Secured Steps

IEP meetings can feel overwhelming for families. There are acronyms, evaluations, goals, services, timelines, and sometimes an uncomfortable feeling that everyone else at the table understands the system better than you do.In this episode of Secured Steps, Jeff is joined by Dr. Diana Fannon, an experienced special education professional and advocate whose background includes work as a teacher, school psychologist, and Director of Special Education. Through her work with Disability Ed Pros, Dr. Fannon helps parents better understand the educational system and advocate more confidently for their children. Together, Jeff and Diana discuss how families can approach the IEP process with more clarity, preparation, and confidence. The conversation draws from Diana’s years of special education advocacy and focuses on what parents can do before, during, and after the meeting to become stronger partners in the process.In this episode, we discuss:Why IEP meetings can feel so intimidating for parentsWhat families should understand before walking into the roomHow to prepare without feeling like you need to become an expert overnightThe difference between disagreement and conflictHow parents can ask better questions during the IEP processWhy goals, services, accommodations, and placement need to connect to the child’s real needsHow families can advocate firmly while preserving working relationshipsThe importance of high expectations for students with disabilitiesWhat to do when the plan looks good on paper but does not seem to be working in practiceFor many families, the IEP is one of the first major systems they have to learn to navigate. And like many disability-related systems, it can feel technical, emotional, and high-stakes all at once.At Secured Steps, we often talk about the importance of structure. That same idea applies here. When parents understand the process, prepare their questions, and know what they are trying to protect, the IEP meeting becomes less intimidating and more productive.GuestDr. Diana FannonSpecial education advocate, educator, and founder of Disability Ed Pros. Dr. Fannon’s work focuses on helping parents navigate IEPs with confidence and supporting more inclusive educational practices for students with disabilities. Listen if you are:A parent preparing for an IEP meetingA caregiver trying to better understand special education servicesA professional supporting families with children who have disabilitiesAn advocate, educator, or advisor looking for a parent-centered view of the IEP processDisclaimerThis episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, educational, financial, or individualized planning advice. Every family’s situation is unique, and families should consult the appropriate professionals for guidance specific to their child and circumstances.Connect with Diana at https://www.disabilityedpros.com/opt-in-inclusionadvocaytoolkit.Connect with Jeff at https://rockwoodwealth.com/special-needs-financial-planning/

In this episode of Secured Steps, I sit down with Daniel Hodges, JD, MHA for an important conversation about accessibility, authentic inclusion, and what it really takes to build a society that better supports people with disabilities.Daniel is a thought leader in the disability community and the President and Cofounder of Peaces of Me Foundation, a nonprofit he launched while still in law school. The foundation’s mission is to transform society through community education, innovative professional training, and meaningful connections to resources that help break the stigma surrounding disabilities of all kinds.As someone who lives with multiple disabilities himself, Daniel brings both professional insight and lived experience to this conversation. We talk about the deeper meaning of inclusion, the barriers that still exist in workplaces and communities, and why education and awareness are such critical parts of lasting change.Daniel also shares more about his own path, the work of Peaces of Me Foundation, and how each of us can play a role in creating a more accessible and inclusive world.This is a thoughtful, meaningful episode for families, professionals, advocates, and anyone who wants to better understand what authentic inclusion looks like in practice.About Daniel Hodges: Daniel Hodges, JD, MHA, is a thought leader on accessibility and authentic inclusion of people with disabilities. He is the President and Cofounder of Peaces of Me Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to transforming society through community education, innovative professional training, and connections to relevant resources that break the stigma surrounding disabilities of all kinds.Daniel founded the organization while in law school and brings a powerful blend of leadership, advocacy, and lived experience to his work. He earned his Juris Doctorate from The University of Baltimore and his Master’s in Healthcare Administration from Western Governors’ University.Connect with Daniel and Peaces of Me Foundation: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peacesofmefoundation?igshid=MTNiYzNiMzkwZA== Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PeacesOfMeFoundation?mibextid=vk8aRt Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/8qBcFK55wuRLJkYL/?mibextid=A7sQZp LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peaces-of-me-foundation/ X: https://x.com/PeacesofMeFdn?t=5aDeXvRGoJrwITeUyAr1SQ&s=09 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@peacesofmefoundation247Listen, follow, and share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Secured Steps, leave a review, and share it with someone who cares about building a more inclusive world.

