Waves of Awareness - WOA it's A Podcast

Hosted by STP Productions

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100

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Aug 2026

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About the show

The Waves of Awareness podcast is all about the amazing work being done by Waves Inc. Waves serves individuals with mental and/or physical disabilities through life skill training, community involvement, employment training and more! This podcast is helping people learn new skills, tell their story and raise awareness for people with disabilities! Be sure to check out wavesinc.com for more information!

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60 recent

September 2, 202631 min

WOA Season 13 Finale: A Family's Early Learning Journey

Wrap up Season 13 of Waves of Awareness with a heartfelt conversation about early intervention, family, growth, and the impact of developmental therapy. In the Season 13 finale of Waves of Awareness, we're joined by Shanelle Rauh, a mom of twins who receive developmental therapy through the Waves Early Learning Program. Shanelle sits down with Matt "The Man" Moore, Johnny Sunshine, Jeni the Star, and Waves CEO Staci Davis to talk about her family's journey with Waves, what led them to the Early Learning Program, and the hopes she has for her children as they continue to grow and learn. She also shares about the changes she's seen in her twins since beginning developmental therapy and what the experience has meant to her as a parent. Whether you're a parent navigating early intervention, someone who works with children and families, or simply want to better understand the impact of these services, this conversation offers a meaningful look at the journey. Plus, the crew shares a few personal updates along the way, from Jeni's job search to birthday plans and Matt's speech therapy sessions. Hit play and celebrate the Season 13 finale with us! ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about Waves Early Learning, visit: https://wavesinc.com/early-learning-program/ To purchase tickets to Waves' Brews & Grooves fundraiser, click here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brews-grooves-a-concert-benefiting-waves-tickets-1988557744745

August 26, 2026Episode 935 min

Person-Centered Practice: Supporting Choice & Independence

What does it really mean to put people at the center of the support they receive? On this episode of Waves of Awareness, Amanda Brewer from the Person Centered Practice Unit at the Tennessee Department of Disability & Aging joins us for a conversation about person-centered support, choice, self-advocacy, and the importance of listening to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Amanda shares insight into what this approach looks like in everyday life—not just as a concept, but as a way to help people have greater choice, control, and opportunities to shape their own lives. Along the way, she shares lessons she's learned from the people she supports and one important idea she hopes everyone remembers about person-centered support. Waves adults John and Jeni join Waves CEO Staci Davis as co-hosts. Jeni also shares an exciting new opportunity with Backlight Productions as she prepares for the upcoming production of Newsies, while John talks about some of his summer highlights and what he's looking forward to this fall. Hit play for a thoughtful conversation about person-centered practices, meaningful choice, and what can happen when we truly listen to the people we support. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about the Department of Disability & Aging, visit: https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging.html For more information about Backlight Productions, visit: https://backlightproductions.org/ To purchase tickets to Waves' Brews & Grooves fundraiser, click here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brews-grooves-a-concert-benefiting-waves-tickets-1988557744745

August 19, 202639 min

Their World Collective: A Community for Moms

On this episode of Waves of Awareness, we're getting to know Their World Collective, a new nonprofit focused on connecting and supporting moms of children with autism. Lindsey Pagley, Executive Director, and Sasha Prince, Operations Director, join us to share what inspired them to start the organization, the community they're building, and the families at the heart of their work. Both Lindsey and Sasha have personal connections to Waves through their children's experiences with the Waves Early Learning Program. Waves Early Learning Program Co-Director Jen Choate joins the conversation as well. Jen provided developmental therapy for Sasha's son and now serves on the Board of Directors for Their World Collective, bringing another perspective to the conversation. Plus, John and Jeni share a few life updates, including John's involvement with the Waves Board of Directors and Jeni's recent visit to the Williamson County Animal Center with our ECF program. Press play to hear more about Their World Collective, autism support, and the community they're creating for moms. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about Their World Collective, visit: https://www.theirworldcollective.org/ To purchase tickets to Waves' Brews & Grooves fundraiser, click here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brews-grooves-a-concert-benefiting-waves-tickets-1988557744745

