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PODCAST

DSACO: Up for Discussion

Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma

Welcome to DSACO: Up for Discussion, the official podcast of the Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma! This podcast is a space for real conversations about all things Down syndrome. Whether you"re a parent, self-advocate, sibling, educator, healthcare professional, or just someone who wants to learn more, we’re here to share stories, resources, and expert insights to educate, inspire, and connect our community.From navigating a new diagnosis to advocating for inclusion, we’ll explore

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All Episodes

43:35

We Wouldn't Change A Thing

DSACO: Up for Discussion ·

2026/10/03

What would you tell yourself on the day you learned your child had Down syndrome?In this heartfelt episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, host Sarah Soell welcomes fellow moms for a conversation about raising children with Down syndrome, finding community, and how their expectations have changed over the past two decades.Together, they reflect on early fears, meaningful friendships, and the moments their children challenged assumptions about what was possible. They also explore what “We Wouldn’t

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42:58

Where It All Began: 26 Years of DSACO's Buddy Walk

DSACO: Up for Discussion ·

2026/09/21

Twenty-six years ago, a group of dedicated DSACO families and volunteers brought the first Buddy Walk to central Oklahoma. What began as a new community event has grown into one of DSACO’s most meaningful annual traditions.In this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, Sarah speaks with members of the DSACO community who helped organize that very first walk. They reflect on how the idea began, the challenges of planning an event without social media, the community’s response, and the unforgettable

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27:18

Fundraising with Heart

DSACO: Up for Discussion ·

2026/09/16

Fundraising with Heart: How Gentry’s Gems Rallies a CommunityIn this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, host Sarah Soell talks with Elizabeth Duren, leader of Gentry’s Gems, about fundraising for the Down Syndrome Festival & 5K.Gentry’s Gems has been a top fundraising team for the past several years. Elizabeth shares the heart behind the team, the importance of telling your story, and how family, friends, businesses, and community members can work together to support DSACO’s mission.Sarah and

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26:55

Run, Walk, Volunteer: Getting Ready for the Festival...

DSACO: Up for Discussion ·

2026/09/03

The 2026 Down Syndrome Festival & 5K is quickly approaching! In this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, host Sarah Soell is joined by DSACO Program Coordinator Rylee Cole to share everything listeners need to know before the event on September 26.Rylee explains what makes the Festival & 5K such a meaningful celebration for DSACO families and the Central Oklahoma community. From the 5K and family activities to opportunities for connection and celebration, there is something for everyone—and

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41:20

Empowering the Next Generation of Self Advocates

DSACO: Up for Discussion ·

2026/08/21

In this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, we sit down with Jen Randle to explore the Oklahoma Youth Leadership Forum, also known as YLF, and the important work of the Developmental Disabilities Council of Oklahoma.YLF gives high school students with disabilities an opportunity to strengthen their leadership and self-advocacy skills, build confidence, explore life after high school, and connect with other young leaders. Jen shares what participants can expect from the program, who is eligible to

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41:28

Advancing the Future of Down Syndrome: A Conversation...

DSACO: Up for Discussion ·

2026/08/03

In this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, Sarah sits down with Michelle Sie Whitten, Co-Founder, President and CEO of the Global Down Syndrome Foundation.Michelle shares how GLOBAL is advancing research, improving healthcare and advocating for individuals with Down syndrome. They discuss the NIH INCLUDE Project, promising areas of research, the work of the Linda Crnic Institute and the Anna and John J. Sie Center, and the resources available to families, self-advocates and professionals.They also

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45:31

Empowering Every Voice

DSACO: Up for Discussion ·

2026/07/21

Advocacy starts with one voice—but together, those voices create lasting change.In this episode of DSACO Up for Discussion, Sarah Soell sits down with Wanda Felty, Assistant Director and Community Leadership & Advocacy Coordinator at the Center for Learning and Leadership (CLL) at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, for an inspiring conversation about advocacy, leadership, and empowering individuals with disabilities and their families.Whether you're a parent just beginning your

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39:35

Protecting Children & Strengthening Families with Joe...

DSACO: Up for Discussion ·

2026/07/03

Every child deserves a safe, supportive environment where they can thrive. In this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, we're joined by Joe Dorman, CEO of the Child Advocacy Center, to discuss the vital work being done to protect children, support families, and strengthen communities across Oklahoma.Joe shares what child advocacy really means, the services the Child Advocacy Center provides, and how collaboration between organizations helps create better outcomes for children and families. We also

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45:12

Running for Inclusion: Mark Bravo on the 2026 Down...