In this episode of Secured Steps, Jeff Llewellyn breaks down the tax moves special needs families miss most and explains how to think more strategically about taxes throughout the year. From credits versus deductions to medical expenses, adult dependents, ABLE accounts, and trust coordination, Jeff shares practical insights to help families ask better questions and avoid costly oversights. If you care for a loved one with disabilities and want a clearer, more confident approach to tax planning, this episode is for you.  #DisabilityPlanning #TaxPlanning 

If you’re a parent of a child with special needs, saving for your own retirement can sometimes feel selfish — even risky. But what if prioritizing your financial security actually strengthens your child’s future instead of threatening it?In this episode, I unpack one of the most emotionally loaded questions families ask: how to balance retirement planning with long-term financial planning for a child with disabilities. We explore the real trade-offs, common mistakes parents make, and how an integrated strategy can protect both your independence and your child’s lifelong care needs.You’ll learn how retirement security, Special Needs Trust funding, ABLE accounts, government benefits, and estate planning all work together — not against each other. Most importantly, you’ll leave with a practical framework to help reduce guilt, increase clarity, and move forward with confidence.If you’d like more guidance on special needs financial planning, visit www.rockwoodwealth.com/snfp to explore ways we help families build secure futures. 

A special needs trust can be one of the most important tools in a disability family’s plan—but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. In this episode, I break down what a special needs trust is, how it works, and why it matters if SSI and Medicaid benefits are part of your loved one’s support system (now or in the future). You’ll walk away with a clear, plain-English understanding of the structure, the key players, the main trust types, and the practical mistakes to avoid.In this episode, we cover:What a special needs trust is (in plain English)The problem it solves: protecting eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and MedicaidHow special needs trusts work mechanically (trustee control + distribution rules)The 3 most common types of special needs trusts:Third-party special needs trustFirst-party (self-settled) special needs trustPooled special needs trustWhat a trust can pay for (and where families need to be careful)The 5 biggest mistakes that create benefit issues and family stressA simple checklist of next steps to get your plan alignedHelpful next stepIf you’re trying to make sure your trust planning fits with the rest of your financial plan—beneficiary designations, titling, ABLE accounts, benefits, and long-term family goals—you can learn more about working with my team here: www.rockwoodwealth.com/snfp

Opening an ABLE account shouldn’t feel like a research project. In this episode, I walk you through how to open an ABLE account step-by-step—from confirming eligibility, to choosing the right state plan, to completing the online application and setting up contributions so the account actually gets used.What you’ll learn in this episodeWhat an ABLE account is (and what it’s designed to do)How to choose an ABLE plan (you’re not always limited to your home state)What information you’ll need before you start the applicationThe step-by-step process to open an ABLE account onlineHelpful resourceABLE National Resource Center – State Plan Comparison Tool: https://www.ablenrc.org/compare-states/(Use this to compare fees, investment options, and features across state ABLE plans side-by-side.)Want help building the full plan?If you’d like help navigating ABLE accounts (and how they fit into your bigger financial plan—benefits, trusts, investments, cash flow, and long-term planning), you can learn more about working with my team here: www.rockwoodwealth.com/snfpSubscribe / Follow / ShareIf this episode helped, please subscribe and share it with another parent or professional who’s trying to make sense of ABLE accounts.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is one of the most important — and misunderstood — disability benefits for families. In this episode, Jeff Llewellyn explains how SSI works, who qualifies, and why age 18 is a critical planning milestone for individuals with disabilities.You’ll learn how income and asset limits apply, what changes when parental finances no longer count, and why SSI often becomes the gateway to adult Medicaid and long-term services. Jeff also covers common planning tools — including ABLE accounts and Special Needs Trusts — and explains how to avoid benefit reductions caused by In-Kind Support and Maintenance (ISM).This episode is ideal for parents, caregivers, and professionals looking for clear, practical guidance on SSI eligibility, transition planning, and long-term financial stability.