August 12, 2026Episode 742 min

Growing Side by Side: A Twin Family's Journey

What does early intervention really look like for a family? On this episode of Waves of Awareness, you'll hear from both sides of the journey. Parent Callie Ballard joins the podcast alongside Waves Early Interventionist Michelle Baker to share the story of Callie's twin boys and their experience with developmental therapy through the Waves Early Learning Program. Together, they talk about recognizing developmental delays, taking the first step toward support, and what early intervention looked like in everyday life. Callie opens up about the emotions that often come with seeking services, the progress her sons have made along the way, and the encouragement she'd offer to parents who may be wondering if developmental therapy is the right next step. Michelle shares her perspective as an early interventionist, offering insight into how therapy is tailored to each child and why partnering with families is at the heart of every session. If you're a parent searching for answers, a caregiver navigating developmental milestones, or simply curious about the impact of early intervention, this conversation offers honest stories, practical insight, and hope. Hosted by Waves CEO Staci Davis alongside Waves adult co-hosts Jeni and John, this episode also includes updates from Jeni about her work with Backlight Productions and John's excitement for a few upcoming fall events. Hit play to hear a conversation about growth, partnership, and the difference early support can make. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about Waves Early Learning, go to: https://wavesinc.com/early-learning-program/

August 5, 2026Episode 640 min

Visit Franklin: Beyond the Brochure

On this episode of Waves of Awareness, we're joined by Heather Doleshel, Senior Manager of Stakeholder Engagement at Visit Franklin, for a conversation about what makes Franklin, Tennessee such a special place to live, work, and visit. Heather shares how Visit Franklin supports the local community, the role tourism plays in strengthening small businesses and the local economy, and why partnerships between organizations like Visit Franklin and nonprofits such as Waves are so important. Along the way, she also highlights a few local favorites and hidden gems that both visitors and longtime residents can enjoy. Co-hosting this episode are Johnny Sunshine and Jeni Tanner from Waves, alongside Waves CEO Staci Davis. Johnny and Jeni catch listeners up on what's new in their lives—including Jeni's involvement with the next Backlight Productions show and Johnny's summer adventures. Whether you're a Franklin local, planning a visit, or simply interested in the people and organizations that help communities thrive, this episode offers an inside look at what makes Franklin such a unique place to call home. 🎧 Listen now to discover the stories, partnerships, and local spirit that continue to make Franklin a destination worth experiencing. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about Visit Franklin, go to: https://visitfranklin.com/

July 29, 202632 min

"Access for All: The Heart Behind Elizabeth's Gift "

On this episode of Waves of Awareness, we're joined by Jonathan and Stephen Smith, two of the founders of Elizabeth's Gift, a nonprofit created in honor of their late sister, Elizabeth. Through Elizabeth's Gift, the Smith brothers and their other sister, Caroline, are working to make adaptive equipment more accessible by providing essential resources to people with disabilities at no cost. Jonathan and Stephen share the story behind Elizabeth's Gift, the personal experiences that inspired their mission, and the importance of creating more inclusive communities where people with disabilities have the tools and support they need to thrive. Tune in to hear how one family's journey has grown into a mission that is helping others and creating meaningful impact. Waves adults Johnny Sunshine and Jeni join Waves CEO Staci Davis as co-hosts for this episode. They share updates from their own lives, talk about upcoming community events, and bring their usual energy and personality to the conversation. You may even hear a special musical moment from Jeni! Hit play to hear more about disability advocacy, adaptive equipment access, community support, and the power of turning personal experiences into positive change. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about Elizabeth's Gift, visit: https://www.elizabethsgift.com/ To stay up to date on events with Elizabeth's Gift, follow them on socials @elizabethsgift

