The DirectLine

In this episode of DirectLine by Lighthouse Cove, Katrina Sacay sits down with Ethan McPeak small business owner, longtime Lighthouse Cove board member, volunteer, and Booster, to talk about the personal experiences that shaped his connection to the direct support profession.Ethan shares how growing up with parents who worked in the developmental disabilities field, along with having a sister with profound disabilities, gave him a deep appreciation for the life-changing work of DSPs. He reflects on how those experiences led him to serve on Lighthouse Cove’s board, volunteer at events, and invest in the organization’s mission through giving.

In this second episode of The DirectLine financial fitness series from Lighthouse Cove, we dive into one of the most important pieces of your financial life, your credit score.Joined by Suzanna Humbert from First Financial Bank, we break down what a credit score really is and why it matters more than you might think. From understanding FICO vs. Vantage scores, to how credit utilization and payment history impact your score, this episode makes credit feel simple, practical, and actionable.You’ll also learn:How to check your credit the right way (and what actually matters)Why closing accounts or paying off loans can temporarily lower your scoreSmart strategies to build or rebuild credit from scratchHow secured cards and credit-building loans workHow to protect yourself from fraud, identity theft, and credit damageWhat’s really showing up on your credit report and how to fix itWhether your credit is strong, recovering, or just getting started, this conversation gives you the tools to take control of your financial future with confidence.Suzanna Humbert has dedicated over two decades to empowering individuals on their journey to financial health and security. With more than 20 years of experience in the financial industry, Suzanna is recognized for her passion in guiding clients through all facets of personal finance—from building strong savings habits, to navigating debt management, retirement planning, and beyond. Suzanna believes that true empowerment begins with knowledge and access, working to provide the resources, tools, and compassionate support needed to help each person reach their unique goals. She has helped countless individuals and families achieve financial stability and confidence.Contact Suzanna: mailto:[email protected]

What happens when organizations intentionally invest in their people?In this episode of The Direct Line, host Becky Watson sits down with Amy Schneider, Executive Director of Wynn-Reeth to discuss the power of professional development, meaningful partnerships, and creating opportunities for staff to grow.Amy shares her journey into the disability services field, why Wynn-Reeth prioritizes leadership development and networking opportunities, and the impact programs like Leadership Launchpad, the Summit, and the DSP Recognition event have had on her team. From building confidence and strengthening workplace relationships to fostering community connections across agencies, this conversation highlights how investing in people leads to stronger organizations and better outcomes for those we support.Whether you're a DSP, supervisor, executive leader, or advocate, you'll walk away inspired to create opportunities that energize, engage, and empower your team.🎙️ Topics include:The value of investing in staff beyond traditional trainingBuilding confidence through leadership developmentThe importance of networking and community connectionsCreating a culture of growth and engagementHow partnerships can spark innovation and opportunity in the IDD fieldListen now and discover why empowering people is one of the most important investments an organization can make.Chapters00:00 The Journey to Disability Field07:00 The Role of Community and Connection14:55 The Future and Exciting Opportunities

The conversation covers the experiences and insights of DSPU graduates from the Medina County Career Center. It includes discussions on their favorite parts of the program, the e-badges and CIP certification, and their recommendations for others interested in helping individuals with disabilities. The graduates also highlight the flexibility and employability that comes with the DSPU-1 and CIP certification.TakeawaysCommunity experienceFlexibility and employabilityChapters00:00 - Introduction to the DSPU graduation event at Medina County00:25 - The importance of student-intern relationships in DSPU01:08 - Student Michaela shares her internship at Spokes Cafe and experiences01:49 - Emily discusses her internships at Medina Living Unlimited and Creatively Reimagined02:09 - Aubrey talks about her internship at Windfall Schools02:23 - Students highlight their favorite parts of DSPU, emphasizing relationship building and community activities02:51 - Key lessons learned: community outings like zoo visits and safety education through e-badges03:15 - Certification benefits: DSP-1 and CIP certification's role in job flexibility and mobility03:37 - Students share future plans, including college or working with individuals with disabilities04:14 - Why DSPU is recommended for those passionate about helping others, especially with disabilities05:09 - Closing remarks about the value of DSPU certifications in career advancement05:14 - Final thoughts and recording confirmation

