Ep 138: Josh Muñoz on Supporting Independent Living for People with IDD

Associate Director of Public Policy at First Place AZ, Josh Muñoz discusses his work supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) through independent living, tailored supports, and intentional community integration. He shares his journey from studying psychology to working in applied behavior analysis (ABA), supporting individuals with high support needs, and eventually moving into systems-level policy work focused on improving outcomes for people with IDD. Josh emphasizes the importance of consumer‑controlled housing, employment support, community life, early inclusion of neurotypical and neurodiverse children, and addressing social determinants of health—such as housing, transportation, and community connection—to reduce health disparities. He highlights concerns about future Medicaid cuts, the need for accessible voting, and the critical role of friendship and community in reducing isolation and improving quality of life for people with IDD.