DSACO: Up for Discussion ·

2026/06/21

In this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, Sarah Soell sits down with longtime friend of DSACO, race ambassador, coach, and event emcee Mark Bravo to talk all things 2026 Down Syndrome Festival & 5K.Mark shares how he first became involved with DSACO, what keeps him coming back year after year, and why he believes this event has the power to change lives. Together, Sarah and Mark walk through everything you need to know before race day—from the 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run to the Awareness Walk and

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53:27

Swim Safety with Wyatt from British Swim School

DSACO: Up for Discussion ·

2026/06/03

In this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, we sit down with Wyatt from British Swim School to talk all about swim safety, adaptive swim lessons, and the importance of water confidence for individuals with Down syndrome.As summer begins and families spend more time around pools, lakes, and water parks, this conversation is an important reminder that water safety can truly save lives. Wyatt shares practical tips for parents, discusses how swim lessons can be adapted for different learning styles,

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22:04

Communication Is a Human Right

DSACO: Up for Discussion ·

2026/05/21

Communication is a human right, and on today’s episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, we’re taking a closer look at the upcoming Inclusive Communication Conference. We’re joined by the individuals helping bring this meaningful event to life as we discuss the inspiration behind the conference, the importance of accessible and inclusive communication, and how creating spaces where everyone has a voice can make a lasting impact.Throughout this episode, we dive into how communication goes far beyond

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26:33

Championing Inclusion with Grace Simpson | Special...

DSACO: Up for Discussion ·

2026/05/03

In this episode, we sit down with Grace Simpson from Special Olympics to talk about the power of inclusion, advocacy, and community.We dive into what Down syndrome really means, break down common misconceptions, and highlight how programs like Special Olympics are creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to thrive.What You’ll LearnWhat Special Olympics is and why it mattersA simple, real-life understanding of Down syndromeCommon myths vs. realityThe impact of

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47:35

Behind the Scenes With Our Producer!

DSACO: Up for Discussion ·

2026/04/21

Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how DSACO: Up for Discussion comes to life. In this special episode, Executive Director Sarah Soell sits down with the podcast’s producer, Adie, to talk about everything that goes into creating each episode—from brainstorming ideas to hitting publish.Listeners will learn what a podcast producer actually does, how episodes are planned and recorded, and what it takes to keep each conversation aligned with DSACO’s mission. Adie also shares favorite moments,

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24:20

AmeriCorps & Building Stronger Nonprofits

DSACO: Up for Discussion ·

2026/04/03

In this episode, we explore the powerful role AmeriCorps plays in supporting nonprofits and strengthening communities. Sarah is joined by representatives from AmeriCorps to break down how national service programs operate, what “capacity building” really means, and how organizations like DSACO benefit from these partnerships.We discuss how AmeriCorps differs from traditional volunteer programs, the types of service opportunities available, and how individuals can get involved. The conversation also

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55:41

Voices of Love: Parents Sharing the Journey of Down...

DSACO: Up for Discussion ·

2026/03/22

n this special episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, we sit down with an incredible panel of parents who share their experiences raising a loved one with Down syndrome. Each story is unique, filled with moments of growth, joy, and powerful perspective.Our panel opens up about what it was like when they first received their child’s diagnosis, the milestones that have meant the most, and the many ways their children continue to inspire and shape their families. They also share honest insights into

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44:58

Breaking Barriers: Self Advocates in College

DSACO: Up for Discussion ·

2026/03/04

In this powerful and inspiring episode, we sit down with an incredible panel of self advocates who are currently in college.They share their experiences navigating campus life, building independence, overcoming challenges, and pursuing their dreams. From first-day nerves to favorite classes, this conversation highlights what inclusion truly looks like in action.College is about growth, confidence, and opportunity — and our panel reminds us that students with Down syndrome belong in every space where

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20:26

Employed, Empowered, Included with Megan & Courtney ...

DSACO: Up for Discussion ·

2026/02/21

In this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, we continue our employment series with a real-life success story.Last episode, we introduced Megan Wilson, DSACO’s Employment Services Specialist, and discussed how employment services work through DRS contracts and individualized support.This week, we move from explanation to experience.Megan is joined by Courtney — her very first client working under contract — to share what employment looks like in action. Courtney opens up about starting her job,

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29:20

Employed, Empowered, Included with Megan

DSACO: Up for Discussion ·

2026/02/03

We’re officially kicking off Season 2 of DSACO: Up for Discussion, and we’re starting with a topic that matters deeply to individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and our community: employment.In this episode, we sit down with Megan Wilson, DSACO’s new Employment Services Specialist, to talk all things employment services, skill-building, and creating meaningful, competitive job opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome.Megan works under DRS employment contracts and plays a key role in

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23:09

The Conversations That Shape a Community

DSACO: Up for Discussion ·

2026/01/22

As we wrap up Season 1 of DSACO: Up for Discussion, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the conversations that shaped this season and the community that made it possible.This season covered the full journey of life with Down syndrome — from early childhood intervention and IEPs, to middle school and high school transitions, to adulthood, employment, health, relationships, and self-advocacy. Each episode centered on real experiences, practical resources, and the reminder that support and inclusion

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28:03

Inside DSACO'S Self Advocacy Center With Robin Kohn

DSACO: Up for Discussion ·

2026/01/03

In this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, Sarah sits down with Robin Kohn to talk all about one of DSACO’s most empowering programs — the Self-Advocacy Center (SAC).Robin shares what SAC is, who it’s designed for, and why self-advocacy is such an important skill for individuals with Down syndrome. From building confidence and communication skills to learning how to speak up for yourself, SAC helps self-advocates grow both personally and socially in a supportive, encouraging environment.Listeners

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