This conversation matters because housing impacts not just safety, but independence, dignity, and quality of life. Group homes are not the only path—there are ordinary, empowering options that honor your loved one’s unique needs and dreams.   Ready to start planning a future that fits your family’s hopes and needs? Download your FREE Life Planning 101 Guide and take your first step with confidence and hope.

Whether you're getting ready for your loved one to move out of the family home, OR - just trying to prepare them for independence, There is one important life skill they need to learn. And no, it's not about cooking, cleaning, or handling money... It's about knowing how to ask for help. I remember when I first started to gain more independence. Then when I moved out of my parents home for the first time and went to college. I did not know everything that I needed to know. (Even though I thought I did) I couldn't cook, clean, or manage my schedule properly. I learned as I went, and that's how most of us do it. What got me through was... the ability to ask for help. Many families may fear that their loved one isn't ready to move out. But no one ever has every skill they need at first. Listen to this episode to learn how to support your loved one to learn how to ask for help.  

There's a cafe a few towns over that hires mostly individuals with developmental disabilities.You may have seen these types of businesses in your area: a cafe, a thrift store, or a packaging facility.The family behind the cafe started it to provide employment for their daughter and to create opportunities for other people with disabilities.A heartwarming story...BUT once you look past the feel-good story, you can see the challenges with this model of employment for people with a disability.In this podcast, I teach you how to think critically about employment for your loved one with a disability and set them up for success.

Learn how to help your loved one live an awesome, ordinary life! Register for the Life Plan Workshop now: https://www.empoweringability.org/2024lifeplanworkshop/   To get more videos like this, Subscribe to my YouTube channel here: https://bit.ly/YoutubeEricGoll Once Your loved one is defined as 'Special,' their life trajectory changes drastically. You might have been told they will never graduate, live independently, or get a job. There are a lot of “they will never” thrown your way. Well, I'm here to tell you that "they CAN!"  Join me in this episode as I share inspiring success stories of parents just like you who have helped their loved ones transition from the "special" category to living an awesome ordinary life.  Plus, don't miss out on our upcoming free Life Plan Workshop, where I'll guide you through creating a personalized plan for your loved one's success. Let's make extraordinary happen together! Register for the Life Plan Workshop now: https://www.empoweringability.org/2024lifeplanworkshop/    

Register now to get your spot in the free Life Plan Workshop: https://www.empoweringability.org/2024workshop/   To get more videos like this, Subscribe to my YouTube channel here: https://bit.ly/YoutubeEricGoll There are times that you get worried about the future of your loved one with a developmental disability... You are not alone. My sister, Sarah, finished high school without any good opportunities and ended up in my parent's basement for the next 10 years until we finally found a solution.  Our society often isolates people like my sister and your loved one, offering little opportunities and separating them from ordinary life. But it doesn't have to be that way.  In this episode, I share how we helped my sister create an Awesome Ordinary Life with a Life Plan. It's never too early or late to start, so watch the video to learn how to get started with your loved one.    

Learn how to create your loved one's Life Plan. Join the Life Plan Workshop Waitlist now: https://www.empoweringability.org/workshopwaitlist/ The 'Special' plan that others have for your loved one with a developmental disability is not a good one. (i.e. a group home and a day program) This is why you must work with your loved one to build your life plan. Person-centered planning is about building a life plan for your loved one that is individualized to them and leads to an awesome, ordinary future full of meaning and opportunities.  Listen to this episode to learn more about Person-centered planning and how to get started on your loved one's plan! Join me for an insightful journey into person-centered planning in my upcoming Life Plan Workshop. Let's create a future full of hope and possibilities.  Secure your spot on the workshop waitlist now: https://www.empoweringability.org/workshopwaitlist/  

Download a FREE copy of my “Life Planning 101 Guide” to start your loved one's Life Plan Now:  https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-guide/ To get more videos like this, Subscribe to my YouTube channel here: https://bit.ly/YoutubeEricGoll At 16, I faced a pivotal moment when my parents told me that they named me in their wills to care for my older sister.  As a sibling, being told I have this responsibility was daunting. You might face a similar situation, unsure how to engage a sibling for support. In this episode, I will show you how to engage neurotypical siblings for support and relieve the unspoken tension from future care conversations. Don't forget to grab your free copy of the Life Planning 101 Guide to get started. Let's empower your loved ones to live their best lives. Get Guide: https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-guide/

Download a FREE copy of my “Life Planning 101 Guide” to start your loved one's Life Plan Now:  https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-guide/   In this story, I share Gabby's journey from loneliness to empowerment. Just like you, Gabby's mom, Jane, wrestled with the worry of who would be there for her child when she couldn't.  That's where support circles stepped in. Come along as we analyze the power of support circles and how they can change your loved one's life. From building meaningful relationships to fostering independence, the possibilities are endless. Learn how Gabby's life transformed with just five caring individuals by her side. Experience the happiness, growth, and sense of belonging that reshaped Gabby's world. Ready to take the first step toward creating a brighter future for your loved one? Click to listen now and discover a path filled with hope!   Don't forget to grab your free copy of the Life Planning 101 Guide to get started. Let's empower your loved ones to live their best lives

Download a FREE copy of my “Life Planning 101 Guide” to start your loved one's Life Plan Now:  https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-guide/ To get more videos like this, Subscribe to my YouTube channel here: https://bit.ly/YoutubeEricGoll As a caregiver, you're the backbone of support for your loved one with a disability. But what happens when you're not there?  This fear might haunt many families, and we'll tackle this crucial question in this episode. Most paid support workers won't be there for your loved one, which has been our family experience. They usually come and go, leaving little lasting impact.  So, who's the person you should be trusting with your loved one? It's the neurotypical people in genuine relationships with your loved ones. They stick around because they care. But how do you find them? Listen to the episode to learn more. Don't forget to grab your free copy of the Life Planning 101 Guide to get started. Let's empower your loved ones to live their best lives. Get Guide: https://

Download a FREE copy of my “Life Planning 101 Guide” to start your loved one's Life Plan Now:  https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-guide/ Let me share a personal story about my sister, Sarah. Despite initial challenges, she now lives independently. Initially, I thought Sarah was lazy, but I was wrong. She had learned helplessness. So, I shifted from telling her what to do to coaching her through tasks. From making breakfast to doing laundry, Sarah gained confidence. Watch now for strategies to empower your loved one and nurture their independence. Don't forget to grab your free copy of the Life Planning 101 Guide to get started. Let's empower your loved ones to live their best lives. Get Guide:  https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-guide/