In this episode of Secured Steps, Jeff Llewellyn sits down with Brian Klazmer of Klazmer Financial Group for a deep conversation on how life and disability insurance really works for families with loved ones with special needs.We unpack the essentials — from the structure of permanent vs. term coverage to advanced strategies like second-to-die policies, funding Special Needs Trusts, insuring caregivers, and coordinating coverage with SSI/Medicaid planning. Brian brings decades of experience and a clear, practical perspective families rarely get to hear.You’ll learn:Why life insurance plays a unique role in special-needs financial planningCommon mistakes families make when selecting coverageHow to structure policies to support a Special Needs TrustThe difference between insuring parents vs. siblingsUnderwriting considerations for families navigating disabilityWhen to review, replace, or reinforce existing coverageHow life insurance integrates with your overall financial planWhether you’re a parent, a caregiver, or a professional serving families, this episode gives you the clarity and confidence you need to move forward with a safer, more sustainable plan.Learn more about the Klazmer Financial Group (www.klazmerfinancial.com) and explore Rockwood Wealth Management (www.rockwoodwealth.com/special-needs-financial-planning).

In this episode of Secured Steps, Jeff Llewellyn sits down with Stephanie Lee Jackson, founder of Practical Sanctuary to explore how the spaces we live in can help — or hinder — our nervous systems.Stephanie designs sensory-smart interiors for families, caregivers, and individuals with special needs. Together, we talk about how intentional design can reduce overwhelm, support regulation, and create calm, functional environments that truly meet your family’s needs.You’ll learn:🏡 How light, texture, layout, and color affect your nervous system🧠 Why designing with regulation in mind is essential for neurodivergent and special-needs individuals💬 Simple changes families can make to create more supportive and soothing spaces💗 How caregivers can benefit from environments that restore their energyWhether you’re a parent, professional, or planner, this conversation will help you rethink the role of your home — not just as a place to live, but as part of your care system.🔗 Learn more about Stephanie Lee Jackson:🌐 Website: https://practicalsanctuary.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/practicalsanctuary/💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanieleejacksonpracticalsanctuary/About Secured Steps:Hosted by Jeff Llewellyn, CFA®, CFP®, ChSNC®, Secured Steps is a series dedicated to helping families and professionals navigate life, money, and disability planning with clarity and confidence.Learn more at https://rockwoodwealth.com/snfp#SensoryDesign #Neurodiversity #SpecialNeedsFamilies #CaregiverWellbeing #HomeEnvironment #PracticalSanctuary #SecuredStepsPodcast #DisabilityPlanning

In this episode of the Secured Steps podcast, host Jeff Llewellyn engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Jack Hinman about the challenges faced by young adults, particularly those in the special needs community. They explore the intersection of personal and professional experiences, discussing the importance of family dynamics, developmental milestones, and the crisis of connection in today's youth. Dr. Hinman emphasizes the need for parents to encourage social skills and friendships while also addressing the significance of understanding attachment styles and increasing bandwidth for social interaction. The conversation concludes with success stories and strategies for coaching young adults to foster growth and resilience.Connect with Jack:https://engagelifenow.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-hinman-engagelifenow

In this episode of Secured Steps, host Jeff Llewellyn speaks with author Catherine Zoratti about her journey as a parent of two boys, one neurotypical and one neurodiverse. They discuss the inspiration behind her book 'Hello Saturday', the importance of finding joy in unexpected places, and the challenges of defining 'typical' in parenting. Catherine shares insights on building connections with like-minded families, the significance of advocacy for neurodiverse children, and the balancing act of meeting the needs of siblings. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-care for parents and the value of children's literature in shaping perspectives.You can purchase Hello Saturday here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FJN14NJD/Connect here:https://nonverbalkids.com/https://www.instagram.com/nonverbalkids/https://www.pinterest.com/pin/920212136370668117/

In this episode of Secured Steps, Jeff Llewellyn interviews Jennifer Gasner, an author and advocate for changing perceptions of people with disabilities. Jennifer shares her personal journey of being diagnosed with a rare neuromuscular disease at 17 and how it transformed her life. She discusses her memoir, 'My Unexpected Life: Finding Balance Beyond My Diagnosis,' and the importance of representation and understanding in the disability community. The conversation also touches on the writing process, the challenges of sharing personal stories, and advice for parents and caregivers of individuals with disabilities.Check out her book at https://www.amazon.com/My-Unexpected-Life-Finding-Diagnosis/dp/B0CCCPG1ZJ