In this inspiring episode of The Direct Line, Katrina Sacay sits down with advocate, speaker, and Lighthouse Cove board member Gwen Harshaw to talk about her family’s journey after her son Zayne was diagnosed with autism at age four.After being told Zayne might never read or live independently, Gwen and her family chose hope over limitation. What followed was an extraordinary journey through music, advocacy, and inclusion. Today, Zayne is an award-winning professional guitarist and founder of the band Blue Spectrum, using music to change perceptions about autism and disability.Gwen shares powerful stories about parenting through uncertainty, discovering hidden strengths, the importance of person-centered support, and why diagnoses should never define a person’s future. The conversation also explores the impact of music therapy, community inclusion, open mic programs for people with disabilities, and the mission behind Lighthouse Cove.This episode is a moving reminder that every person deserves the opportunity to pursue purpose, passion, and connection.About Band Together Central OhioBand Together Central Ohio (BTCO) is a monthly autism-friendly open mic in Gahanna, Ohio focused on creativity, community, and inclusion.Inspired by her son Zayne’s early experiences navigating traditional open mic environments, Gwen Harshaw created a space where performers of all abilities feel welcomed and supported.Through a partnership with the Autism Society of Pittsburgh and their Band Together program, BTCO launched in August 2022, bringing this inclusive model to Central Ohio.Tagline: Open Mic. Open Mind. Open Heart.Event DetailsBTCO is held on the second Sunday of each month at Gatsby’s Bar & Grill.The event welcomes musicians, poets, comedians, and performers of all experience levels. It is designed to be a sensory-aware, judgment-free environment that supports both first-time and experienced performers.Why It MattersBTCO is more than an open mic. It is helping build a more inclusive arts community by removing barriers and creating opportunities for neurodiverse individuals to share their talents and stories.Gwen’s WorkGwen Harshaw is also a consultant with the International Council on Development and Learning.ICDL is dedicated to advancing human development and is best known as the home of the DIR®/DIRFloortime® model, an evidence-based, relationship-centered approach used to support autistic individuals and others with developmental differences.Learn More and ConnectContact Gwen Harshaw: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/bandtogethercentralohio/Local coverage:Uniquely Gahanna – Resident SpotlightBand Together Central Ohio: Autism-friendly open mic held monthly

Join us in this episode for an engaging discussion on simple, effective ways to manage your finances, clear misconceptions about budgeting, and boost your financial health with practical tips from work life specialist Susanna Humbert. Discover tools like the envelope system, the 50-30-20 rule, and actionable steps to make budgeting less intimidating and more empowering.Key topics covered:The importance of budgeting and common misconceptionsThe envelope system: digital vs. cashThe zero-based budget and pay-yourself-first strategiesUnderstanding and applying the 50-30-20 ruleTips to track spending without complicated appsSetting financial goals and the importance of saving for emergenciesHow to assess and reduce unnecessary subscriptionsPersonal stories about overcoming financial hurdles and building creditResources available from First Financial Bank for free financial adviceThe upcoming focus on boosting credit and homeownership opportunitiesTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and setting the stage for financial empowerment02:00 - Technical challenges and solutions for sharing presentations04:00 - Guest introduction and overview of Susanna Humbert's role06:00 - Navigating online tools and resources for budgeting09:00 - The significance of accessible financial education12:00 - Breakdown of the budgeting topics and upcoming series14:00 - Introduction to the envelope and zero-based budgeting methods16:00 - Practical tips on tracking spending with digital tools18:00 - The 50-30-20 rule explained22:00 - The importance of savings and handling unexpected expenses30:00 - Creating realistic budgets and setting achievable goals32:00 - How spending habits can be identified and improved36:00 - Strategies for reducing unnecessary expenses40:00 - The power of saying no and practicing financial discipline44:00 - Tips for boosting credit scores and lowering insurance costs48:00 - Resources from First Financial Bank for homeownership and credit52:00 - Wrap-up, next steps, and future series previewhttps://www.bankatfirst.com/personal.html

In this inspiring episode of The DirectLine podcast from Lighthouse Cove, we introduce Destiny Campbell, Lighthouse Cove’s new DSP-U Program Coordinator, whose journey reflects the heart of our mission and the future of the I/DD field. From her beginnings in recreation management to discovering her passion for inclusion and advocacy, Destiny shares how taking a chance led her to a deeply rewarding career.We explore the impact of the DSPU program as a powerful workforce pipeline, offering students real-world experience, mentorship, and the skills to succeed in any path they choose. Destiny reflects on her experience as a skill mentor, the importance of advocacy, and why this field matters now more than ever.Whether you’re a student, professional, or simply curious about making a difference, this episode is a reminder to step outside your comfort zone, embrace new opportunities, and—most importantly—just do the thing.What is DSP-U? DSP-U, proudly facilitated and brought to you by Lighthouse Cove is an educational program dedicated to preparing high school seniors and adult learners for rewarding careers in the Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities field as Direct Support Professionals.Students complete 60 hours of classroom instruction (Lighthouse Cove Certificate of Initial Proficiency), paired alongside 100 hours of internship experiences with I/DD providers. In addition, students demonstrate skills in specific competency areas through the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals’ (NADSP) E-Badge Academy.→ Accreditation & Recognition:→ Nationally recognized→ Accredited by Ohio's Department of Education→ Serves as an alternative pathway to high school graduation, substituting traditional testing requirements and adding to earned credits.☎ 📧 If interested in learning more about DSP-U, please contact us for more information!Destiny Campbell DSP-U Program [email protected]

A recent discussion highlighted Ohio's leadership in implementing universal changing stations, a significant step in enhancing health measures. This local news segment, featured on nbc4 columbus, showcased how legislators, including Governor DeWine, were presented with a demonstration of these essential universal changing station facilities, setting a precedent for other states.Our Executive Director Bethany Toledo recently appeared on Out N About Columbus to share the story behind Lighthouse Cove. In this segment, Bethany talks about why Lighthouse Cove was created, our mission, and how programs like DSP-U are empowering Direct Support Professionals and making a meaningful impact in the Columbus community. This educational video highlights Ohio's leadership in implementing the universal changing station initiative across the united states, as discussed with the house of representatives. This is a local news update.Paul Jarvis - Executive Director of the Ohio DD CouncilBethany Toledo - Executive Director of Lighthouse Cove, can be reached at [email protected] more about Lighthouse cove here:https://lighthousecove.org/

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