July 22, 202643 min

Early Learning Support: A Family's Experience

What does early intervention really look like for a family? On this episode of Waves of Awareness, we're joined by Erica Shannon, mom to Connor, who receives services through the Waves Early Learning Program. Erica shares her family's experience with early intervention, from taking those initial steps to finding support and watching Connor grow through developmental therapy. Hear how Early Learning has helped build Connor's confidence, encouraged new skills, and supported his development, while Erica reflects on the importance of having a strong support system and offers encouragement for parents who may be considering early intervention services for their own child. Co-hosted by Waves adults John and Jeni alongside Waves CEO Staci Davis, this episode also includes fun conversations about favorite music, movies, upcoming Waves events, and Jeni's bingo nights with The Arc of Williamson County. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, or simply passionate about disability inclusion and child development, this episode offers an encouraging look at the impact early support can have on a family's journey. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To purchase presale tickets to Waves' annual Brews & Grooves fundraiser, visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brews-grooves-a-concert-benefiting-waves-tickets-1988557744745 To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/

July 15, 2026Episode 326 min

The Power of Early Intervention: A Mom's Story

On this episode of Waves of Awareness, Waves welcomes Lauren Woodson, a mom from our Early Learning Program, for a heartfelt conversation about her family's experience with early intervention and the impact it has had on their journey. Lauren shares how her family first connected with Waves Early Learning, the ways early intervention has supported her son Noah's growth, and the meaningful relationships that have made a difference along the way. She also reflects on the role of their early interventionist, Miah, and shares encouragement for other parents who may be exploring early learning services for their child. Joining Lauren as co-hosts are Waves adults Johnny Sunshine and Jeni, alongside Waves CEO Staci Davis. Together, they discuss the importance of support at every stage of life, hear more about John and Jeni's experiences at Waves, and catch up on some exciting recent moments — including a special concert experience and upcoming community events. Whether you're a parent navigating developmental milestones, interested in early intervention services, or looking to better understand the impact of inclusive support, this episode offers a glimpse into one family's journey and the connections that help individuals thrive. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To purchase presale tickets to Waves' annual Brews & Grooves fundraiser, visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brews-grooves-a-concert-benefiting-waves-tickets-1988557744745 To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/

July 8, 2026Episode 231 min

Navigating Disability Together: With Caroline Aly of Carehack

What does it really take to support families caring for loved ones with disabilities? This week on Waves of Awareness, we welcome Caroline Aly, Founder and Executive Director of Carehack, for a conversation about caregiving, disability support, and the resources families need most. Joined by Waves CEO Staci Davis and co-host Johnny Sunshine, Caroline shares the story behind Carehack and discusses topics like respite care, consistency, and the everyday challenges many families of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities face. In this episode, you'll hear about: -The mission behind Carehack -Why respite and consistent support matter -Common challenges caregivers face -Ways everyonen can better support families in the disability community Whether you're a caregiver, parent, advocate, or simply want to learn more about the disability community, this conversation is one you won't want to miss. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about Carehack, visit: https://www.carehack.org/

July 1, 2026Episode 136 min

Season 13 Kickoff in Fairview

The voices of Waves are back for a brand-new season of Waves of Awareness! Welcome to Season 13 🎉 We're kicking off the season from our Fairview Day Program with a special episode featuring Waves adults John, Stephanie, Hannah, Adam, Jimmy, and Eric alongside Waves CEO Staci Davis. After a two-month break, the crew is back to share life updates, talk about upcoming community events, and dive into all things summer. From favorite summer memories and movies to personal goals, dream vacations, and even summer superpowers, this conversation is full of laughter, personality, and plenty of surprises. At Waves, we believe in creating opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to share their voices, experiences, and perspectives—and this episode does exactly that. You'll get to know our co-hosts, hear what's happening in their lives, and experience the fun, authentic conversations that make Waves of Awareness unique. Whether you're part of the disability community, a family member, advocate, nonprofit supporter, or simply looking for an uplifting podcast, this episode is a great place to start. Tune in and spend some time with the voices of Waves—you never know where the conversation will go. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/