In this episode of Secured Steps, we dive into one of the most important — and often overwhelming — parts of planning for a loved one with disabilities: housing. Whether you’re just beginning to explore options or deep into decision-making, this conversation will give you clarity on the categories of housing, how funding works, and where to turn for trusted resources in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.What You’ll Learn:The different categories of housing available for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities — from group homes and supported apartments to private pay and transitional options.How public benefits like Medicaid, Social Security, and state programs interact with housing choices.The role of private funding, insurance, and creative planning strategies.Key resources for parents and caregivers in PA and NJ.Resources Mentioned:Pennsylvania Office of Developmental Programs (ODP): https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dhsNew Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD): https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/ddd/The Arc of Pennsylvania: https://thearcpa.orgThe Arc of New Jersey: https://arcnj.orgPA Housing Finance Agency: https://www.phfa.orgNJ Housing Resource Center: https://www.njhrc.govNational Council on Independent Living: https://ncil.org

In this episode of Secured Steps, Jeff Llewellyn sits down with Jeaneen Tang, a speech-language pathologist with over two decades of experience helping children find their voice. They explore the power of early intervention tips and language development for kids, the impact of speech therapy, and why starting early can make all the difference.Jeaneen opens up about her personal journey as a speech-language pathologist and shares practical parent coaching strategies to help boost communication skills for kids—from everyday play to structured exercises. The conversation also touches on her book, Play Dumb & Sabotage, a hands-on guide for parents and caregivers looking to support child speech development at home.Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or educator, this episode offers special needs parenting tips, insights for autism parenting, and actionable ideas for building your child’s language skills.You can get your copy of Play Dumb & Sabotage here: https://a.co/d/8J7v5yc

In this episode of Secured Steps, Jeff Llewellyn speaks with John Fela, a national disability advocate and parent of a child on the autism spectrum. They discuss John's journey through disability advocacy, the challenges of raising a special needs child, the importance of community support, and the resources available for families. John shares insights on navigating housing and employment options for individuals with disabilities, emphasizing the need for belonging and connection within the community.Connect with John:www.johnfela.comLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/john-fela-0b839920X: x.com/jfelageller74Appearances: https://johnfela.com/featured/#podcast-features

In this episode of Secured Steps, Jeff Llewellyn discusses the critical concept of anchoring in special needs financial planning. He emphasizes the importance of establishing a solid foundation for future planning by taking inventory of emotional and financial needs. The conversation covers tools like the Letter of Intent, the significance of vision casting, and the necessity of assessing one's starting point in financial planning. Jeff encourages listeners to shift from a reactive mindset to a leadership role in their family's financial journey, ultimately guiding them toward a secure future for their loved ones.Connect with his team by visiting www.rockwoodwealth.com/snfp. 

In this episode, Dr. Christopher Scott Wyatt shares his personal journey as an autistic self-advocate and father of neurodiverse daughters. He discusses the impact of teachers on neurodiverse students, the implications of labeling, and the challenges of group work in education. Dr. Wyatt emphasizes the importance of diverse communication styles and the need for educators to listen to their students. He also provides insights for parents navigating the education system and highlights the significance of understanding and listening to children.Consider inviting Dr. Wyatt to speak to your organization or to appear as a guest on your podcast.https://linktr.ee/cswyattThe Autistic Me:Blog: https://www.tameri.com/autisticme/Podcast: https://autisticme.libsyn.com/ https://autisticme.libsyn.com/neurodiversity Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/autisticme/Twitter: https://twitter.com/autisticmeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CSWyattLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autisticme

In this episode of Secured Steps, Jeff Llewellyn speaks with April Ratchford, an occupational therapist and advocate for autistic individuals. They discuss the challenges of parenting an autistic child, the importance of occupational and speech therapy, and the transition to adulthood for autistic individuals. April shares her insights on the role of play in learning, the need for community support, and the advocacy efforts in Kentucky to improve resources for autistic individuals and their families.Check her out at: https://linktr.ee/adultingwithautismApparel available at: https://adulting-with-autism-shop.fourthwall.com/collections/all

