Tuesday, July 8, 2025
Water Prairie

Disability advocacy

Episode #123: Can Your Child Become a STRONG SELF-ADVOCATE by Age 10?

Tonya The Water Prairie Chronicles Podcast airs new episodes every Friday at Noon EST! Find the full directory at waterprairie.com/listen.

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96. Is Your Child’s Potential Being Limited? How Advocating for a Child With Special Needs Makes a Difference!

In this interview, Tonya Wollum, the host of the Water Prairie Chronicles, chats with Latisha Anderson about the challenges and triumphs of raising a child with a disability. Latisha shares her perspective on how parents can empower their children to overcome limitations and setbacks. Latisha shares some of the setbacks she has faced in her own life in addition to having a learning disability, and she speaks of her role today as the parent of a child with special needs. Here are the key takeaways:
— Don’t perpetuate limitations: Instead of focusing on what a child cannot do, emphasize what they can do.
— View setbacks as learning experiences: When a child encounters a challenge, reframe it as an opportunity to learn and grow.
— Be your child’s advocate: Don’t hesitate to question or challenge professionals if you disagree with their recommendations.
— Collaborate with professionals: Work together with professionals to create the best possible environment for your child’s success.
— Foster a strong and independent mindset: Encourage your child to be their own advocate and to believe in themselves.

IMPORTANT NOTE: This conversation does touch on some mature themes, so please use your discretion if you have little ones listening along.

Connect with Latisha: Website: https://accf.coach/

Order Latisha’s book, Embrace Your UGLY: https://amzn.to/4dwLGJe
(** As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases. **)

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Music Used:
“LazyDay” by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Artist: http://audionautix.com/

Latisha’s Bio:
Latisha Anderson is an experienced Master Mindset Coach who has helped countless individuals, corporations, and groups transform their lives. Her expertise lies in providing her clients with the necessary tools and resources to evolve and achieve their goals. With her guidance, clients can develop a positive mindset and gain the confidence to overcome any obstacle. Latisha was diagnosed in Kindergarten with a Learning Disability, and she was in SLD until she graduated high school.

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Episode #73: Navigating Mobility Challenges: From Childhood to Coaching

Show Notes:

In this insightful interview, we sit down with Nathan Gutierrez, a remarkable individual with spina bifida, to delve into his journey of living with a mobility disability. Nathan’s candid sharing takes us through his childhood experiences, family support, education, healthcare insights, and his inspiring path to independence. Join us as we explore his triumphs over challenges, his engagement in sports and social activities, and his valuable advice for parents and individuals facing similar situations.

🔹 Childhood and Family Support: Discover how Nathan’s parents nurtured his independence from a young age, empowering him to overcome obstacles and actively participate in daily life.

🔹 Educational Experiences: Gain insights into Nathan’s education within mainstream schools, his perspective on effective communication, and the significance of self-advocacy and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

🔹 Healthcare and Transition to Adulthood: Learn about Nathan’s proactive approach to maintaining bladder health and preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs). Explore his journey from childhood to adulthood and the importance of gradually involving children in their healthcare routines.

🔹 Sports and Social Life: Dive into Nathan’s engaging experiences with wheelchair basketball, youth sports, and coaching programs. Discover how these activities not only contributed to his physical well-being but also enriched his social interactions and self-confidence.

🔹 Tips for Parents and Individuals: Nathan shares invaluable advice for parents, emphasizing the significance of promoting independence, creative problem-solving, and collaborative approaches to managing mobility challenges.

🔹 Wheel Life Coaching: Nathan’s latest venture, “Wheel Life Coaching,” is dedicated to helping individuals and families with mobility disabilities navigate their unique journeys. Learn how Nathan’s coaching aims to simplify information, provide tailored solutions, and empower individuals to achieve their aspirations.

Join us for this enlightening conversation, as Nathan’s story reminds us of the power of determination, family support, and the unwavering spirit to thrive despite life’s challenges. Don’t miss out on this heartwarming and informative discussion – watch now!

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Connect with Nathan:

Website: wheellifecoaching.com

Instagram: @wheellife_coach

Connect with Us: https://linktr.ee/waterprairie

Support this channel: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/waterprairie

Music Used:

“LazyDay” by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Artist: http://audionautix.com/

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Episode #56: Building a Supportive Community for Individuals with Down Syndrome

Show Notes:

In this episode, we take a tour of the new location for Gigi’s Playhouse Raleigh, a non-profit organization that provides support, resources, and programs for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. We speak with volunteers and staff to learn more about the impact Gigi’s Playhouse has on the Down syndrome community. Additionally, we sit down with Michelle and Matthew Schwab, advocates for Down syndrome, to discuss a range of topics related to raising a child with Down syndrome, including medical care, education, and social interactions. Join us for an informative and inspiring conversation about the beauty of Down syndrome and the importance of building a supportive community.

Connect with Matthew:

Website: https://www.matthewschwabspeaks.com/

Connect with Us: https://linktr.ee/waterprairie

Support this channel: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/waterprairie

MOTHERS DAY BOOK BUNDLE GIVEAWAY!

Grab your chance to win 2 signed books about Sofia Sanchez, a teen actress, model, and advocate for Down syndrome!

Go to https://waterprairie.com/giveaway for details!

Music Used: “LazyDay” by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Artist: http://audionautix.com/

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