In this episode of Secured Steps, host Jeff Llewellyn sits down with Ryann M. Siclari, Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA) and recipient of the Joseph B. Young Excellence in Legal Advocacy Award from Disability Rights New Jersey.Ryann brings deep insight into the world of special needs and elder law, covering critical topics including:• The differences between guardianship and less restrictive alternatives• When and how to use ABLE accounts• How to design special needs trusts that work in real life• The importance of a personalized, family-centered legal strategyWhether you're supporting a loved one with a disability or caring for aging parents, this episode is full of valuable guidance from one of the field’s most compassionate and skilled attorneys.Learn more about Ryann's practice at www.porzioplanning.com. You can connect with Jeff Llewellyn at www.rockwoodwealth.com/snfp

Choosing a trustee for a Special Needs Trust is one of the most important decisions a family can make—but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. In this episode of Secured Steps, we break down the key differences between bundled and unbundled trustee arrangements. You’ll learn how each model works, who’s responsible for what, and the pros and cons of each structure. Whether you're considering a corporate trustee, a family member, or a hybrid approach, this conversation will help you make an informed decision that protects your loved one and aligns with your planning goals. 

What does inclusive higher education really look like in action? In this episode of Secured Steps, we shine a spotlight on Georgian Court University’s Transition and Career Studies (TCS) Program—an empowering path for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to experience college life, build independence, and prepare for meaningful careers.Joining us are two of the program’s key leaders: Dr. Sharlene Smith, Operational Director of the TCS Program, whose expertise spans adult education, autism, and applied behavior analysis, and Tammy Laverty, the program’s Campus Life Coordinator and Admissions Counselor, who brings a rich background in education and technology to her working creating a vibrant, inclusive student experience.Together, they share how the TCS Program supports not only academic growth but social and emotional development—giving students the tools they need to thrive in college and beyond.To learn more about inclusive postsecondary programs, visit thinkcollege.net. For details about Georgian Court University’s TCS Program, visit georgian.edu/tcs. 

 In this episode of Secured Steps, we dive into one of the most overlooked but powerful Social Security benefits available to families supporting a loved one with a disability—the Disabled Adult Child benefit, or DAC. Host Jeff Llewellyn from Rockwood Wealth Management breaks down what DAC is, who qualifies, and why traditional retirement planning strategies often miss the mark when a disabled loved one is involved. You’ll also learn how to apply for DAC, what common pitfalls to avoid, and how this benefit can dramatically impact long-term financial security. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, this episode is a must-listen. 

Government benefits are some of the most important—and confusing—resources available to families supporting a loved one with disabilities. In this episode of Secured Steps, host Jeff Llewellyn of Rockwood Wealth Management breaks down the alphabet soup of programs like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and Community Waivers in plain English.You'll learn:Who qualifies for SSI and how it's calculatedHow earned and unearned income affects monthly benefitsThe ins and outs of the Disabled Adult Child (DAC) benefit under SSDIWhy Medicaid waivers matter and how to avoid losing eligibilityCommon pitfalls to watch out for—and how to avoid themWhether your child is nearing age 18 or already navigating adult services, this episode will help you take clearer, more confident steps forward.📍 For more resources and guidance, visit rockwoodwealth.com/snfp.

If you’re caring for a loved one with special needs, you’ve probably heard about ABLE accounts—but do you know how they actually work, or how they can protect eligibility for benefits like SSI and Medicaid?In this episode of Secured Steps, Jeff Llewellyn of Rockwood Wealth Management breaks down everything you need to know about ABLE accounts—Achieving a Better Life Experience accounts—and how they fit into a comprehensive special needs financial plan.You'll learn:Who qualifies for an ABLE account (including age and disability criteria)2025 contribution limits and how the ABLE to Work provision expands savings potentialWhat counts as a Qualified Disability Expense (QDE)How ABLE accounts interact with SSI and Medicaid rules—including the $100,000 balance limitKey differences between ABLE accounts and Special Needs Trusts, and how they complement each otherCommon mistakes to avoid Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, this episode will equip you with practical guidance to make the most of one of the most powerful tools in special needs planning.

Secured Steps is the podcast that helps parents, grandparents, and caretakers confidently navigate the financial planning process for individuals with disabilities. Hosted by Jeff Llewellyn of Rockwood Wealth Management — and a parent who’s walked this path — each episode delivers clear, practical guidance on topics including government benefits, special needs trusts, and budgeting, ABLE accounts, and investment management. Featuring expert guests in law, education, and community services, Secured Steps gives you the tools to build a secure and sustainable future, one step at a time. https://rockwoodwealth.com/special-needs-financial-planning/